Rainbow Warrior Memorial
A poignant memorial overlooking Matauri Bay, commemorating the Greenpeace ship Rainbow Warrior with breathtaking coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer views, cooler hike
Rainbow Warrior Memorial
Best Time
Clearer views, cooler hike
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A poignant memorial overlooking Matauri Bay, commemorating the Greenpeace ship Rainbow Warrior with breathtaking coastal views.
"The walk is steep but the views are absolutely fabulous and the memorial is pretty special too!"
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path to the memorial is steep and can be slippery, especially after rain. Good footwear is essential!
🗺️ Look for the Info Board
Signage can be sparse. Head into the motorcamp and find the information board to locate the start of the track.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rainbow Warrior Memorial Lookout
Overlooking Matauri Bay
A poignant memorial with stunning panoramic views of Matauri Bay and the surrounding coastline.
Matauri Bay Views
From the memorial lookout
Experience breathtaking vistas of the turquoise waters and picturesque landscape of Matauri Bay.
Historical Significance
At the memorial site
Reflect on the history of the Rainbow Warrior, Greenpeace's iconic ship, and its impactful story.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Steep Hike, Stunning Reward
Navigating Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path to the memorial is steep and can be slippery, especially after rain. Good footwear is essential!
🗺️ Look for the Info Board
Signage can be sparse. Head into the motorcamp and find the information board to locate the start of the track.
📸 Capture the Vista
The views from the lookout are spectacular. Bring your camera to capture the beauty of Matauri Bay.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The uphill walk can be tiring, so bring water, especially on warmer days.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The path to the memorial is steep and can be slippery, especially after rain. Good footwear is essential!
🗺️ Look for the Info Board
Signage can be sparse. Head into the motorcamp and find the information board to locate the start of the track.
📸 Capture the Vista
The views from the lookout are spectacular. Bring your camera to capture the beauty of Matauri Bay.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The uphill walk can be tiring, so bring water, especially on warmer days.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Rainbow Warrior Memorial for its breathtaking views of Matauri Bay and its poignant historical significance. The steep hike is a common point of discussion, with most agreeing the effort is well worth the stunning reward. Some note that access and signage could be clearer.
"Underwater Adventures and Historical Significance
"Matauri Bay was a truly unforgettable experience! We had the opportunity to go scuba diving in its crystal-clear waters and were amazed by the vibrant marine life. The Rainbow Warrior memorial was also incredibly moving and informative. A must-visit for anyone looking for a beautiful and meaningful destination.""
Life In
"Short walk up the hill to the memorial, which is also rewarded with a great view.
Not well sign posted until the board at the start of the track, you need to walk thru the camping ground, which has signs "no entry unless a registered camper". We ignored that, after parking before you enter the camp ground drive way. Well worth the visit."
Dan McCormick
"The view is stunning up here and the memorial is quite the sight too. You definitely have to work for the view though as its a pretty consistent uphill but it's definitely worth it."
Bray W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The memorial is located near Matauri Bay. You'll likely need to drive to the area. Access to the walking track often involves passing through a motorcamp, so be prepared for that.
Parking is usually available before entering the motorcamp driveway. From there, you'll proceed on foot.
The primary access is via a walking track that starts within or near the motorcamp. It's a steep, uphill climb.
Public transport options to this specific area can be limited. Driving is generally the most convenient way to access the Rainbow Warrior Memorial.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no admission fees to visit the Rainbow Warrior Memorial itself. It's a free-to-access historical site.
The memorial is an outdoor site and is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no set opening or closing times.
The walking track leading to the memorial is free to use. However, you may need to walk through a motorcamp, which might have its own access policies.
While the memorial is always there, it's best visited during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the views.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The walk is described as short but steep. Expect it to take around 15-30 minutes each way, depending on your fitness level.
The walk is consistently uphill and can be steep in places, requiring a moderate level of fitness.
You'll find the memorial itself, which is quite a sight, and incredible panoramic views of Matauri Bay. There's also a stone map indicating the ship's final position.
There are no specific facilities like restrooms or cafes directly at the memorial lookout. You'll find these amenities in nearby Matauri Bay.
The steepness of the walk might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Supervise children closely.
📸 📸 Photography
The main lookout offers the most iconic views of Matauri Bay. Capture the memorial with the bay as a backdrop for powerful shots.
Mornings often provide clearer light for landscape shots, while late afternoons can offer beautiful golden hour hues.
Drone regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local rules and regulations before flying a drone in the area.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Once at the top, the stunning views of Matauri Bay are a great reward. It's an opportunity to teach children about environmental activism and the importance of protecting our oceans, using the Rainbow Warrior's story as a starting point. Pack snacks and water, as there are no facilities at the lookout.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Combine this visit with exploring the broader Northland region, known for its beautiful beaches and coastal walks. The memorial's location offers a chance to connect with both history and the stunning natural environment of New Zealand's coast.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story of the Rainbow Warrior
Visiting the memorial offers a moment to reflect on environmental activism and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of a cause. The location in Matauri Bay is significant as it's where the ship was eventually scuttled and now serves as an artificial reef, supporting marine life.
This historical context adds a profound layer to the visit, transforming it from a scenic viewpoint into a place of remembrance and reflection on a pivotal moment in environmental history.
The Hike to the Lookout
Navigating to the trailhead can sometimes be a minor adventure in itself. Many visitors report needing to walk through a motorcamp, and initial signage might be minimal. Keep an eye out for an information board once you're on the grounds, which will guide you to the start of the path.
Despite the exertion, the effort is widely considered well worth it. The panoramic vistas of Matauri Bay from the top are consistently praised as breathtaking, making the hike a memorable prelude to the historical significance of the memorial itself.
Social
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