Paekākāriki

Paekākāriki is an ideal beach for swimming, surfing, and taking in the distant views of the South Island to the music of the surf breaking on the beach. The Paekākāriki Surf Lifeguards provide a focal point for swimmers on the beach.

The dunes above the beach are also home to the smallest penguins in the world. Kororā – the nocturnal Little Blue Penguin – make their burrows here. While you’re unlikely to ever see them, there’s a great info board at the Ames Street Reserve where you can learn more about them. Even better, watch our 'Walks with Rob' to join him near the Fisherman's Table restaurant at the southern end of Paekākāriki for a tour.