Murdering Beach, Dunedin, New Zealand

Whareakeake (AKA Murdering Beach), Dunedin

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Last Updated on October 30, 2022 by Gia Kristel Algie

As well as having one of the more interesting names, Murdering Beach, now officially known as Whareakeake, is also a good place to visit for beach views and quiet walks. You have to drive down a dodgy road to get there, making it one of the more difficult beaches in Dunedin to access, but don’t let that put you off!

Getting There

The turnoff to Whareakeake is near the Heyward Point Track, one of the top hikes in Dunedin. To get there from town, first head to Port Chalmers and then up the hill towards Orokonui. You’ll see the turnoff (Heyward Point Road) just before Orokonui and from there you’ll see Murdering Beach Road to the left.

READ MORE: Wondering what to do in Dunedin? Check out our post!

View above Murdering Beach, Dunedin, New Zealand

You’ll get some nice views of Whareakeake from the road but there aren’t too many places to stop. The road is rough and steep and can be a bit scary in cars that are best suited to smooth city streets. Still though, it’s not too bad, and you shouldn’t have to much trouble (don’t blame me if you do though!).

The road to Murdering Beach, Dunedin, New Zealand

Whareakeake

The beach got its name from a battle between Maori and the British in 1817. Today it’s a rather peaceful spot with nice white sand and rolling waves. The beach is bookended by rugged headlands making it a scenic spot for a stroll. There isn’t too much to do there, although you might see some wildlife if you’re lucky.

READ MORE: Check out list of the best things to do in Dunedin

Murdering Beach, Dunedin, New ZealandCliffs at Murdering Beach, Dunedin, New Zealand

Other Things to Do Nearby

Whareakeake is a good little side trip for people visiting Orokonui Ecosanctuary (where you’ll see heaps of native birds), the Heyward Point Track or Dunedin’s more popular northern beaches, including Long Beach and Purakaunui Beach.

This side of the harbour isn’t as iconic as the Otago Peninsula side but it’s just as nice, and you’ll get some awesome views when driving the winding hilltop roads. This is also the start of the scenic route to Oamaru, which is one of our favourite coastal drives in New Zealand.

Are you planning a trip to New Zealand? Check out our South Island Travel Guide!

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Jon Algie

I'm a South Island local -- born in Timaru and raised in Dunedin. I left the island in 2006 and returned 10 years later. Having seen a good chunk of the world I realised how special this place is -- the most beautiful island in the world! Seven years (and almost 400 posts) later I'm still helping locals and tourists alike plan their trips around the South Island.
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