Last updated July 2026
Whites Bay (also known as Pukatea Bay) is the closest sandy swimming beach to Blenheim, a sheltered northeast-facing cove roughly 8 km north of the city on the edge of the Marlborough Sounds. The bay offers a sandy beach suitable for swimming and beach activities, with a DOC conservation campsite set in bush behind it. Access is via Port Underwood Road, and the site supports walking, fishing, swimming and kayaking. The campsite operates year-round with bookings required, and the gate is locked overnight during peak season from Labour Weekend to Easter.
Practical Information
| Location | 8 km north of Blenheim via Port Underwood Road |
| Access | Turn off SH1 at Tuamarina into Hunter Rd, then Pembers Rd/Rarangi Rd and Rarangi Beach Rd; sharp left into Port Underwood Rd |
| Lifeguards | Patrolled by Rārangi Surf Life Saving Club on weekends during summer |
| Facilities | Flush toilets, cold showers, changing area |
| Camping | DOC conservation campsite; unpowered sites only; 30 sites across zones |
| Campsite booking | Required; book online via DOC; same-day bookings possible until 8 pm if available |
| Gate hours | Locked 9 pm–7 am during peak season (Labour Weekend to Easter) |
| Cost | Day visit free; camping fees apply (adult $15/night, child $7.50/night) |
| Dogs | Check current DOC restrictions |
| Other rules | No vehicles on beach; no fires |
About Whites Bay
Whites Bay lies on the coast between Rarangi and the outer Marlborough Sounds, providing a sheltered sandy beach backed by native bush. The English name honours Arper Ailsworth (known as Black Jack White), an American whaler who settled in the area in the 19th century after jumping ship. Māori know the bay as Pukatea Bay, after the pukatea trees that grow there.
The beach curves gently and offers relatively calm water due to its northeast aspect. It is popular for family swimming and beach time, with a gradual shelf in the main swimming area. The adjacent DOC campsite sits in bush and provides basic facilities including flush toilets and cold showers.
Bookings are essential, especially over the Christmas–January period, and open well in advance through the DOC website. The site supports a range of activities including walking on nearby tracks, fishing and kayaking from the beach.
Swimming at Whites Bay
Whites Bay provides a supervised swimming option near Blenheim with lifeguard patrols on weekends during summer by the Rārangi Surf Life Saving Club. Water clarity is generally good, though visitors should avoid swimming for two to three days after heavy rain due to potential runoff. The beach shelves gradually, suiting families, but rocky areas at the ends of the bay should be avoided.
Camping at Whites Bay
The DOC conservation campsite offers unpowered sites in three zones behind the beach. Fees are $15 per adult and $7.50 per child per night, with infants free. The DOC Campsite Pass is accepted. Bookings must be made online in advance, and the gate is locked overnight during peak season, so plan arrivals and departures accordingly. No fires are permitted.
Walking Tracks at Whites Bay
Several tracks start near the beach and campsite. The Pukatea Walk loops through bush and is noted for glow worms visible at night. The Monkey Bay Walk follows the southern headland with coastal views. The Rarangi to Whites Bay Track provides a coastal connection between the two beaches, suitable as a return or shuttle walk. The Blackjack Track climbs into the hills and links with other routes.
Mountain Biking at Whites Bay
The Whites Bay Loop Track offers a challenging downhill mountain bike descent through native bush above the bay. Riders typically ascend via the Port Underwood Road access and descend toward the beach. The trail features steep sections and requires good fitness and skill; it is not suitable for beginners.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the sheltered sandy beach, convenient DOC campsite right behind it, and the peaceful setting ideal for families. Many highlight the glow worm walk as a special evening activity and note the need to book the campsite early for summer.
Reviewers describe Whites Bay as a clean, uncrowded local spot with good swimming and easy access to coastal walks. The combination of beach, camping and tracks makes it a favourite for day trips and short stays from Blenheim.
Where to Learn More
DOC Whites Bay Campsite page: official details on bookings, fees, facilities and access.
Marlborough NZ – Whites Bay: local tourism overview and visitor information.
Rārangi Surf Life Saving Club: current lifeguard patrol information for the beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Whites Bay from Blenheim?
Approximately 8 km north; the drive takes 15–25 minutes via Tuamarina and Port Underwood Road.
Do I need to book the campsite?
Yes, bookings are required and essential for peak periods; make them online via the DOC website.
Is there a day visit fee?
No, day visits to the beach are free; camping fees apply only for overnight stays.
Are lifeguards present?
Lifeguards patrol on weekends during summer; check current schedules with the Rārangi Surf Life Saving Club.
Can I mountain bike here?
Yes, the Whites Bay Loop Track provides a challenging downhill MTB route through the bush.
What walking options are available?
Tracks include the Pukatea Walk (glow worms), Monkey Bay Walk, Rarangi to Whites Bay Track and Blackjack Track.
Are dogs allowed?
Check current DOC restrictions before bringing dogs.
What facilities are at the campsite?
Flush toilets, cold showers and a changing area; sites are unpowered.
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