Ruapuke Beach

With isolation and black sand, Ruapuke beach is the rugged west coast at its best. Unsuitable for swimming, this beach is the perfect place to take a stroll along the beach to collect your thoughts as you stroll alongside the fragile dunes, a nesting ground for the critically endangered Dotterel.

Situated at the end of Whaanga Rd or take a 10-minute walk across farmland from the Ruapuke Holiday Park. Like a step back in time, this quiet corner of the country makes for the perfect base for a summer getaway. The pockets of native trees attract ample birdlife, including Tui, Kereru and Kingfisher, providing a chorus to the peaceful remote valley.

Getting there:
From Hamilton, follow highway 23 towards Raglan, turning left at Te Mata Road. Follow Te Mata Road to Te Mata, where Ruapuke Road will appear on your right as you reach Te Mata. Follow Ruapuke Road onto Whaanga Road, a change in name occurring shortly after it turns to gravel and continues to the beach.

If you’re travelling from Kawhia, follow Raglan Rd (which later becomes Kawhia Rd) past Bridal Veil Falls [worth the stop] to Te Mata, where Ruapuke Rd is on your left as you leave Te Mata, follow the directions above from here.

As seen in the "can't dampen our spirits" episode on YouTube.

Wildlife: 1

Scenic: 1

History / Points of interest: 1/2

Quiet / Relaxed: 1

Visit again: 1

Smiles per Hour rating: 4.5