Rocky Bay / Whakanewha Bay on Waiheke Island
Rocky Bay / Whakanewha Bay is the coastal feature of Whakanewha Regional Park on Waiheke Island's southern side. The beach is characterised by its shelly and stony terrain, with expansive mudflats at low tide. For swimming, high tide is the optimal time. Behind the beach, a grassy reserve has picnic areas and toilet facilities. Beyond the reserve, you'll find a strip of established native coastal forest, leading to extensive regenerating forest and walking tracks.
Poukaraka Flats Campsite
At the southern end of the beach lies the Poukaraka Flats Campsite, accessible via Gordons Road. To the east of the campsite, the Poukaraka Wetlands can be reached by a short access track. North of the campsite, you can explore a historic pā site. The northern end of the beach is home to a well-defined and protected dotterel breeding ground, starting next to the Sculpture Car Park beach entrance off Gordon Road.
Walking Tracks and Scenic Routes
The Sculpture Car Park is a gateway to several walking tracks, including the scenic Nikau Track, which leads to the Cascades Loop. These tracks are an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the recovering native forest and growing diversity of wildlife.
Getting to Rocky Bay
The drive from Oneroa to Rocky Bay takes 12 minutes and 8.1 km. From there, access the beach and its surrounding attractions via Gordons Road. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Omiha Memorial Hall and follow the signs into the park along the shoreline.
Other nearby beaches to visit on Waiheke include Big Oneroa, Little Oneroa, Palm Beach and Onetangi.
