Maitai Bay beach
Maitai Bay Beach in northern New Zealand is one of those idyllic destinations that the soul yearns for while we sit at work or feel bored at home. A tranquil getaway amidst the unparalleled natural beauty of Te Ika-a-Māui, far from the hustle and bustle of crowded hotels, will etch itself in your memory with stunning photographs. Any perceived lack of comfort fades into insignificance against the backdrop of such breathtaking scenery: after visiting this place, you will realize that the long flight and journey to the bay pale in comparison to the blissful days spent here.
Photos
Beach description
Even those accustomed to holidaying in warm climes will marvel at the crystal-clear tranquility of the ocean in Maitai Bay. The beach, shaped like a horseshoe, is blanketed with fine, light sand that stretches from the shore to the seabed. Gentle blue waves lap the beach, offering a shallow entry into the water. At the beach's right end, low cliffs, cloaked in lush greenery, provide a perfect spot for diving enthusiasts.
Delve into the depths with a swimming mask, and the Pacific Ocean's vibrant underwater fauna will unfold before you. Above, New Zealand's tuis - a beautiful bird species endemic to these islands - soar through the skies. The beach is also home to other avian rarities, such as the New Zealand plover and the Eurasian oystercatcher. The surrounding natural splendor is equally breathtaking, with ancient New Zealand kauri trees, also known as southern agathis, growing nearby.
Main Activities at Maitai Bay:
- Boat excursions (options for boat rentals are available);
- Explorative walks on well-maintained trails of varying lengths, weaving through fig trees and leading to neighboring bays such as Maitako or Karikari;
- Wildlife observation, including birdwatching and fish spotting;
- Swimming and snorkeling, for those looking to immerse themselves in the bay's serene waters.
Optimal Visiting Time:
Choosing the best time for a beach vacation in New Zealand depends on what you're looking for in your seaside getaway. Here's a guide to help you decide:
- Peak Season (December to February): This is the height of summer in New Zealand, offering the warmest beach weather. Expect long, sunny days perfect for swimming and sunbathing. However, these months are also the busiest, so be prepared for crowded beaches and higher prices.
- Shoulder Season (March to April, October to November): These months offer a sweet spot with pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists. The water can still be warm enough for swimming, especially in the northern regions.
- Late Spring (November): If you're looking to avoid the summer crowds but still enjoy good weather, late spring can be ideal. The beaches are less crowded, and the water temperatures are starting to warm up.
- Early Fall (March): Similarly, early fall provides the tail end of summer warmth with a reduction in tourist numbers, making it a great time for a more tranquil beach experience.
Ultimately, the best time for a beach vacation in New Zealand is during the peak summer months if you don't mind the crowds, or the shoulder seasons if you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere with still agreeable weather.
Video: Beach Maitai Bay
Infrastructure
The bay is situated on the outskirts of the Karikari Peninsula, 44 kilometers from Kaitaia Airport. The most convenient mode of transportation is by car, which can be parked in the designated lot. Please be aware that the final 2 kilometers to the beach are on an unpaved road.
A distinctive characteristic of this beach is the lack of hotels or private residences available for rent in the vicinity. However, a mere three hundred meters from the shoreline, there is a camping area equipped to accommodate 100 tents. Regrettably, it is not possible to reserve a spot in advance, so it is advisable to remember that the peak season at the beach in New Zealand spans from December to February. Fees are charged per person rather than per site: children under four years old are welcomed free of charge. For children aged five to seventeen, the fee is half that of an adult per night. It is also crucial to note that campfires are prohibited and there are no waste bins on the campsite; visitors are expected to collect and remove their own trash. Planning for meals is essential, as there are no stores or eateries in close proximity, though drinking water is readily available from taps within the camp. Additional facilities include electric showers and toilets. Please note that pets are not permitted.
Weather in Maitai Bay
Best hotels of Maitai Bay
All hotels of Maitai BayUseful information
Unfortunately, until March 2020, Maitai Bay Beach like a number of other closely located beaches remains closed to the public. The reason for this is the depletion of local flora and fauna, the balance of which could not but be disturbed as a result of active human activity.
Many travelers recommend taking an insect repellent with them, especially in winter.