Wairau Outlet

The Wairau outlet provides boat access to the Milford cruising club berths via the channel. At the seaward end of the outlet, a small 20m sheltered sand beach is boarded by a concrete barrier and a rock breakwater at the eastern end. The gently sloping beach has minimal tide movement and no surf. There is a major hazard from the channel with any boat movements in and out of the marina. Rock oyster shells on the rocks and buried in the sand present a hazard to anyone swimming here or playing on the rocks. Strong tidal currents are possible from the outlet. You shouldn't use inflatable toys here as the strong offshore wind can push you out of your depth quickly. Lots of parking, changing rooms, showers, playground, large reserve with shade trees, and picnic tables are available at the beachfront.