Exploring the Remote Pahaoa Riverhead
Located on the Wairarapa coast, the secluded fishing beach at Pahaoa Riverhead is accessible via road or by walking from the Glendhu Station access road. This coastal area is striking for its geological formations and its solitude. It is also a popular fishing spot.
Fishing and Natural Features
The beach's steep incline means the ocean becomes deep quickly, so swimming is not recommended, especially if you are alone. However, you can enjoy both freshwater and saltwater fishing in the river and estuary. Be sure to check the fishing quotas available at the Glendhu Station gate.
The shore is dotted with large pieces of driftwood and smooth, flat stones shaped by the water. The coastline's most distinctive feature is the triangular rock formations emerging from the surf at the riverhead. These formations, known as the Glendhu Rocks to the north and Kairingaringa Reef to the south, display layers of sediment and rock compressed over millions of years. Some formations near the shore can be climbed and explored.
The area is rich in wildlife, with geese, ducks, and other waterfowl inhabiting the wide river. From the riverhead, you can see the expansive coastline stretching southward.
How to Get There
To reach Pahaoa Riverhead from Martinborough, take Hinakura Road all the way to remote Hinakura, where the road becomes Bush Gully Road. After a short distance, turn southeast onto gravel Pahaoa Road. This follows the river towards the coast. You can continue by car to the south side of the riverhead at Pahaoa Station, or walk from the Geldhu Station access road to the beach (up to 1 hour) on the north side of the river. The drive is winding, 42 km and takes about 75 minutes.
Other remote places to explore the south Wairarapa Coast include White Rock Beach, Tora Beaches and Cape Palliser Road to Cape Palliser.
