Tokomaru Bay & Tolaga Bay

Two bays, two wharves, and a coastline packed with pāua pies, wharf jumps, legendary songs, and stories that stretch across the Pacific.

Tokomaru and Tolaga Bay are classic Coastie stops - one a laid-back beach town with pāua pies and driftwood dreams, the other defined by New Zealand’s longest wharf, stubbornly stretching to sea with a side of history. Together they’re Highway 35 at its best: windows down, big horizons, and locals who’ll treat you like whānau before you’ve finished your first feed.

TOKOMARU BAY 

Tokomaru Bay has an easy charm that wins visitors over fast. The historic wharf is weathered and worn but still standing, a reminder of the bay’s past and a landmark you can’t miss. Te Puka Tavern is the local hub for hearty meals and a cold drink with a view, while Café 35 is famous for its pāua pies. The bay itself is perfect for a swim, a surf, or a barefoot wander among the driftwood to get your feet salty. With heritage sites and a creative local spirit, Tokomaru Bay feels like the East Cape wrapped up in one friendly stop - pastry included.

Between Tokomaru and Tolaga Bay, you’ll find the seaside village of Anaura Bay — perfect for classic Kiwi camping, fishing, and surfing at its finest.

Tolaga Bay 

Tolaga Bay, or Uawa, is a hub of history and culture. The 660-metre wharf is a favourite for fishing, strolling, and jumping in with the locals. From here you can walk out to Cooks Cove, where Captain Cook once anchored, or visit the towering Te Pourewa Beacon of Light. Windows down, feet on the dash, reggae activated - it’s the soundtrack of Uawa, home of Rob Ruha and his anthem Uawa 35. Around the bend, Whangara is famous worldwide as the setting for Whale Rider. Add in the seaside campground, golf courses, and a coastline that never sits still - part postcard, part playlist - and you’ve got a stop that’s equal parts story and scenery.

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