Kairakau Beach

Kairakau is a little bit different to other Central Hawke’s Bay beaches, the settlement is tucked in under big looming cliffs, and the beach peeks out to greet you as you drive in past the Lagoon.

The grassy beachfront dips down to a short foreshore with amazing scenery, several rocky islands just off the shore, and big expansive views from one end of the beach to the other.

Kairakau has a close beach community with long term residents as well as a very popular camping ground and great parking for day trippers. Swimming, surfcasting, diving, or just sitting and soaking up the sun.

At low tide its worth taking a walk to ‘Waterfall Bay’ at the north end of the beach to see the waterfall, and if you are interested in fishing, there’s a highly contested fishing competition each year too.

The drive to Kairakau is an easy 30mins from Waipawa, or an hour from Havelock North. It is a beautiful drive overlooking the river and rolling countryside.

We highly recommend a stop at the Patangata Pub on your way home for a cold drink.