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MATARANGI: WHERE EVERYTHING YOU NEED IS A BAREFOOT STROLL AWAY

Matarangi is made for those cruisy, no-hurry, barefoot holiday days. Whether you're here for a weekend or a few weeks, everything you need is just a short stroll away — beach, coffee, ice cream, golf, tennis, playgrounds, wildlife, boat ramp, even a Four Square!

With wide golden sands, a beautiful estuary, and room for everyone, it’s a spot where families return year after year — and for good reason.

Here are some of our favourite easy adventures in Matarangi, all just minutes from the beach.

🌊 1. Swim at the beach

The beach at Matarangi stretches 4.5km out in a gentle curve, offering different vibes depending on the swell. On calm days, it's perfect for stand-up paddleboarding or a refreshing swim. When the surf picks up, the waves are just right for bodyboarding or a mellow surf — ideal for beginners and casual riders. The wide open space means there’s room for everyone.

🐚 2. Check out the rock pools at Greys Beach

At low tide, head to the rocks at the southern end of Greys Beach and see what you can spot — starfish, tiny fish, crabs, and colourful shells. Great for kids (or adults who still love rock pooling).

🚤 3. Explore around the boat ramp

The boat ramp is a fun spot to watch the action — boats coming and going, fishing, or just exploring the rock edges nearby. There’s always something happening, especially in summer.  It's a nice spot to see the sunset too!

🎣 4. Try some beach fishing

Whether you're an early riser or more of a sunset fisher, Kūaotunu Beach is a great spot to cast a line. You might hook kahawai or snapper — or just enjoy the peace and quiet with your toes in the sand. Keep an eye out for others fishing off the beach or near the rocks at either end.

🌉 5. Jump off one of 2 bridges!

If you're up for it, join the locals and jump off the bridge near the Kūaotunu Campground or the village end. Best done at high tide and a classic holiday activity - summer for sure and winter if you're really brave

🏄‍♀️ 6. Surf - or paddleboard if it's flat...

On a good day, there’s a legendary but elusive surf break near the Black Jack rocks. If the waves are quiet, a paddleboard is perfect for cruising the coastline and taking in the view from the water.

7. Hunt for treasures at the Black Jack rocks

When the tide is low, my favourite activity is to walk along the beach to the rocky point at the Black Jack end. You might spot pieces of jasper, quartz and maybe even amethyst tucked in the cracks and tidepools. After a big storm, you'll see seaweed and other ocean debris pushed right up to the shore. If you look really carefully you may find some large chunks of kauri gum! It looks just like a rock but it's super light-weight and smells kinda resiny - a proper kiwi treasure!

🍦 8. Grab an ice cream from the general store

The Kūaotunu General Store is a classic stop — they’ve got all the essentials, and they don’t muck around when it comes to proper scoops of ice cream. A must after the beach - try the Kūaotunu Killer for a challenge!!

9. Visit the playground and sports area

Just across the road from the beach is a great little playground, plus a tennis court, basketball hoop, and a big grassy field — ideal for a kickaround or a run-around with the kids. It’s an easy way to burn off some energy (or that ice cream).

🍕 10. Eat at Luke’s Kitchen

Woodfired pizza, cold drinks, and a view of the sea. Luke’s Kitchen is a Kūaotunu institution, whether you’re after a chill lunch or an easy dinner to wrap up the day. People from all over the mandel come to Luke's for a feed but the lucky people of Kūaotunu get to wander in from their bach - what a treat!

Quick tip - if you don't like queues, either send someone down to queue up while you get ready, or go around 3.30 - 4, before the crowds

Did I miss something???

Is this your happy place too? Lemme know if I missed something!

 

hello@ourhappyplace.co.nz

CHECK US OUT

Take a look at the K-town gear we have here!

We have 3 designs to capture the essence of Kūaotunu - fishing on the rocks, an ocean sunrise and the stunning blue water.

Great gift to take the beach home with you - without the mess of sand!

Shop Kūaotunu here
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