Discover Pātea Beach
Pātea Beach, located in the Taranaki region of New Zealand, is a hidden gem closer to Whanganui than New Plymouth, just a 50-minute drive away. This beach is renowned for its dramatic coastal features, including dilapidated north moles, surrounding cliffs, and impressive wave surges. The beach is also notable for its large piles of driftwood, which are a distinctive feature of this coastline.
Exploring the Beach and Shipwreck
To reach Pātea Beach, take State Highway 3, then follow Kent Street to Egmont Street, leading to Mana Bay at the mouth of the Pātea River. While public facilities are available, the main attractions are the natural and historical features. Just to the right of the north mole, across the first pile at about the high tide line, lies the wreck of the steamship Waitangi from the early 1920s. This shipwreck occasionally gets covered in sand, so its visibility may vary.
Scenic Views and Access
For panoramic views, head to the parking area atop the cliffs to the northwest. This spot offers a stunning perspective of the beach and cliffs, along with an access track leading down to that section of the beach. It's an ideal location for photography or simply enjoying the coastal scenery.
Industrial Ruins Nearby
If you're interested in exploring beyond the beach, take Portland Quay from State Highway 3 just before the Pātea River bridge on the south side. Turn right over the railway track and past the gravel piles to discover one of New Zealand’s few industrial ruins. This site, damaged by fire many years ago, has been left to gradually decay, offering a glimpse into the region's industrial past.
How to Get There
To visit Pātea Beach, drive along State Highway 3 and turn onto Kent Street, which leads to Egmont Street and finally to Mana Bay. This route takes you directly to the beach area. For those interested in the industrial ruins, take Portland Quay from State Highway 3 before the Pātea River bridge, then the first right over the railway track. This journey offers a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a worthwhile destination.
