Oakura combines a beach, cultural history and opportunities for walks in a bush setting. Offshore rock reefs lie at the southern end of Oakura Beach; Te Koru Pā and Matekai Park add other points of interest. When choosing a destination, it’s worth looking beyond the beach: the coast, Pā and wetland each reveal a different side of the town.
Beach, Views and Coast
Oakura Beach is a sandy beach and is particularly suited to families and beginner surfers. Surf lifesavers patrol the beach in summer; check the current patrol times before your visit. The offshore rock reefs lie at the southern end of the beach and form a distinctive part of the coastal landscape. Swimming and surfing at the beach are also accessible from Corbett Park Recreation Reserve.
Corbett Park Recreation Reserve has a path leading to a viewpoint on the hill, with views from there over Oakura Beach and the town. Walks along the foreshore can take you as far as Back Beach. The reserve therefore offers both an elevated view and the opportunity to experience the coast along the foreshore.
Walking Trails and Wetland in Matekai Park
Matekai Park offers walking opportunities in a bush setting; its location connects the town of Oakura with the beach. Three grass paths branch off from the loop track. Rustic bridges cross the wetland between the upper and lower paths. This wetland provides habitat for several rare bird species and has been classified as an area of national significance. Dogs may be off leash on the loop track. As local rules can change, check the current regulations before your walk.
Culture and Other Activities
Te Koru Pā is a Category 1 historic site. The place has cultural, traditional and spiritual significance for the Ngāti Tairi hapū. Those looking for a cultural point of interest alongside the beach and park trails will find a distinct part of what Oakura has to offer here.
The Oakura Boardriders Club provides children with disabilities a safe and positive surfing experience. If this activity is important to your travel plans, check participation options directly with the club in advance.
Shearer Reserve has a well-equipped playground and a skatepark. As the condition of such facilities can change, check before your visit. According to the local description, the annual New Year’s Day Carnival at Oakura Beach attracts thousands and raises money for the Surf Life Saving Club. Before your trip, check whether it is taking place on your visit date.
In the wider destination of New Plymouth District
The wider destination of New Plymouth District has other regional attractions. The Coastal Walkway is 13.2 km long and follows the coast from Pioneer Park at Port Taranaki to the eastern side of Bell Block Beach. Puke Ariki has three permanent exhibition galleries covering the region’s history, taonga and natural world. Admission to all areas of the museum is free; check the current admission policy before your visit. Alongside Oakura’s beach and park trails, the district also offers a coastal route and exhibitions about history, taonga and nature.
Discover more destinations: Hillsborough, New Plymouth, Egmont Village.
Go to the wider travel overview: New Plymouth District.
