Coastline, Pouto, Kaipara Heads
Known for its extensive dune systems, the Pouto Peninsula also includes vast areas of wetlands and bush. It's also home to several threatened species, including the New Zealand dotterel.
Pouto’s unique ecosystem, however, is extremely vulnerable, and visitors must tread with care to protect it’s delicate balance.
Pouto’s dune system creates a large mosaic of dunes, sand flats, wetlands and dune lakes. The lakes are home to several threatened plants and animals. Pouto is part of the ancestral land of the Te Uri o Hau hapu of Ngati Whatua.
Bird watching, walking, photography and water sports are all popular activities on the Pouto Peninsula.
Find out where you can stay at the Pouto Peninsula.
Walk, ride and drive with care on the Pouto Peninsula. Remember vehicles and horses need to avoid any dune areas or wetlands.
Find businesses that are DOC-approved to provide activities and services at Pouto Peninsula.
Pouto brochure (PDF, 1,601K)
NZ weather
DOC maps: Discover the outdoors - DOC's key places, campsites, tracks and huts, and visitor centres on a map
Kauri trees
Stop the spread of didymoCheck, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.
Follow the Outdoor Safety Code:1. Plan your trip2. Tell someone3. Be aware of the weather4. Know your limits5. Take sufficient supplies
Alerts for Northland places
Tips for driving on unsealed roads
Learn more Safety