Te Kawerau ā Maki

Dominated by imposing volcanic outcrops, Karekare for centuries shelted Maori in its fertile valley. The lush rainforest, the extensive wetlands and rocky coast providing all of life's necessities for these native New Zealanders.

Kauri timber tramway

Colonial arrivals also cultivated the valley as they laboured to extract the timber wealth from the dense Kauri forest.

Anne Robinson glassware
cast tanoa glass bowl

Karekare beach drew early New Zealand painters and photographers all seeking to capture the dramatic essence of this special place. This pursuit continues today with Karekare drawing film makers and a variety of artists whose work in all mediums greatly enriches our community.

The Piano movie
Elle McPearson

You may recognise the beach as location for Jane Campion's triple Oscar award winning movie The Piano, from episodes of the television series Xena Warrior Princess or perhaps from the videos of New Zealand pop icons Crowded House. The sand dunes and beach are also frequently used as backdrops for fashion shoots.

Fortunately this fame has not been allowed to come at the expense of compromising Karekare's essential wilderness feeling. Regular events at the beach include the Karekare surf club competitions and the famous Karekare beach horse races in February each year, evocative of a bygone age.

Waitakere's Eco-City Council carefully plans access and development and this, along with an enduring commitment by the small local community, ensures the preservation of Karekare beach's unique character.