Archway Islands at Wharariki Beach
Located towards the northeast end of spectacular Wharariki Beach, the four Archway Islands are a captivating attraction, especially during sunset. These islands are best accessed via the Wharariki Beach Track, offering a scenic route to this natural wonder. Two of the islands feature three large arches, and you need to walk along the beach to get different viewing angles to spot them all.
Discovering the Three Arches
While walking along the beach from either direction, you'll notice that from most perspectives, only one of the three arches is visible. The larger island has two arches on its beach-facing side, but they can only be seen together from a specific narrow angle, which is the best position for photos. The third arch is located on the smaller island and becomes visible as you continue southwest down the beach.
The appearance of the Archway Islands changes dramatically depending on your vantage point. From the southwestern end of the beach, the islands appear as a single landmass with one prominent arch.
How to Get There
To reach the Archway Islands, take Wharariki Road from Puponga to the Wharariki Beach Track. This 30-minute walk is the quickest route. You can also follow a longer farm track that takes you towards the southwest end of the beach, then walk back along the beach and return to the car park on the Wharariki Beach Track.
While on the beach, check out the caves behind the prime viewing point for the islands. There are also more caves and arches near the alternative entrance. Other nearby attractions include the Puponga Hilltop Walk, Cape Farewell and Farewell Spit, where you can take a scenic walk to wild Ocean Beach and Fossil Point.
