The Tutukaka Coast by Campervan: Beaches and the Poor Knights Islands

Quick summary: The Tutukaka Coast is a string of beautiful bays and beaches just 30 km north-east of Whangārei, and one of the most rewarding detours on a Northland campervan or motorhome trip. A winding coastal road links the estuary at Ngunguru, the marina at Tutukaka, the sheltered half-moon of Matapouri and the walk to Whale Bay, with Sandy Bay’s surf and the long footbridge at Whananaki further on. Offshore lie the Poor Knights Islands, one of the world’s great dive and snorkelling sites.

At a glance
Distance from Whangārei	Around 30 km to Tutukaka
Driving time	Around 35 minutes
Suggested time	1–2 nights
Road	Sealed, hilly and winding along the coast
Key stops	Ngunguru, Tutukaka, Matapouri, Whale Bay, Sandy Bay, Whananaki
Signature experiences	Diving and snorkelling at the Poor Knights, coastal walks, beaches
Overnight options	Holiday parks and campgrounds along the coast
Best for	Beach lovers, divers, snorkellers and families

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Why make the detour to the Tutukaka Coast?

Because it’s a classic Northland coastline without the crowds of the Bay of Islands. The road winds over headlands and drops into one bay after another, each with its own character: estuaries, white-sand coves framed by pōhutukawa, surf beaches and rocky points. And the boat trips from Tutukaka marina to the Poor Knights Islands are among the best marine experiences in New Zealand.

What are the best stops on the Tutukaka Coast?

Stop	Distance from Whangārei	Time to allow	What’s there
Ngunguru	Around 25 km	30 min	Estuary village with a sandspit
Tutukaka	Around 30 km	Half a day to overnight	Marina, boat trips, lighthouse walk
Matapouri	Around 37 km	1–2 hours	Sheltered white-sand bay
Whale Bay	Around 39 km	1 hour	Short bush walk to a secluded beach
Sandy Bay	Around 45 km	30 min to 1 hr	Surf beach
Whananaki	Around 55 km	1 hour	Estuary and a long footbridge

Ngunguru and Tutukaka

Ngunguru sits on a calm estuary, with a sandspit across the river mouth. A few minutes on, Tutukaka’s marina is the departure point for dive and snorkelling trips to the Poor Knights Islands, and a walk leads out to the lighthouse at Kukutauwhao Island at low tide.

Matapouri and Whale Bay

Matapouri is a perfect curve of white sand in a sheltered bay, ideal for swimming. From the road just north of it, a short walk through native bush leads down to Whale Bay, a quiet cove fringed by pōhutukawa.

Sandy Bay and Whananaki

Sandy Bay is a surf beach popular with local board riders. Further north, Whananaki has a long wooden footbridge across its estuary, joining the two halves of the settlement.

What are the Poor Knights Islands?

The Poor Knights Islands lie around 23 km offshore and form a protected marine reserve. Warm currents, volcanic arches, sea caves and steep underwater walls make them an extraordinary place to dive and snorkel, with rich marine life. The islands themselves are a nature reserve and landing isn’t allowed, so visits are made by boat. Day trips from Tutukaka marina offer diving, snorkelling, paddleboarding and kayaking around the arches, and sightseeing cruises for those who prefer to stay dry. Browse snorkelling experiences on our snorkelling tours page.

Can you take an RV around the Tutukaka Coast loop?

Yes. The coast road is sealed and well used by campervans and motorhomes, though it is hilly and winding, with some narrow stretches and limited parking at the smaller bays. Drive it slowly, use lookouts and wider pull-offs to let traffic pass, and arrive early at popular beaches in summer. To continue north, you can return to State Highway 1 through Hikurangi, or take quieter back roads; check your rental terms before taking any unsealed sections.

Where can you stay overnight?

• Holiday parks and campgrounds at Ngunguru, Tutukaka, Matapouri and Whananaki, some close to the beach.
• Whangārei, around 30 minutes away, with holiday parks and full services.
• Self-contained freedom camping is limited on the coast and only for certified self-contained vehicles where Whangārei District Council allows it. See our Northland freedom camping guide.

How should you plan the visit?

• One night: Drive out from Whangārei in the afternoon, swim at Matapouri, walk to Whale Bay, and take a Poor Knights trip the next morning.
• Two nights: Add a lazy beach day or a walk to the Tutukaka lighthouse.
• Next: return to State Highway 1 and continue on our Whangārei to Paihia route.

Where are supplies?

Whangārei is the place to stock up. Ngunguru and Tutukaka have small stores and cafés. See our stocking up guide.

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Frequently Asked Questions