Location) Margaret Reeve Lane
BBQ) No
Beach type) Sand and shell
Parking) Yes/street parking
Length) 250 metres
Wheelchair Access) No
Category) Beach
Toilet) No
Overview
Dead dog bay also formally known as Okoka Bay is a little secluded tidal beach, this is entered via a short path at the end of Margaret reeve lane.
Why is it called Dead dog bay, you may ask well over 40 years ago a local sculptor was kayaking with his son and they found a dog located on the bay, unfortunately deceased. The sculptor started calling it Dead Dog Bay, and somehow the name stuck and that is what locals call it to this day.
The path starts at the end of Margaret Reeve Lane. Keep to the right along Petersons Track to the beach. The road is private. There is a short steep bit, but the path quickly flattens out. Along the track you will see glimpses of sculpture at the Dead Dog Bay sculpture park.
The track comes out at a mown grass area at the lovely quiet bay. Saltmarsh plants known as oi oi grown on the edge of the lawn, showing the edge where the saltwater reaches at high tide. To the right on the foreshore is a sculpture of a boat form by David McCracken. You can roam around the bay, and enjoy the views out to Putiki Bay and the Tamaki Strait beyond.
A stream comes out at the southern end of the bay. Here there is a route up to Te Whau Drive, which offers amazing views, but it’s a steep climb.
To complete the Okoka Beach Path, return the way you came to Margaret Reeve Lane.
Okoka Beach Path is a there-and-back easy walk.
This is also home to many wildlife you may find dotterels and banded rails living in the saltmarsh and oyster catchers, kingfishers and many other native birds.
Beach Amenities
- Art sculpture
- Picnic Table
Key Access Points
From Margaret Reeve Lane
This is the main entrance to Dead dog bay (Okoka Bay) enter Margaret Reeve lane via Obrien road at the end of the road there is a cul-de-sac, find a park without obstructing other vehicles and follow the small track called Petersons Track, to get back to your car follow the same track.
There is also another track leading to Te whau drive this is located across the stream but its a steep climb, so be careful
Well Known For
- Tidal beach
- Wildlife
- Boat sculpture
- Secluded
Hire Beach Gear
If you need beach items on your stay at Waiheke, there is a local hire shop called Gear Grab, they have a range of beach items, like sea scooters, metal detectors, beach speakers, sea biscuits, beach tents and games starting at a price of $5 for the smaller toys.
Close To Dead Dog Bay
Dead dog bay Sculpture garden – Located at the end of Margaret reeve lane, here via appointment only you can view large sculptures scattered around the gardens.
Gallery
