Okahu Bay Beach — Attraction in Ōrākei

Okahu Bay is a bay/beach along Tamaki Drive, in the Auckland region, in the Orākei area.

The name Ōkahu comes from Māori Ōkahu, meaning “the dwelling place of Kahumatamomoe.”

It is part of the ancestral land of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei, and co-managed with Auckland Council.

🏖 What It’s Like

The beach has white (or light) sand, with a gentle slope into the water, which makes it relatively safe for swimming for families and casual visitors.

Behind the beach there are grassed picnic areas, pōhutukawa trees, and park/recreational spaces.

There are facilities: toilets, changing rooms, picnic tables, electric barbecues in Okahu Bay Reserve.

⚠️ Things to Know & Issues

Water quality: After heavy rains there is risk of stormwater runoff, which sometimes affects cleanliness of the bay. It’s good to check updates (for example via Safeswim) before swimming.

Environmental health: Studies have found that the bay has lower shellfish populations (pipi, cockles) than expected in a healthy bay, likely due to runoff, excess nutrients, sediment etc.

Ownership / management: The beach and reserve are on Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei land. There is historic significance (including land taken and later partial restitution) and care must be taken to respect tikanga (cultural protocols)...

Okahu Bay Beach in Auckland is a great spot for a relaxed day by the water. It’s close to the city, making it easily accessible, and offers calm waters perfect for paddleboarding and kayaking. The beach has a grassy area with picnic spots, and the nearby park adds to the scenic atmosphere. However, the water quality can sometimes be an issue after heavy rain, so it’s good to check conditions before swimming. Overall, it’s a nice, family-friendly spot with great views of the harbor. The name Okahu Bay comes from the Māori Ōkahu, meaning "the dwelling place of Kahumatamomoe". It was the site of the home village of Ngāti Whātua, an important Māori...

Having walking along Okahu Beach this morning, I have found that this beach is very beautiful and peaceful.

Even though there were quite a number of people running, jogging, walking and cycling along the footpath and cycling path, I could still the relaxing and quiet ambience.

I highly recommend you to take a stroll there if you live near Okahu Bay or happen to...