Matauri Bay Travel Guide

Matauri Bay is a linear settlement clustered along the beachfront and the small road that runs behind it; holiday houses and a few local services sit near the sand, with quiet residential areas spreading up the surrounding slopes. Most visitors base themselves right on the bay for beach access or stay in nearby Kerikeri or Bay of Islands towns for more facilities.

Costs: Expect modest daily costs that vary widely by season and accommodation. - Self-catering holiday houses are common; expect higher prices at peak summer and for nearby Bay of Islands accommodation.

Safety: Generally safe - The village is quiet and safe by day; take standard care on the water as currents and weather can change quickly.

Best Time: December - March - Summer brings the warmest, clearest conditions for swimming, snorkelling and diving.

Matauri Bay sits on the east coast of the Far North, about 30 km north of Kerikeri and just north of the Bay of Islands, with more than a kilometre of white sand and clear water. The setting is sheltered beaches, low coastal headlands and holiday homes clustered around the shore.

The bay has deep historical roots: some of the earliest Polynesian navigators landed here and the area was an early point of contact with European missionaries such as Samuel Marsden in 1814. Local marae remain important community and cultural centres for Ngāpuhi hapū.

Today Matauri Bay is a low-key summer destination used by snorkelers, divers, surfers and holidaymakers; facilities are modest and many visitors come expecting a relaxed beach experience rather than a resort town.

Visitors come for the long sandy beach, clear swimming and shore-based snorkeling, plus access to the Cavalli Islands and the Rainbow Warrior wreck for diving. It’s ideal for people who want quiet beaches, coastal walks and a chance to experience local Māori culture in a rural setting. Use Matauri Bay as a relaxed base while exploring the wider Northland coast and the Bay of Islands.

Matauri Bay is best in summer for swimming and diving, while winter is cooler and noticeably wetter. Shoulder seasons can be pleasant but variable.

Matauri Bay is reached by road from the main Northland towns; the nearest airports and tourist centres are within an hour or so. A car is the most convenient way to arrive and explore the area.

• By Air: Kerikeri Airport (KKE): Kerikeri Airport is the closest regional airport (about a 30-40 minute drive). From there hire a car or arrange a transfer; shuttle fares vary and should be checked with operators.
• By Road from Kerikeri or Paihia: Drive north from Kerikeri (around 30 km) or from Paihia in the Bay of Islands (about 50-60 minutes by car). Roads are sealed but narrow in places; many visitors drive themselves or use a local transfer service.
• By Boat: Day boat trips and private charters to the Cavalli Islands and dive sites operate from ports in the Bay of Islands and nearby harbours; operators run seasonal services and charters rather than scheduled ferries.

Matauri Bay is compact and easy to explore on foot, but a car is the most practical way to reach neighbouring sights and towns. Boat trips are the way to access offshore islands and dive sites.

• Walking: The beach and immediate headlands are best explored on foot; there are no long urban walking networks but short coastal walks and secluded coves are within easy walking distance.
• Car hire and driving: Hiring a car is recommended for flexibility to visit Kerikeri, Paihia and local attractions; parking in the village is informal but generally available at the beach.
• Boat tours and charters: Arrange boat trips from the Bay of Islands area to dive, snorkel or visit the Cavalli Islands; divers typically book with operators based in the Bay of Islands or nearby ports.
• Taxis and transfers: Taxis and private transfers can be arranged from Kerikeri and Paihia but services are limited and should be pre-booked, especially outside the peak season.

Eating options in Matauri Bay are limited to small local cafés, takeaways and the self-catered kitchens found in holiday homes; stock up in Kerikeri for a wider choice. Many visitors bring groceries and prepare meals themselves while enjoying the beach.

Nightlife is minimal - expect quiet evenings with a few local spots open seasonally. For pubs, restaurants and livelier evening options head to Kerikeri or Paihia.

Shopping in Matauri Bay is limited to small local stores and basic supplies; for groceries, boutique shops, galleries and weekend markets drive to Kerikeri or the larger Bay of Islands towns.