The Waikato district has many reserves maintained by the Waikato District Council for you to enjoy.
Planning an event?
You will need to notify Council. Please fill out the Reserve event application form or call us for further information. If vehicle access to the reserve is required, please ensure the Reserves and key bond form is included with your application.
Coastal reserves
There are four popular coastal reserves on the west coast. Please note that these are not exclusively the only bookable reserves. You can apply to book any reserve for an event. If you would like to locate these coastal reserves, please use our interactive map. Please note: Camping and overnight stays are prohibited
on these reserves .
These coastal reserves include:
Wainui Reserve - Ngarunui Beach
Wainui Reserve is located above Raglan's stunning Ngarunui Beach and offers spectacular views plus a variety of recreational opportunities including swimming, surfing, kite flying and hang gliding.
The Wainui Reserve also hosts music events at the reserve’s amphitheatre, and subject to council agreement, weddings can be held at the reserve.
Ngarunui Beach is patrolled by lifeguards over the summer months and is the Waikato's most popular beach.
View on Google Maps
Manu Bay
Manu Bay is a popular site for surfing by local, regional, and international surfing communities. Surfing events are held at Manu Bay attracting large crowds. Manu Bay has a boat ramp is also a popular site for fishing.
View on Google Maps
Whale Bay
Whale Bay is famous for its surf break and a popular holiday destination. This is not a swimming beach but surfers brave the rocks to enjoy one of the fastest left-hand breaks around. There is a grassed area suited for picnicking where visitors can take
in the stunning seascape.
View on Google Maps
Sunset Beach
Travel to Port Waikato and at the south end of the town you will find Sunset Beach. Another surfer's gem, this beach is picturesque with its black sand and striking rock formations. Port Waikato is well-known for its whitebait which are plentiful at the
mouth of the Waikato River.
View on Google Maps
To find out more about Waikato district reserves and recreational facilities please click on the related links or contact us.