Awana Bay

Awana Bay is a beach on the east coast of Great Barrier Island in the Hauraki Gulf of New Zealand's Auckland Region. The beach is used by both swimmers and surfers alike.[1] It is deep-sloping, with a risk of both strong waves and rip currents.[2] There are several peaks for intermediate to expert surfers, including a good left-hander at the northern end and a good left-hander at the southern end.[3]

There is a Department of Conservation campsite at the bay at the northern end of the bay,[1] about 300 metres from the beach.[4] It can accommodate up to 120 people and is staffed for one month each year between Christmas Day and Auckland Anniversary Day.[4][5]

The bay has a sand dune and estuary,[4] and is an important breeding nesting ground for the endangered Brown Teal and Dotterel.[1]

The area is only accessible on a narrow gravel road, and vehicle access directly on to the beach is not permitted.[4] There are no rubbish bins,[4] and dogs are banned.[2]

The Awana Bay area mostly consists of farmland.[4] It includes some sacred sites of Ngāti Rehua Ngati Wai ki Aotea.[6]