Omaha

This nostalgic beach town sits on a skinny sandspit adjoining the Tāwharanui Peninsula. You can still see how the town has transformed from a humble Auckland getaway to a super-popular beach resort.  

Retro-chic baches, homemade play structures and caravans line one end of the sandspit, while modern holiday homes (some with a bit of glam factor) fill the other end. This medley of old and new is what locals aptly refer to as “old Ōmaha” and “new Ōmaha”.  

Today, Ōmaha has the laid-back vibe of a classic Kiwi summer while still having the essentials. Spend a lazy day strolling around the sandspit and exploring its patchwork of holiday homes. Call into Ōmaha Beach Café & Eatery for a brekkie or browse the homewares and resortwear at the chic boutique next door.  

Pop down to Ōmaha Beach to sink your toes in some of the softest sand in the region or surf-cast for fish from the rocks. This pristine stretch of sand is a popular launching point for boaties, boogie boarders and kiteboarders, too. Want to sink some holes? Golfers will be happy to find the westerly wing of the sandspit is home to an 18-hole course.  

It’s rather fitting Ōmaha means ‘place of plenty’ in te reo Māori. Today, the sandspit is located in the Matakana region, known for its golden beaches, foodie scene and fertile land that sustains a bustling boutique wine industry. Indeed, some holidaymakers have become so enamoured with this slice of paradise that they’ve moved to Ōmaha for good.  

No need to wander too far from Ōmaha for exquisite dining, pristine beaches and must-do activities in the Matakana region. Enjoy an afternoon wandering through the imaginative art-filled gardens at the Sculptureum or scoop up some provisions at the Matakana Village Farmers’ Market on Saturdays. Sip through a paddle of craft beer at The Sawmill Brewery & Smoko House, indulge in a wood-fired pizza from Fired Pizza Company or book a tasting tour of Matakana’s boutique wine country.