Oakura: Beach, Pā and Nature Trails

Oakura offers more than a day at the beach: Oakura Beach has sand and offshore rocky reefs, along with trails through parkland and a wetland home to rare bird species. Te Koru Pā is also part of the character of the place—as a historic site and a place of significance to the Ngāti-Tairi hapū. You can plan your stay around the beach, walks and culture.

Beach and views over Oakura

Oakura Beach is a sandy beach, with offshore rocky reefs at its southern end. The beach is especially suitable for families and beginner surfers. Swimming and surfing at the beach are accessible from Corbett Park Recreation Reserve. You can take beach walks along the reserve’s waterfront side all the way to Back Beach.

If you’d like to take in more of the coastline from above, Corbett Park Recreation Reserve also has a trail to a hilltop lookout. From there, you can see over Oakura Beach and the town. A beach walk, water activities and the lookout are different ways to spend time along the same stretch of coast—so your day doesn’t have to revolve around just one beach activity.

Trails and wetland in Matekai Park

Matekai Park offers walking opportunities in a bush setting and connects the village of Oakura with the beach. The loop track is complemented by three grassy paths with rustic bridges. They cross the wetland between the upper and lower paths, giving the park a different trail layout from a single loop. The wetland is home to several rare bird species and has been classified by the Department of Conservation as an area of national significance.

Dogs may be off leash on the loop track in Matekai Park. Check the latest local guidance before your walk before letting your dog off leash. This also lets you choose a route based on whether you’re walking with a dog or mainly want to experience the grassy paths, bridges and wetland landscape.

History and activities for different interests

Te Koru Pā is a Category 1 historic site. The place holds cultural, traditional and spiritual significance for the Ngāti-Tairi hapū. This history gives Oakura another distinct facet alongside its beach and nature trails. It also makes the place of interest to travellers who want to learn about history and the significance of a place to the local community.

Other facilities cater to a range of interests: Shearer Reserve has a well-equipped playground and a skate park. The Oakura Boardriders Club provides children with disabilities with a safe and positive surfing experience. If this could suit your family, confirm the participation requirements directly with the club; this is a special offering, not a general promise of surfing lessons.

Tailor your search for accommodation in Oakura to the interests of your travel group.

In the wider destination of New Plymouth District

The wider destination of New Plymouth District also has its own attractions. The Coastal Walkway runs 13.2 km along the coast, from Pioneer Park at Port Taranaki to the eastern side of Bell Block Beach. A section from the Waiwhakaiho River to the car park on Smeaton Road provides access to Te Rewa Rewa Bridge.

In New Plymouth District, Puke Ariki showcases the region’s history, taonga and natural world in three permanent exhibition galleries. Admission to all areas is free; check the latest admission information before visiting. These regional destinations complement Oakura’s own mix of beach, park trails and cultural significance, while remaining distinct from the local attractions.

Discover more destinations: New Plymouth, Hillsborough, Egmont Village.

Back to the wider travel overview: New Plymouth District.