Franklin’s three main coastlines are notable for their unique and distinct characteristics. Council sets bylaws and monitors the beaches from the low water mark (where the spring low tides are on average).
Council also tests the water quality of our beaches and the Waikato River (at Tuakau beach and Elbow Road ski club) 3 times a year at the beginning, middle and at the end of the swimming season. Visit the Water quality testing page for more details.
West Coast
The West Coast adjoins the Tasman Sea and is a rugged stretch of coastline rising sharply from the sea to the ridge line. The main points of access for recreation such as fishing are:
Manukau Harbour
Manukau Harbour is spectacular at every time of the year and offers picnic and water access opportunities at many of the small settlements along the coast. Council’s main reserves along the Manukau Harbour include:
- Glenbrook Beach Boat Ramp
Situated at the end of a point this popular boat launching reserve has some spectacular views up and down the harbour. This reserve is connected by a number of esplanade reserves and walkways to the more sheltered swimming beach within the settlement of Glenbrook Beach.
- Grahams Beach Reserve
with its white sandy beach, small playground, recently renovated public toilets, safer swimming opportunities and BBQ facilities, is an ideal summer picnic spot. A small boat ramp makes accessing the harbour very easy.
- Te Toro Reserve
situated at the end of a point, this large reserve offers both easy, all-tide boat access and playground and picnic facilities for the perfect relaxed experience to day-trippers.
- Wattle Bay Reserve
The upper level of this reserve offers some of the best views of the outer Manukau Harbour, while its sandy beach offers safe swimming opportunities.
Seabird Coast
Seabird Coast which is commonly referred to as the Firth of Thames/Tipaka Moana contains the settlements of Kaiaua, Miranda and Whakatiwai. The coastal environment consists of a broad flat expanse rising towards the Hunua Ranges and is the seasonal home to migratory birds. Council has reserves adjoining the coast that offer easy access to the Firth of Thames. For the kids there is a large pirate shipped playground for hours of enjoyment at Kaiaua. The Kaiaua Boat Club manages and maintains a boat ramp in Kaiaua.
Waikato River
Franklin also has the mighty Waikato River flowing through it and reserves such as Les Batkin Reserve, Elbow Reserve and Hoods Landing provide access points for water users.