Oruawharo – commonly known as Medland’s after the early settler family is the iconic New Zealand sweeping white sand beach with surf for the enthusiast or body-boarder.

The Southern end has a DOC campground neighboured by a creek. Cross the foot bridge onto Primrose road where there some more interesting baches. This is also the start of the Kowhai track over to Rosalie Bay.

Boats can be launched from this end of the beach but this is only possible with a 4WD. Keep an eye out for soft sand, tides and changes in the creek.

At the Northern end, you’ll find a pohutukawa and nikau lined headland with the whitest of sand and a stunning swimming spot on a calm day.

In the centre you’ll find Memory Rock, climb up for the perfect look out and to the right you’ll discover beautiful mermaid pools.

Ecology

Oruawharo Medlands ecovision community group work hard to protect nesting native birds on this stunning stretch of coast. You’ll spot Dotterels and Oyster catchers at the tide mark. Please follow the dog walking rules.

Photo credit: Brook Sabin (Stuff, NZ)