Tapuae Beach

The distance from New Plymouth is about 12 km.

Where:-

On State Highway 45, 11 km south of New Plymouth, in a dip 3 km north of Oakura, there's a turning bay for Washer Road on the coast side of SH 45 near house no: 498. Go 700 m down the hill to the car park and walk along the track by the creek, keeping right (fishermen use the left); 10 minutes to the beach.

What's there:-

Popular with local naturists. (Talk to Linda.) Beach umbrellas are very useful, particularly if you have little ones, as there is no shelter on the black, hot, iron-sand. Dogs are allowed. Motor camp, store and petrol at Oakura.

Comments:-

Nov 11, IC - New houses have been built and it is not uncommon to note prospective owners peering over the cliffs or wandering along the beach with ties on (but there's not much bother from gawkers due to the effort to get there).

Jul 05, JL - A new 26-house subdivision is going in, but that shouldn't disrupt its traditional use - there are no views directly onto the beach.

Mar 99, JL - A consistently lovely spot - always someone there - normally most are naked.