Whangaroa Harbour, previously spelled Wangaroa Harbour, is an inlet on the northern coast of Northland, New Zealand, with Whangaroa Bay and the Pacific Ocean located to the north. The harbour was formed about 6,000 years ago when rising sea levels flooded a river valley, leaving behind steep outcrops from ancient volcanic rocks.
In the harbour, you can find the small settlements of Totara North and Saies on the west side, Waitaruke on the south side, and Whangaroa on the east side. State Highway 10 runs through Waitaruke. The name "Whaingaroa" comes from a woman's lament "what a long wait" after her warrior husband had left for a foray to the south.
Whangaroa is an all-weather anchorage with mud and sand holdings. As you enter the harbour, you will see Kingfish Lodge on your port side, and you can call the lodge on VHF channel 62 to stop ashore for a meal or a quiet drink or to tie off at their wharf. Note that Kingfish Lodge is only accessible by water.
As you pass the lodge, you will find the eastern arm on your port side, which offers good anchorage throughout with the option to get water from the water boy for a small fee of $5. On your starboard side is the western arm, a lovely anchorage with a nice beach for the kids to swim and frolic.
As you travel down the harbour, you will see high cliffs reminiscent of Fiordland. There is reasonable fishing all year round in the harbour, and it's especially good in the summer months. Heading up the harbour and off the port bow is Radcliffes Bay, named after the residents who live there. At Radcliffes wharf, there is a floating jetty where you can get fuel with a simple eftpos card. Note that there is no water available here.
Directly opposite on the starboard bow is Totara North, where you can find both fuel and water. From Clansman, you can travel further up the harbour and come to the marina, where you can book a berth or stay on the breakwater. Bookings can be made by calling the marina office on channels VHF 12 OR 62.
Stop by the world-famous Whangaroa Sportfishing Club for a drink and meal, and sign the visitors book. Across the road is the Marlin Hotel, where all are welcome to dine or have a drink. A 5-minute walk up the road brings you to the Boyd Gallery, a shop with a helpful owner who can point you in the right direction.
If you venture into this area, please remember that staying here is a privilege, so please leave it as you found it. The locals are very proud of their waterways, and it's well worth the time taken to visit. Enjoy your stay!
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