The Ultimate Guide to the Northernmost Point of New Zealand56

Nestled at the top of the North Island, Cape Reinga is the northernmost point of New Zealand. This breathtaking headland is a place of great cultural and spiritual significance to the Māori people, and it offers stunning views of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean. Here's a comprehensive guide to the top attractions and things to do at Cape Reinga.

Te Paki Sand Dunes

Before reaching Cape Reinga, you'll encounter the Te Paki Sand Dunes, a vast expanse of rolling sand hills that stretch for miles along the coastline. These dunes are a popular spot for sandboarding and quad biking, and they offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Ninety Mile Beach

Continuing north from Te Paki, you'll arrive at Ninety Mile Beach, a seemingly endless stretch of sandy beach that extends for approximately 88 miles. While it's known as Ninety Mile Beach, it's actually only about 55 miles long. This beach is a popular destination for fishing, surfing, and driving. However, it's important to be aware of the tides and safety precautions before venturing out.

Cape Reinga Lighthouse

The iconic Cape Reinga Lighthouse stands at the tip of the headland and offers breathtaking panoramic views. The lighthouse was built in 1941 and is still operational today. Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a small fee, providing stunning views of the surrounding coastline and the meeting point of the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

Spirits Bay

Just south of Cape Reinga is Spirits Bay, a beautiful and secluded beach. This beach is said to be the departure point for the spirits of the dead as they journey to their ancestral homeland in Hawaiki. While swimming is not recommended due to strong currents, Spirits Bay is a great spot for picnicking, relaxing, and soaking up the beauty of the surroundings.

Surfing and Fishing

The waters around Cape Reinga offer excellent opportunities for surfing and fishing. The breaks at Shipwreck Bay and Twilight Beach are popular surf spots, while the coastline is teeming with a variety of fish species, including snapper, kingfish, and marlin.

Cultural Significance

Cape Reinga is a place of deep cultural and spiritual significance to the Māori people. It is believed to be the place where the spirits of the dead depart for their journey to Hawaiki. The headland is also home to a number of sacred sites, including the Te Werahi o Te Reinga waterfall.

Accommodation and Dining

There are several accommodation options available near Cape Reinga, including motels, guesthouses, and campsites. The Cape Reinga Lighthouse Cafe offers a variety of dining options, including traditional Māori dishes.

Getting There

Cape Reinga is located approximately 100 miles north of Auckland. The drive takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes. The nearest airport is Kaitaia Airport, which is located about 40 miles from Cape Reinga.

Tips for Visiting

- Check the weather forecast before you go, as the weather conditions can change quickly at Cape Reinga.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear, as the terrain can be rough in some areas.
- Be aware of the tides and safety precautions when swimming or surfing.
- Respect the cultural significance of the area and behave respectfully towards the Māori people.

2025-01-02

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