Mahanga is a white sandy beach, on the northern edge of Māhia Peninsula. It's best known as great surfing beach with both right and left handers, and is particularly good on an easterly swell. The waves are punchy and fun, suitable for all levels of surfer.
But it's also great for walking, collecting shells and beach fishing. Mahanga Beach has public toilets and plenty off road parking.
Getting there
Departing Wairoa, take SH2 towards Gisborne. At Nuhaka, continue straight ahead towards Opoutama. Then at Opoutama, continue straight ahead on Mahanga Road on the sealed road (don't turn right onto Ormond Road).
An alternative route is also available direct from Mahia, by following Newcastle Street and continuing straight at the roundabout where it becomes Kaiwaitau Road - which eventually joins up with Mahanga Road.