Mangawahai harbour's scenery is dominated by dramatic sand dunes bordered by pohutukawa trees, New Zealand's iconic Christmas Tree. The beach is perfect for swimming, diving, fishing and boating. The Mangawahai Museum is minutes away, providing visitors a glimpse of the early European settlers lifestyle.

Sand minning began in Mangawhai in the 1930's. From 1978-1983 the harbour was closed due to collapsed dunes. The Mangawahai Restoration Society convinced an Environment Court to stop issuing new mining licences in 2004. Restoration work on the harbour continues to improve the stability of the area.

A combination test for E.coli and Enterococci bacteria is used at this location.

The description above was copied from or heavily based on Swim Guide, with permission.

More Information

• Swim Guide - Weather and water quality for Mangawhai Harbour and 8,000 other beaches.