Matapouri Mermaid Pools

About | The Mermaid Pools

The Matapouri Mermaid Pools are a natural treasure. The pools are a decent size and allow plenty of people to go in and have a swim.

First things first – it’s a steep 15-minute walk located at the end of Matapouri Beach.

The first bit of the walk is a bit tough going – especially with kids. But, kids being kids, they’ll probably (hopefully) see it as a cool adventure.

Up the steep hill, there are many foot holes, just take it easy, especially with younger kids. Then it’s all downhill. But don’t think this is the easy part. You can easily slip and land on your bum. Again, take it easy.

Because of the difficult walk, you’ll want to pack light. Slap the sunblock on and just bring the essentials – swimsuit, towel and shoes (you’ll need them for walking on the rocks – they’re pretty sharp, but we just brought jandels).

Also, bring a snorkel or a blow-up floatie for the ones that aren’t so confident in the water (it gets deep fast).

Aim to go at low tide, it can get dangerous as the sea levels rise and the waves come crashing in. Also, during high tide you’ll have to walk through chest-high water, we came back at this time and the tide had come right in, covering the rocks so we had to get completely wet and carry our stuff over our heads. Kids swam to the other side.

The Mermaid Pools is a hidden gem at the edge of the open ocean. Definitely worth the steep climb.

NOTE: the mermaid pools are now closed and could be for some years.