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Beach · Whitianga, Waikato
Buffalo Beach
A roughly 4 km beach in front of Whitianga in Mercury Bay, with a promenade, calm water and the name of a British ship that was wrecked there in 1840.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Buffalo Beach
Buffalo Beach is Whitianga’s urban beach: it starts near the town centre and the harbour mouth and extends north for about 4 km along Mercury Bay. The sand is light and the sea, sheltered by the bay, normally has small waves.
The name comes from the HMS Buffalo, a Royal Navy ship that was wrecked there in a storm in 1840 while carrying kauri logs. An anchor displayed in a small memorial on the promenade commemorates the wreck, and parts of the hull still appear on the sand at very low tides.
A promenade and cycle path run the length of the beach, with benches, picnic areas and access to the town centre, where restaurants, cafés and shops are located. At the southern end, near the harbour mouth, are the wharf and the departure point for sightseeing boats to Cathedral Cove.
The beach is used for walking, swimming, kayaking and stand-up paddle, and the bay is a setting for recreational fishing.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 hour to half a day, depending on how much time you spend on the beach and walking.
Best time
In the morning, when the sea is usually calmer, and late afternoon for a stroll on the promenade. From December to March the water is more pleasant for swimming.
How to get there
Within walking distance from anywhere in Whitianga town centre: the beach starts a few minutes from the wharf and runs along the main coastal avenue.
Tip
Look for the memorial with the HMS Buffalo anchor on the promenade. The northern section of the beach, farther from town, is quieter.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Buffalo Beach
Can you swim at Buffalo Beach?
Yes. The beach lies inside Mercury Bay and usually has small waves.
Why is it called Buffalo Beach?
After the HMS Buffalo, a British ship that wrecked there in 1840. An anchor on the shore commemorates the wreck.
Is Buffalo Beach near Whitianga town centre?
Yes, it starts by the town centre and stretches about 4 km to the north.