Discovering Tom Canes Bay
Tom Canes Bay is located within Port Underwood, accessible via Port Underwood Road between Rārangi and Oyster Bay. This bay stands out for its small, sandy beach, about 100 metres wide, and its picturesque setting. The beach is adorned with colourful stones and features a grassy reserve on the south side, complete with a picnic table. It's an ideal spot for a relaxing picnic or simply unwinding by the water.
A Glimpse into the Past
In the 1830s, Tom Canes Bay, originally known as Tom Caves Bay, was quite different from today. Despite its modest size, it was home to two whaling stations and a significant site of early enterprise in Port Underwood. The bay's name evolved over time, but its charm remains.
A Tale of Heroism
The bay also holds an intriguing historical narrative. Maryann Baldick, an early settler, was reputedly granted nearby Whangatoetoe Bay and Pipi Bay, 200 acres, by local Māori as a reward for saving a young Māori girl from assault by drunken whalemen.
Maryann later moved to Blenheim, where she established a nursing and maternity home after 4 marriages and 10 children.
How to Get There
To reach Tom Canes Bay, take Port Underwood Road, which connects Rārangi and Oyster Bay. The bay is the last accessible one along this route, 65 minutes and 51 km away. If you're interested in learning more about the bay's history, Cruise Guide offers an excellent short history of the area.
Other places to visit along Underwood Road include Pukatea / Whites Bay, Waikutakuta / Robin Hood Bay and Ocean Bay.
