About Tutukaka Marina
Nestled on New Zealand’s Tutukaka Coast north of Whangārei, Tutukaka Marina is a modern coastal marina and community hub. It began in 1970 when the Northland Harbour Board completed a reclamation at Tutukaka Harbour (www.tutukaka.co.nz ). Since then it has grown from a few wooden moorings into a fully equipped concrete-pontoon marina with roughly 235 private berths for boats 10–20 m long (www.boaties.co.nz ). The marina lies just a few hundred metres from Tutukaka village, halfway between Whangārei and the Bay of Islands. Its prime location facing the open ocean and Poor Knights Islands makes it a favourite base for game fishing and scuba diving (www.boaties.co.nz ). Onshore you’ll find a ship’s chandlery, a general store, fuel dock, and the Whangārei Deep Sea Anglers Club – a historic fishing club established here (clubhouse built in 1973) (www.tutukaka.co.nz ). As “Tutukaka – the Gateway to the North,” the marina is notable for its friendly clubrooms and eateries with sea views, and for being run by a charitable trust that supports youth sailing and local events (www.tutukaka.co.nz ). Overall, Tutukaka Marina blends practical boat facilities with a laid-back seaside ambiance that reflects the region’s fishing and diving heritage (www.tutukaka.co.nz ) (www.boaties.co.nz ).
Events and Programming
Tutukaka Marina is primarily a boating and service venue rather than a performance theatre, so it doesn’t have regular concerts or shows. Instead, it hosts community-driven events that celebrate the coastal lifestyle. In summer months (October to March) the marina’s grassy forecourt transforms into the “Tutukaka Twilight Market,” with dozens of artisan stalls, food trucks and live entertainment from about 4pm to 8pm (www.northlandnz.com ). Entry to the market is free, and local musicians often provide background music. The Deep Sea Anglers Club (at the marina) runs social fishing competitions and dinners; in fact they organize seven fishing tournaments a year (www.whangareideepseaanglersclub.co.nz ). These range from a three-day “One Base” big-game fishing tournament to family-friendly and ladies-only fishing events – all centered around this harbour. Boat tours and charters also “program” the marina each day: dive charter boats (for example Dive! Tutukaka operates the largest dedicated dive fleet in NZ (diving.co.nz )) and fishing charters depart from the marina daily for the Poor Knights Islands and offshore reefs. In short, events at Tutukaka Marina are informal and varied – from community markets and club race nights to scheduled boat excursions – highlighting its role as a recreational hub on the Tutukaka Coast (www.boaties.co.nz ) (www.northlandnz.com ).
Tickets and Booking
There is no admission fee to visit Tutukaka Marina – the waterfront and shops are open-access. If you come for an event like the Twilight Market or a club fundraiser, these are generally free to attend (often just requiring free ADM). You won’t buy tickets at the marina’s gate because one doesn’t exist. Instead, “tickets” or bookings come into play when reserving specific services. For example, if you want to berth a boat in the marina, you must arrange a berth licence through the marina office (or transfer an existing licence) under the trust’s rules (www.tutukaka.co.nz ). Likewise, if you want to join a fishing tournament or boat charter, you go through the hosting organization (the Deep Sea Anglers Club or a charter company), which may sell tickets or require registration. For scuba dives, Dive! Tutukaka and other local companies operate by reservation – they have websites and shop offices to book seats on their boats. In practice, planning a visit means booking tours, charters or accommodation via the relevant provider rather than a master box office. The marina office itself does take payments for berthing services, fuel and equipment hire. For popular activities (like summer boat tours or markets), it’s wise to check event dates or boat schedules and book in advance, especially at peak season.
Seating and Layout
Tutukaka Marina is an open-air harbour with a casual layout. There are no fixed stadium seats; instead the venue feels like a seaside park plus docks. The main public area is a flat lawn (the “marina green”) in front of the office, which is often used as the gathering area for markets or community events (www.northlandnz.com ). This lawn has picnic tables and sheltered benches, plus clear sightlines to the water. Surrounding it are low-rise buildings (marina office with a café, shops, the anglers club) and the boat berths. Wooden boardwalks connect the jetties – you can stroll out onto them to admire boats and views. During events, portable chairs and low fences may be set up to define a “front row,” but generally people stand or bring their own chairs/blankets on the grass. For best viewing, the gentle slope of the lawn to the water offers a panoramic view – the sunset glow is often cited as spectacular. If nerves or poor sightlines are a concern, the Anglers Club’s upstairs “Lookout” lounge provides an elevated view (though it is a members’ club bar, it is open to visitors when the kitchen is serving). In any case, there are no “bad seats” – you can watch from the boardwalk, lawn or even from the decks of moored boats. One tip: shade is limited, so for daytime visits you might want to claim a spot under the sparse palms or bring an umbrella. On cool evenings, warm layers help, since the sea breeze can be chilly. Acoustics: Sound carries over the water and lawn, so at markets or speeches be aware that noise carries well – even distant music can be audible. The marina has basic PA (towers and speakers brought in for events), but there’s no dedicated sound system unless hired for a specific occasion. Overall, the layout is very accessible and informal, with public paths weaving among the buildings, vessels and open green space.
Getting There and Parking
Location: Tutukaka Marina is located on Marina Road, Tutukaka (postcode 0173) in the Whangārei District of Northland. It sits at the western end of Kwaharatoa Bay, off Tutukaka Harbour. By car, follow State Highway 1 north to Whangārei, then take SH 12 (turning right at Waro) for 18 km to Tutukaka Road. Turn onto Tutukaka Road, which leads you into Tutukaka village; Marina Road branches off to the left. From central Auckland, it’s about 225 km (roughly 2½–3 hours). GPS coordinates are approximately 35.38°S, 174.31°E.
By car: There is a visitor car park at the marina near the main office. As of latest reports, public parking is free of charge (www.northlandnz.com ) (please follow any posted fees or time limits, but at this small marina no parking meters are in use). The ramp and immediate dock areas are reserved for boat trailers and working vehicles, so please keep those clear. On busy evenings (e.g. twilight markets), attendants may direct cars in the gravel lot. If the main carpark is full, additional parking is available along the village strip (short walk). Residential streets in Tutukaka village are mostly unmetered as well. By taxi or shuttle: There are no large buses to Tutukaka, but Whangarei is on major routes. The Whangarei Coastal Commuter company runs a daily shuttle (sometimes called the “dive shuttle”) to the marina: one trip leaves Whangarei in the morning and one returns in the afternoon. Tickets cost about NZ$25–27 one-way (www.rome2rio.com ). These shuttles must be booked in advance (small groups or individuals calling to reserve). Several local taxi firms serve Tutukaka – for example Keith’s Tutukaka Passenger or Coastal Commuter Taxis (Chris 021-901408) – and a ride from Whangarei costs on the order of NZ$90–100 each way. Rideshare services (Uber) are not common this far north, so pre-arrange transportation. By bus: InterCity coaches stop in Whangarei, not Tutukaka. If you arrive by bus or van into Whangarei, then connect via the above shuttle or taxi.
Nearest airports: The nearest regional airport is Whangārei (about 40 km or a 45-minute drive west). The Bay of Islands (Kerikeri Airport, 67 km) and Auckland Airport (230 km) are also used by travelers heading here.
Inside the Venue
Once inside Tutukaka Marina, you’ll find a working harbour with visitor-friendly amenities. Entry and security: There is no formal admission gate for pedestrians – you can walk in from the car park or docks at will. The marina office (a one-story building by the lawn) is where transient visitors check in if needed (for boat keys or berth arrangements). Berth holders have gated keycard entry to the docks, but visitors can stroll the marina boardwalk freely. Atmosphere: The vibe is low-key and friendly. Boaters mix with families and divers – flip-flops (jandals) and shorts are as common as work-boots and wet-suits. There is lighting along the docks for night-time walking, and staff or club members may be around after dark (especially on weekends). Always mind the water edges (no railings), especially with kids. Food and drink: The Marina Office houses the main café, “Marina Woodfired Dining,” which opens around 7 am for coffee and runs a lunch menu from about 11 am. In season this becomes the local pizza and pasta spot after 2 pm (www.marinawoodfireddining.co.nz ). Just outside the office is the marina garden with tables. The Tutukaka General Store (in neighboring buildings) has basic groceries and takeaway food (open 7 days). The big attraction is the Whangārei Deep Sea Anglers Club (“Game Club”) across the boardwalk – it has an angler’s bar and bistro overlooking the harbour, usually open from midday on weekends and Friday evenings (www.whangareideepseaanglersclub.co.nz ). If it’s open, you can enjoy local seafood dishes or a bar snack with expansive water views (also a pool table and an elevated “Lookout” deck). There is also a small liquor outlet (bottle shop) in Tutukaka village for take-away beer or wine.
Facilities: Public toilets and pay-to-use showers are located in a block beneath the marina office (access via security code when open). Showers cost about NZ$2 for five minutes (www.tutukaka.co.nz ). A coin-laundry room is next door (tokens sold at the office). The boat end of the marina has a 24/7 **fuel jetty** with GoFuel card or credit payment (diesel and 95 octane petrol) (www.tutukaka.co.nz ). Right next to it is a free sewage pump-out station for boats (www.tutukaka.co.nz ). Fittings at each berth include fresh water taps and electricity (usually 16 A; select berths offer 32 A). Keep in mind, shore power use is metered and you must have a valid electrical WOF or tag on file (www.tutukaka.co.nz ) (www.tutukaka.co.nz ). For non-boaters, the office sells ice, maps, and basic gear. Cell phone reception is generally strong (4G/LTE) on the wharves – many visitors rely on smartphones for directions or weather updates. Accessibility: Most boardwalks and facilities are wheelchair-accessible (flat with ramps at the ends). Signage and shower/toilet doors are wide. Notably, Dive! Tutukaka (next to the marina) is NZ’s first PADI Adaptive Service Center, meaning their ramped docks and enlarged doorways are designed for wheelchairs (time.com ). Marina staff welcome inclusivity; if you need help accessing a pontoon or restroom, just ask. Other amenities: There is no full gift shop, but SCUBA filling stations for air are located behind the café (www.tutukaka.co.nz ). A small hardware/drug conscene is a few steps away (Tutukaka Marine shop). Recycling bins are in a fenced compound near the office (coins required for general waste) (www.tutukaka.co.nz ). WIFI is not provided marina-wide, but the office and cafés may offer a hotspot or a password on request. Pro tip: Drop any rubbish in the correct bins – the marina has a waste-oil station and recycling center (www.tutukaka.co.nz ). Also, “don’t forget your ID!” – liquor and certain club venues require photo ID (you must be 18+ to drink alcohol in bars).
Nearby Amenities
Just beyond the marina, the local village and coast offer everything a visitor might need. Dining: In addition to the marina’s own eateries, the Tutukaka strip (a few minutes’ walk) has more options. The most acclaimed restaurant is **Schnappa Rock**, a bush-surrounded open-air eatery about 500 m from the marina, known for farm-to-table cuisine using Northland produce (www.schnapparock.co.nz ). (It won Destination Venue of the Year in NZ Hospitality Awards 2025 (www.schnapparock.co.nz ).) For casual bites, the marina café (Marina Woodfired) covers pizza and brunch (www.marinawoodfireddining.co.nz ), and “Village Eats” and nearby takeaways offer burgers and fish & chips. If you plan a special evening, Schnappa Rock does tasting menus by reservation (seasonally). Accommodation: The Quality Hotel Oceans (1 Marina Road) is a large waterfront hotel right opposite the marina. It has modern rooms and balconies overlooking the harbour (www.oceansresorthotel.co.nz ). Other lodging options include seaside cottages, B&Bs, and holiday homes along the coast road (book online). In high season, mid-week deals are rare – you’ll want to reserve in advance. After-hours & late transport: Tutukaka village is quite small, so nightlife is limited to the bar at the anglers club or the hotel bar (both close by 10–11pm). No public buses run after dark to Tutukaka – the last shuttles return to Whangarei mid-afternoon (coastalcommuter.co.nz ) (www.rome2rio.com ), so plan a taxi pick-up if staying late. Store hours are usually 8 am–8 pm (earlier on Sundays). If you’re driving to Whangārei after a night out, AA maps or Google show the 30 min coastal route via SH12; it is well signposted even at night.
Other services: There is a small petrol station in Tutukaka village on Tutukaka Road (for cars). The nearest hospital and major supermarket are in Whangarei (20 min away). Banks and ATMs are also in Whangarei – note that in Tutukaka most businesses now accept cards, but small stallholders or market vendors sometimes prefer cash. Local taxis can be called (coastalcommuter.co.nz, or phone numbers listed at the marina board). A car-rental desk (Budget, Avis etc.) is in Whangarei for any breakdowns. Lastly, if you have a drone, note that taking off near people requires consent – but generally the skies are clear (there are no flight restrictions over the water). The whole area feels rural, so it’s best to book critical services (lodging, tours) ahead of major holidays. Even so, Tutukaka retains a relaxed pace – shops are sparse, so expect short lines and friendly service rather than slick efficiency.
What Makes This Venue Special
Tutukaka Marina’s magic is in its blend of natural beauty, maritime heritage and community spirit. Architecturally, nothing here is flashy – low-slung timber and concrete structures ensure the harbour view stays dominant. But the scenery more than makes up for it: the New Zealand sky, the distant Poor Knights, and the golden evenings by the water give it a sense of ceremony. Its historic significance is subtle yet real: the marina was developed by local effort in the 1970s and is still managed by a modest trust. The Whangārei Deep Sea Anglers Club (based here since 1973 (www.tutukaka.co.nz )) is one of New Zealand’s oldest gamefishing clubs; in fact Tutukaka anglers helped found the national big-game fishing council in 1957. Fishing trophies from years past line the walls of the clubhouse, so when local sailors swap sea stories there it feels like stepping into Kiwi boating lore. Ecologically, Tutukaka Marina looks out onto the celebrated Poor Knights Marine Reserve – divers call it “the best subtropical diving in the world. (www.boaties.co.nz )” Many ocean-goers have childhood memories of visiting the rainbow reefs offshore, and the marina is the launch-pad for that adventure. Twice in the 21st century it even made global news – for example in 2024 a resourcing award gave the local dive shop (based here) special status in adaptive scuba accessibility (time.com ). On the cultural side, the marina sits amid Ngatiwai Iwi territory, though it is mostly a tourism and boater spot. Locals (and Pākehā pioneers) have always nicknamed Tutukaka “Pink Tut” due to the copper-coloured rocks, and there is a visible Māori influence in names and artworks around (for example many vessels bear carved bows and Māori names). Perhaps above all, visitors say Tutukaka Marina feels like a neighborhood party by the ocean – a place where the Pacific breezes mingle with the aroma of wood-fired pizza or the sizzle of fresh snapper on the grill. Every casual sailor or camper at this harbour will tell you: the backdrop (sea, islands, lighthouse nearby) is as legendary as the laid-back Kiwi hospitality on offer. It is why divers, anglers and families come year after year to make memories here – from witnessing native dolphin pods playing off the dock to cheering at a tournament prize-giving under the stars. The unique combination of practical facilities and a warm atmosphere is what keeps Tutukaka Marina feeling special to both visiting mariner and Northland local alike (www.tutukaka.co.nz ) (www.boaties.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Most of Tutukaka Marina is wheelchair-friendly. The walkways and docks are smooth and ramped. Restrooms and showers have push-button entry. The local staff are accustomed to mobility needs: for example Dive! Tutukaka (a dive shop on-site) has enlarged doors and sloped floors (time.com ). That said, floating pontoons do tilt during high waves, and any boat ramp has gratings, so use handrails and take your time. Tip: If wheelchair or stroller users need help boarding a charter, let the crew know in advance – they have specialized gear (hoists) for people with limited mobility.
Weather and Clothing: The harbour is semi-sheltered from the easterlies, but settled weather can change quickly. Always check the marine forecast for Tutukaka (winds off Northland can whip up sea fog or afternoon gusts). Come prepared for sun: NZ sunlight is strong, so bring sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. In summer you may want a light rain shell or fleece for the breeze after dark. In winter months (June–Aug), it can be cool and rainier; coats and closed shoes are recommended. Beaches nearby can be exposed to southerlies, so if weather worsens, stick to the marina forecourt.
What to Bring: If you plan to walk the docks, wear closed-toe shoes with grip (no skinny heels on planks). A reusable water bottle is handy (tap water is safe and free). For outdoor events, a picnic blanket or folding chair can make grass seating more comfortable. Binoculars are great for dolphin- or bird-watching. If you’re diving or snorkeling, ensure your gear is reserved (there are hire shops nearby). Bring cash ($NZ) if you want to purchase fish at the Saturday market (www.nzrentacar.co.nz ) or tip service staff; otherwise most vendors take cards. Footwear and a bag for rubbish are useful – help keep the area tidy.
Age Restrictions and Policies: Tutukaka Marina is family-friendly and open to all ages. Children under 5 are free for events; they must be supervised near the water. The Deep Sea Anglers Club functions (bar areas) strictly enforce the 18+ age limit for alcohol – children and teens can be in the dining area but not in the bar at night. Smoking is generally allowed outdoors but prohibited inside buildings. No pets are allowed inside the café or on boats (service dogs excepted), although well-behaved dogs on a leash are usually tolerated on the marina walkways. If in doubt, ask a staff member. Bicycles and scooters can be ridden in the parking area but not on the docks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Visitors often forget the tide when planning coastal walks – for example, the Tutukaka Lighthouse track is cut off at high tide (www.nzrentacar.co.nz ). Always time any Island or headland walks for low tide. Also, don’t try to park on the boat ramp – it’s ticketed by council and needed clear for boats (www.northlandnz.com ). Recreational boats forgetting to carry a berth insurance are not allowed to moor here (www.tutukaka.co.nz ), so if you’re chartering a boat check that your operator has insurance. One more tip: the marina code of conduct forbids loud parties on jetties after 10pm – the area is quiet in summer evenings. Lastly, many small shops close on Sundays; plan church visits or supermarket runs in Whangarei on Sunday mornings.
Insider Advice:
Arrive early Saturday (around 9am) for the **Seafare Fish Market** on J-Pier (www.nzrentacar.co.nz ) if you want snapper, grass carp or crayfish at wholesale prices. The freshest catches go fast.
If you’re into sailing, ask about the marina’s youth sailing club – they often let visitors watch training sessions on Thursday afternoons (summer).
Since the area has no meter, driving down at sunset to watch the sky and the harbour lights is a popular local ritual. Many say it feels like a mini ‘Māori dusk ceremony’ as birds flock to roost.
For a bit of local color, look for the carved Māori waka prow on one boat (reflecting Ngātiwai heritage).
Download a marine channel app on your phone if you’re boatie; the marina uses VHF Channel 07 for radio comms. (www.boaties.co.nz ) (This is mainly for boats, but if you visit the office the staff will tell you the docking procedures by radio.)
If the weather rolls in and the marina swells, less sheltered inshore spots (e.g. Matapouri Bay) often have calmer waters. The marina anchorage is generally safe at all tides, but offshore at Neap tides the depth drops to about 1.9 m (www.boaties.co.nz ) – not a concern for small tinnies, but deep-keel yachts should use nearby Dodgem Road anchorage.
Is there an entry fee or tickets required to visit Tutukaka Marina?
No. Tutukaka Marina is open to the public at no cost. You can walk around the docks and waterfront freely. Community events like the Twilight Market are also **free admission**, as confirmed by the event listing (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). (Of course, if you join a paid tour, charter or club event then ticketing is through that service provider.)
How much does parking cost at Tutukaka Marina, and where is it?
Parking for visitors is convenient and **normally free**. There is a public carpark adjacent to the marina office. The 2024 market information notes “parking is available in and around the marina carpark” (www.northlandnz.com ), with no meter payment mentioned. Just be respectful: keep the boat ramp area clear and follow any signage. On busy days you may be directed to extra space along nearby streets.
What are the opening hours of Tutukaka Marina facilities?
The waterfront itself is always accessible, but specific services have set hours. The Marina Office is typically open 8am–5pm. In summer (Dec–Mar) it operates **7 days a week**, whereas in winter it’s usually **Mon–Fri only** (www.tutukaka.co.nz ). Shops like the marina café and general store generally follow similar hours. The Deep Sea Anglers Club (restaurant/bar) opens around midday on weekends and some weekdays. It’s wise to arrive before dusk, as many amenities close by 8–9pm.
Can I bring my dog to Tutukaka Marina?
Yes, **dogs are generally allowed** on the marina grounds but must be kept on a leash. They should stay on the paved areas or grass and not roam on the jetties. Owners must pick up after their pets. Note that dogs are not allowed inside cafés, shops or inside the Anglers Club building. As always near water, keep pets from jumping off the docks – it can be dangerous with boat traffic around.
Is Tutukaka Marina wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the marina is largely accessible. The parking lot, lawn and boardwalks are flat and have ramped edges, making them suitable for wheelchairs and mobility aids. Facilities such as toilets and showers have accessible stalls. Importantly, the on-site dive centre (Dive! Tutukaka) is specifically designed for accessibility, with widened doors and ramped floors (time.com ). If you need assistance boarding any vessels or accessing specific areas, the marina and dive staff are usually happy to help.
Where can I find bathrooms and showers at Tutukaka Marina?
Public restrooms (toilets) and showers are located in a block beneath the marina office building. Access is via a security code (available from the office). Showers are coin-operated (about NZ$2 for 5 minutes) (www.tutukaka.co.nz ). These facilities are clean and well-maintained; there’s often hot water. The marina also has a sewage pump-out for boats on the fuel dock (free to use) (www.tutukaka.co.nz ).
What restaurants and cafes are at Tutukaka Marina or nearby?
The marina itself has a small cluster of eateries. Below the office is **Marina Woodfired Dining** (a café serving breakfast, coffee, pizza and pies) (www.marinawoodfireddining.co.nz ). On the water’s edge is the Anglers Club’s Bar & Bistro – on weekends they serve a casual fish and chips menu with a harbour view (www.whangareideepseaanglersclub.co.nz ). A few steps away in Tutukaka village are the general store and other takeaways. A short walk (500m) will take you to **Schnappa Rock**, a popular waterfront restaurant praised for its local cuisine (www.schnapparock.co.nz ) (book in advance for dinner). In summer you can also find food trucks at the Twilight Market on the marina green.
Are there hotels or motels near Tutukaka Marina?
Yes, the most convenient lodging is the Quality Hotel Oceans Tutukaka, located at 1 Marina Road right across from the marina. It offers modern rooms, some with balconies overlooking the water (www.oceansresorthotel.co.nz ). Other accommodations include holiday homes and cottages along Tutukaka and Matapouri roads. Because Tutukaka is small, most visitors either stay at this hotel or in Airbnbs or lodges in the bay area. Bookings in summer should be made well in advance, as accommodations fill up quickly.
How many boats can Tutukaka Marina accommodate?
Tutukaka Marina has about **235 berths** for private boats, ranging from around 10 m to 20 m in length (www.boaties.co.nz ). All are floating concrete pontoons with power and water hookups. The marina can handle vessels drawing roughly 1.9 m at low tide. (If your boat is wider or very tall, check with the marina office, but most coastal yachts and fishing boats fit easily.)
Is there public transport or a shuttle service to Tutukaka Marina?
There is no regular municipal bus to Tutukaka. However, Whangarei Coastal Commuter operates a shuttle two times daily between Whangarei and Tutukaka Marina (sometimes called the dive shuttle). It typically departs Whangarei in the morning and returns early evening. The trip is about 45 minutes and fares are around NZ$25–27 (www.rome2rio.com ). You must book the shuttle in advance by phone or online. Alternatively, taxis can be hired in Whangarei for a 30–40 minute drive (roughly NZ$100).
Can I catch a boat ferry or cruise from Tutukaka Marina?
There is no public ferry service from the marina. However, several local operators run private boat tours and charters from Tutukaka. Dive tour boats offering daily trips to the Poor Knights Islands depart from here. Fishing charter boats also operate daily. To go to the Poor Knights you must book a seat on a licensed charter (e.g. Dive! Tutukaka or Dolphin Discoveries). These are not walk-on ferries but full excursions – reservations are needed. Occasionally you’ll also find sunset or wildlife cruises advertised during summer, often arranged through local tour companies.
Is there an ATM at Tutukaka Marina?
No, there is no ATM at the marina itself. The nearest ATMs are in Tutukaka village or Whangarei. If you need cash, plan to withdraw it in Whangarei before you arrive or sit on the marina’s card machines (most vendors take cards). It’s useful to have some cash for market stalls and small purchases. The Tutukaka General Store does provide basic cash-out with purchases.
What are the depth and size limits for boats at Tutukaka Marina?
The marina’s approach channel is about 1.9 m deep at low tide (www.boaties.co.nz ). There is no large @cruise ship dock – it’s geared for private yachts, fishing and dive boats. Berths range in length from about 10 m to 20 m. If you have an unusually large or wide boat, check with the marina office for berth availability. In high swells, very deep-keeled boats might prefer anchorage outside the breakwater. Generally though, most pleasure boats, sportsfishers and commercial dive boats up to ~15–17 m use it without issue.
Where can I catch the weather, tides, and marine information for Tutukaka?
The marina office posts local tide charts and weather notices on its bulletin board (or ask an attendant). Locally, Weather and Tides info is provided online by NIWA for Tutukaka Harbour (www.tutukaka.co.nz ). Also Smart-phone apps and websites provide tide predictions for Tutukaka. A good rule: low tide is about 1–2 hours after the tides at the Bay of Islands, since Tutukaka is a small harbour entrance. Weather-wise, check the NZ MetService forecast for Northland East or the “Tutukaka Coast” district. On VHF radio, Safe Boating Channel 16 monitors gale warnings. When boatie-readying, observe any red/green can markers at the marina entrance.
What should I avoid doing or bringing to Tutukaka Marina?
Avoid blocking the boat ramp or docks with vehicles or trailers (it\u2019s illegal). Don\u2019t feed seagulls or wildlife; discard trash properly (recycling bins are there (www.tutukaka.co.nz )). Open alcohol is only allowed where licensed (i.e., Anglers Club, Schnappa Rock) – drinking on the docks or lawn is not permitted. Burnable BBQs or fireworks are banned on-site for safety. When chartering a boat, don\u2019t expect to jump off the stern into the water unless it’s part of the cruise\u2019s plan. Remember Tutukaka has an island reserve – you cannot drop anchor anywhere without permission. Finally, general common sense: be kind to staff, fill out any boat ramp passes (via QR code) when launching, and check any event rules (e.g., no glass on the grass at markets).
