Last updated July 2026
Just a short drive north of Gisborne, Makorori Beach offers a long sandy shoreline backed by headlands and native bush. The beach stretches roughly 4 kilometres along State Highway 35 and attracts surfers, swimmers and walkers year-round. Northern sections provide gentler waves suitable for beginners, while the southern point delivers longer rides for more experienced surfers. A short headland track links Makorori with neighbouring Wainui and Okitu beaches, adding scenic walking options. Visitors should check tide times, water quality after rain and respect the environment, as there are no lifeguards on duty.
Practical Information
| Location | Approximately 10–12 km north of Gisborne city centre along SH35 |
| Access | Sealed road from Gladstone Road via Wainui Road and Whangara Road |
| Parking | Free main car park at base of Makorori Hill plus smaller northern lots |
| Toilets | Available at northern and southern car parks |
| Lifeguards | None |
| Freedom camping | Permitted for certified self-contained vehicles only in designated area (3 nights maximum) |
| Beach length | Approximately 4 km |
| Headland walk | 30-minute return track linking Makorori and Wainui/Okitu beaches |
About Makorori Beach
Makorori Beach lies on the eastern seaboard of New Zealand’s North Island, facing the South Pacific Ocean. The beach combines sandy stretches with rocky reefs and is part of a continuous coastal strip that includes Wainui Beach to the south. It forms one of three nationally significant surf breaks in the Gisborne District.
The northern end offers beach breaks that suit learners, while Makorori Point at the southern end produces consistent point-break waves that work across a range of tides. Offshore winds from the north-northwest and swells from the south-southeast produce the best conditions. Submerged rocks appear at low tide, so surfers and swimmers should check local tide tables and swell forecasts before entering the water.
Gisborne District Council monitors recreational water quality at Makorori Settlement during summer months. Most readings meet safe-swimming standards, yet bacterial levels can rise after heavy rain due to stormwater runoff. Visitors are advised to avoid swimming for 48 hours following significant rainfall.
Native bush reserves such as Okitu Bush Scenic Reserve sit adjacent to the beach, providing short walks through kohekohe and pūriri forest. The area supports seabirds and occasional marine life sightings, including dolphins. Freedom camping is restricted to the designated self-contained vehicle zone in the main car park.
Makorori Headland Walk
The Makorori Headland track crosses Te Kūrae o Makorori and connects Wainui/Okitu Beach with Makorori Beach. The easy 30-minute return walk offers panoramic coastal views and passes through coastal scrub and native bush. The trail starts near the Okitu Bush Scenic Reserve car park on SH35 and finishes at the northern end of Makorori Beach. Care is required when entering or exiting the car park due to fast-moving traffic on the state highway.
The route suits walkers of most fitness levels and provides opportunities to observe seabirds and coastal vegetation. Informal picnic spots exist along the way, though no facilities are provided on the track itself. The walk forms part of the broader coastal trail network that includes the sealed Gisborne to Wainui Beach Cycle Trail.
Surfing and Swimming
Makorori Beach is renowned for its variety of surf breaks. Makorori Point delivers reliable point-break waves, while the central and northern sections offer beach breaks suitable for beginners and intermediates. Local surf reports note that the break works at most tides, with the best conditions on south-southeast swells and north-northwest winds.
Swimmers enjoy the clear waters on calm days, yet hidden rocks and occasional rips require caution. No lifeguard service operates at the beach. Always swim with a companion, check conditions and avoid the water after heavy rain when water quality may be affected.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the long sandy beach, consistent surf and easy access from Gisborne. Many highlight the scenic headland walk for its coastal views and note that the northern end suits less experienced surfers. Reviewers frequently mention the free parking and basic toilets while advising others to bring supplies and watch for rocks at low tide.
Walkers describe the headland track as straightforward and rewarding, with good opportunities for birdwatching and photography. Campers appreciate the designated freedom-camping area but stress the need for self-contained vehicles and respect for the three-night limit. Several note the absence of lifeguards and recommend checking water quality updates before swimming.
Where to Learn More
Gisborne District Council – Freedom Camping: Details on designated camping areas and rules at Makorori car park.
Gisborne District Council – Can I Swim Here?: Current water quality monitoring information and safe-swimming guidance.
Department of Conservation – Okitu Bush Scenic Reserve Walk: Track description and access information for the adjacent reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is freedom camping allowed at Makorori Beach?
Yes, certified self-contained vehicles may freedom camp in the designated area of the main car park for a maximum of three nights.
Are there toilets at Makorori Beach?
Public toilets are located at both the northern and southern car parks.
Is the headland walk suitable for beginners?
The 30-minute return track is described as easy and suitable for most fitness levels.
Are lifeguards on duty at Makorori Beach?
No lifeguard service operates at the beach.
When is the best time to surf Makorori Point?
The point break works across a range of tides, with optimal conditions on south-southeast swells and north-northwest winds.
Is swimming safe after rain?
Water quality can decline after heavy rainfall. Check the latest Gisborne District Council monitoring results and avoid swimming for at least 48 hours following significant rain.
Can I walk from Makorori Beach to Wainui Beach?
Yes, the Makorori Headland track provides a direct walking link between the two beaches.
Is fishing permitted at Makorori Beach?
Recreational fishing is allowed subject to national and regional regulations; check current rules with Fish & Game New Zealand or the Ministry for Primary Industries.
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