Last updated October 2026
Whangaumu Bay, also known as Wellington’s Bay, is a sheltered north-facing beach on the Tūtūkākā Coast about 30 kilometres east of Whangārei city centre. The long crescent of white sand provides calm conditions ideal for family swimming, with clear views across to the Hen and Chicken Islands on the horizon.
The bay is reached via Whangaumu Street after turning left at the T-intersection on Tūtūkākā Block Road. Public parking is available at the reserve, and basic facilities support day visits and limited overnight stays.
Practical Information
- Location
- End of Whangaumu Street, Tūtūkākā (turn left at the T-intersection on Tūtūkākā Block Road)
- Distance from city
- Approx. 30 km / 30 minutes from Whangārei city centre
- Parking
- Free public car park at Wellington’s Bay Reserve
- Facilities
- Toilets under the pines at the car park end
- Camping
- Freedom camping permitted in designated site, 1 night per calendar month limit; closed 18 December to 8 February
- Activities
- Swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, surfcasting, rock pooling
- Cost
- Free
- Lifeguard
- Not patrolled
About Whangaumu Bay
The bay sits at the end of Whangaumu Street on the Tūtūkākā Coast. Its sheltered position protects it from much of the ocean swell that affects more exposed beaches further along the coast.
Pale sand lines the shore, with pine trees at the reserve end and native coastal vegetation along the northern rocks. The dual naming reflects local history: Whangaumu is the original Māori name, while Wellington’s Bay came into use after an early European landowner. Both names remain in common circulation.
At the northern end, a short scramble over rocks leads to a tucked-away cove with rock pools exposed at low tide. This area offers opportunities for exploration while the main bay provides calm water for swimming. The beach is popular with families who prefer calmer water to the surf beaches nearby.
Whangārei District Council maintains the reserve and provides information on local walks, including the short Whangaumu Lookout track. Visitors should check tide times and weather before heading out, as coastal conditions can change.
Swimming and Water Quality
Whangaumu Bay is one of the calmer swimming spots on the Tūtūkākā Coast thanks to its sheltered aspect and limited surf or rip currents, though conditions should still be checked before swimming.
Northland Regional Council monitors water quality at the site during summer, with results published on the LAWA website. As with other Northland coastal beaches, avoid swimming for two to three days after heavy rain when stormwater runoff may affect quality.
Where to Learn More
LAWA — Wellington’s Bay: Current and historical water quality monitoring data for the site.
Whangārei District Council — Tūtūkākā walks: Details on local reserves, parking, and short walking tracks including the Whangaumu Lookout.
Whangārei District Council — Freedom camping: Official rules and maps for designated camping areas across the district.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Whangaumu Bay the same as Wellington’s Bay?
Yes. Whangaumu is the original Māori name for the bay, while Wellington’s Bay came into use after an early European landowner. Both names are used locally.
Is Whangaumu Bay good for children?
It is popular with families. The sheltered north-facing bay usually has calm water with little surf or rip current, making it one of the more family-friendly beaches on the Tūtūkākā Coast. Keep children within arm’s reach and check conditions on the day.
Is freedom camping allowed at Whangaumu Bay?
Yes, in the designated site only, with a limit of one night per calendar month. The site is closed to freedom camping from 18 December to 8 February each year.
Can I launch a kayak here?
Yes. The calm water and easy beach access suit kayaking and paddleboarding.
How do I get there from Whangārei?
Travel toward Ngunguru on State Highway 1, then follow signs to Tūtūkākā. At the T-intersection on Tūtūkākā Block Road, turn left onto Whangaumu Street rather than continuing to the marina.
Are there toilets at the beach?
Yes. Public toilets are located under the pines at the car park end of the reserve.
Is phone coverage reliable at Whangaumu Bay?
Coverage can be patchy on the Tūtūkākā Coast. Download offline maps and check tide times before travelling.
Are dogs allowed on the beach?
Dogs are permitted on most Whangārei District beaches except where specific coastal bans apply. Check current signage or council maps for any restrictions at Whangaumu Bay.
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