Discover Parua Bay: Skatepark, Coastal Walk and Sailing

If you’re looking for a hotel in Parua Bay, you can plan your trip around local activities. The skatepark has features for different skill levels; Motukiore Island has an easy coastal walk, and there are boat ramps and learn-to-sail programmes on the water. A Sunday market, shops and cafés add to the options in the village. This gives you three ways to decide what to focus on during your stay: activities on land, activities on the water and village life.

Skatepark and Coastal Walk

Parua Bay’s skatepark was built in the reserve area next to the Parua Bay Community Centre and completed in November 2025. Its features cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced riders. A gravel path connects the skatepark to the car park at the nearby Community Centre. Public toilets are located at the entrance; if you need them for accessibility planning, check in advance that they meet your requirements.

The Motukiore Island Walk is a pleasant, easy coastal walk and is suitable for a summer family outing. Motukiore Island is a 5-hectare recreation reserve. The walk starts on Whangārei Heads Road, just past the Pines Golf Course; a car park is located 200 metres beyond the start of the walk.

When choosing between the land-based activities, the walk is suitable for a summer family outing, while the skatepark has features for different skill levels. The parking arrangements also differ: the skatepark is connected by a gravel path to the car park at the Community Centre; for the walk, the car park is 200 metres beyond the start of the walk.

Boat Ramp and Sailing Options

Parua Bay has boat launching ramps. Facilities for launching trailer boats provide access to the inner harbour, the harbour entrance, Bream Bay and the coast to the north.

Sail Northland Trust offers learn-to-sail programmes from Parua Bay; juniors are welcome at the Sunday sessions. As programme arrangements may change, check the current schedule before planning.

The water-based options suit different interests: facilities for trailer boats provide access to the areas listed, while learn-to-sail programmes are for those interested in learning to sail.

Market, Cafés and History

Parua Bay’s Sunday market is held every Sunday from 9 am to 1 pm. If you’re planning a visit around the market’s hours, check the current schedule beforehand.

Parua Bay village has shops and cafés; by the water, Parua Bay Tavern serves food and refreshments. As individual businesses and hospitality offerings may change, check current opening hours before making a special trip.

The historic Parua Bay Tavern originated as a dairy company and was converted into an upscale hotel in the 1940s.

Discover more destinations: Kauri, Langs Beach, Whangarei, Ngunguru, Tutukaka, Ruatangata West, Whangarei Heads, Helena Bay

For the main travel overview: Whangarei District.