Ngunguru is a picturesque coastal village located in Northland, New Zealand, about 26 kilometers northeast of Whangarei.
The village is situated on the shores of the estuary, where the Ngunguru River flows between the settlement and a long low sandspit into Whangaumu Bay, which stretches southwards. The area is known for its stunning natural beauty, with the Poor Knights Islands, a protected marine reserve, located just off the Ngunguru coast. The name Ngunguru is derived from the Maori language and means "rumbling tides."
Ngunguru is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, with the estuary providing an ideal location for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Visitors can hire a kayak and explore the beautiful estuary, walk amongst the mangroves, or take a stroll along the picturesque waterfront. The village also has a boat ramp, ski lane, general store, takeaways, garage, and doctor’s surgery, making it a convenient location for visitors.
The area has a rich history, with the waka Tunui-a-rangi, which brought Ngai Tahuhu to New Zealand according to traditional accounts, visiting Ngunguru on its way from the Bay of Islands to Whangarei. The area was named by Puhi, captain of another waka, Mataatua. In pre-European times, there was a substantial Maori population in the area, and a large battle was fought on the Ngunguru sandspit between the local Te Waiariki and Waikato tribes led by Te Wherowhero in 1832. Ngunguru is also known for its timber industry, with the village exporting timber and especially roofing. The mill failed financially in 1844, but others succeeded in the industry, and Ngunguru became an important center for the timber trade.
For visitors looking to stay in Ngunguru, there are several options available, including holiday rentals, homes for sale, and licensed real estate agents. The village also has a range of activities on offer, with visitors able to book great deals for Ngunguru Bay and get awesome discounts on activities such as fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.