Waipātiki Beach is a picturesque settlement with native bush and a broad stretch of golden sand. The Māori word Waipātiki translates to 'water of the flounder', and was named as such due to its abundance of flounder. This was easy fishing for early Māori before the 1931 earthquake, which resulted in raising the flounder’s wide sandy flat habitat, and created a deep stream pattern.
These days, the stunning beach offers swimming, surfing, fishing, diving and has a fresh-water stream being popular with younger children who are content to paddle.
Small boats can be launched from beach, and the many coastal and bush walks are well worth exploring. Among the dense native bush are wikahikatea trees, nikau palms, and kahikatea (some which are thought to be around 400 years old!). Keep your eyes and ears out for the beautiful singing of native birds including tui, kereru, morepork and bellbirds.
Near the beach is a camping ground, beach picnic area and toilets.