Maukatia Bay's Geological Features
Maukatia Bay, located on the southern side of Ōtakamiro Point near the gannet colony, is a lesser-known but captivating destination on the west coast of Auckland. Just a 15-minute walk from Muriwai Beach via the Muriwai Gannet Colony Walkway, this bay is best known for its striking geological formations, including ancient pillow lava patterns visible on the southern cliffs.
A Classic West Coast Beach Experience
Maukatia Bay exemplifies the rugged beauty typical of the Waitākere west coast. The 600-metre beach is framed by dramatic cliffs and hills, with the region's characteristic black sand and surf. It's an ideal spot for swimming and surfing when lifeguards are present, providing a quintessential Auckland coastal experience with fewer people at Miriwai next door or Piha in the Waitākere Ranges..
At the north end of he beach, in the cliffs at the base of Ōtakamiro Point, you will find a natural tunnel that is safe to navigate at low tide.
Historical Quarry and Geological Wonders
Above the car park, the cliff was once quarried for scoria rock. However, the real geological marvel lies further south, where you can observe the ancient pillow lava formations etched into the 80-metre-high cliff face. These 20-million-year-old patterns offer a glimpse into the area's volcanic past, making it a fascinating site for geology enthusiasts.
How to Get to Maukatia Bay
To reach Maukatia Bay, you can either walk from Muriwai Beach along the Muriwai Gannet Colony Walkway, which takes about 15 minutes, or take the short drive along Waitea Road to the car park above the beach. From the car park, it's just a short, steep walk down to the beach.
To the south of Muriwai Beach is Te Henga / Bethells Beach. There, you can discover a long black sand surf beach, a walk to O'Neill Bay and more stunning cliffs, caves and tunnels.
