Sailors Grave

This grave is thought to be the oldest sailor’s grave in New Zealand. Surrounded by a white picket fence, the lonely grave occupies a small part of the historic reserve and is maintained by the N.Z. Navy.

Sailors, sealers, and whalers were among the first Europeans to frequent New Zealand waters. They played a significant role in early European settlement, the development of trade and industry, and in shaping New Zealand’s cultural identity.

Set against the spectacular backdrop of the Coromandel, numerous trees within the adjoining Pohutukawa Grove Recreation Reserve provide shaded picnic areas. A track leads down to the historic reserve and the gorgeous Te Karo Bay which is perfect for swimming and kayaking. At low tide a scenic one hour walk will take you around the headland to Otara Bay.

Photograph by Melanie Charters