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Why this status?
Click here for detailed information on water quality monitoring
The scienceSummer season monitoring
LAWA shows the best available water quality information to help you decide where to swim.
Special Status
Special StatusIssued on 24 Feb 2023Unsuitable for swimming.
This site has temporarily been determined as unsuitable for swimming, and we recommend people do not swim at this site.
Reminder
Heavy rain flushes contaminants from urban and rural land into waterways and we advise you not to swim for 2 – 3 days after heavy or prolonged rain – even at sites that generally have good water quality. Check that the water is clean and clear before taking a dip.
Learn more
See factsheets for more information.
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Patrolled
Swim between the flags. Find out more.
SwimmersPatrolled Beach
Surf Life Saving New Zealand is protecting our community in the water. Do your part and be prepared, watch out for yourself and others, be aware of the dangers and know your limits. If in doubt, stay out.
Patrols
Karekare Beach is a patrolled beach. Stay safe - swim between the flags
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What's at this site?
Find out all recreational activities and facilities at this site
Activities & facilitiesSite suitable for these activities and has these facilities
Our lakes, rivers, and beaches are great natural playgrounds but they can be unpredictable. Be aware of other potential risks such as rips, strong currents, sudden drop offs, or underwater objects before jumping in. LAWA recommends that you avoid swimming for 2 - 3 days after heavy rainfall and follow the advice of any warning signs in place.
Activities
Swimming
Walking
Facilities
Toilets
Picnic area
Karekare Beach
Karekare Beach is an iconic destination on Auckland's west coast.
It has spectacular scenery, walks, and a great beach. However, it can be a dangerous environment with large waves and strong rip currents.
The beach is patrolled by surf lifeguards at times over late spring, summer, and early autumn, so make sure you always swim between the red and yellow flags. If the flags are not up, the beach is not patrolled, so don't enter the water.
