Ripiro Beach, Black sand beach in Northland, New Zealand.
Ripiro Beach is a black sand beach on the west coast of Northland that stretches for about 107 kilometers between Hokianga Harbour and Kaipara Harbour. High sand dunes run along the shore, creating distinctive features across this long coastal expanse.
The Battle of Moremonui occurred near this beach in 1807, marking the first Māori conflict where muskets were used in battle. This event became the starting point for a series of wars that reshaped Māori society.
This coastal route has meaning for Māori communities, who historically used it for moving goods and people along the western shore. The connection between Hokianga Harbour and Kaipara Harbour made it a natural gathering and passage point for iwi.
Access is by State Highway 12, with the town of Dargaville nearby for accommodations, food, and supplies. It is worth planning ahead since the beach itself is remote and facilities are limited along much of the coastline.
This coastline proved treacherous for ships, with around 110 wrecks recorded between 1834 and 1994. Notable incidents include the French corvette L'Alcmene which sank in 1851 and the yacht Askoy that wrecked in 1994.
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