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Port of Whangarei

NZWRE🇳🇿New Zealand

Port Location

About Port of Whangarei

Whangarei is a natural harbor on New Zealand's North Island. It serves as a key port for the region, handling general cargo and providing facilities for vessel repair, including a drydock. Pilotage and tug assistance are compulsory.

Background
Whangārei is the northernmost city in New Zealand and the largest settlement of the Northland Region. It is part of the Whangarei District, created in 1989 from the former Whangarei City, Whangarei County and Hikurangi Town councils to administer both the city and its hinterland. The city population was estimated to be 56,100 in June 2025, an increase from 47,000 in 2001.

Current Conditions

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Vessel Limits

Channel Depth
8ft
Tidal Range
2ft
Elevation
6m

Operations & Services

Port of Entry
Unknown
Pilotage Compulsory
Yes
Tug Assistance
Yes
Cranes
Mobile
Drydock
U
Repair Code
C

References & Identifiers

WPI No.
55050 →
GeoNames ID
2179288 →
Wikidata
Q744239 →
Wikipedia
Read on Wikipedia →

Identification

UN/LOCODE
NZWRE
Country
🇳🇿New Zealand
Time Zone
UTC+13
Feature Type
HBR (Harbor)

Classification

Type
Port
Harbor Type
River natural
Shelter
Good

Region

Subdivision
NZ-NTL
Area
East Australia
Latitude
-35.7448°
Longitude
174.3411°

Nearby Vessels

Flag
Type
Name
Dist.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I navigate the approach to the Port of Whangarei?+
The approach to Whangarei is supported by 5 navigation aids within 50 nautical miles. The nearest is Tutukaka Head Lighthouse at 12.8 NM to the NE. Other aids include Pouto Point (26.5 NM WSW), Veronica Channel Range Front (28.8 NM NNW), Cape Brett (34.2 NM N), Mokohinau Islands (38.8 NM ESE). Mariners should consult the relevant chart and List of Lights for full approach details.
What sea or ocean is the Port of Whangarei on?+
The Port of Whangarei is situated on the Tasman Sea in NZ. The area falls within the temperate maritime climate zone, which can influence port operations and seasonal shipping patterns.
How do I track vessels arriving at or departing from the Port of Whangarei?+
You can track vessels near Whangarei (NZWRE) in real time using MarineRadar. The platform displays live AIS positions of nearby ships, including vessel name, type, flag, speed, and course. Use the "Track Vessels Nearby" button on this page or search for NZWRE on the live map.
What are the operating hours and time zone for the Port of Whangarei?+
The Port of Whangarei operates in the UTC+13 time zone. Operating hours, VTS schedules, and pilot availability vary — vessel agents should confirm with the port authority in advance, especially for night arrivals or weekend operations.