Tāhunanui Beach

Locals and holidaymakers often paddle or swim to Arrow (Fifeshire) Rock, Haulashore Island or the historic Boulder Bank to explore the attractions nestled along the coast. At the beach's eastern end, low tide reveals an exciting collection of rockpools, abundant with small crabs, fish, and sea snails left lingering with the ebb and flow of the ocean. Just above the rockpools is a pier extending into the bay, where keen fisherman flock at all times of the year to cast their line and reel in a catch.

Tāhunanui is loosely translated in Māori to mean big (nui) sandbank (tahuna), which certainly lives up to its name. The beach is a popular destination for sunbathing, swimming, paddle boarding, kitesurfing and kayaking, whilst behind the rolling dunes is a family-friendly outdoor playground like no other. Dogs are not permitted on the two eastern thirds of Tāhunanui Beach, and dog walking is only allowed on Back Beach.

Contact details

Address: Rocks Road, Nelson City 7010