Ōakura Bay

Ōakura Bay is a horseshoe-shaped bay at the mouth of the Whangaruru Harbour. Sheltered by several outlying islands, the bay is popular for swimming, kayaking, boating and other water based activities. Ōakura Bay is generally safe for swimming although beach users should be careful if there are waves present. When the beach has swell, large breaking waves, strong currents and sudden changes in water depth are potential hazards for beachgoers. The severity of these hazards changes with the weather and sea conditions, as well as the rise and fall of the tide. An outgoing and low tide are generally the most dangerous times for swimming at this beach. As the coastline is quite exposed, sea and weather conditions can change quickly and without warning, so you need to be aware of this. There is no Lifeguard Service, so all water users should exercise caution when entering the water for any activity.