KiwiGlimpseOverview
Half-moon Bay is a small community located on Stewart Island, the southernmost inhabited island of New Zealand. The town is known for its stunning natural beauty and its proximity to the Rakiura National Park, which covers most of the island. Half-moon Bay is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the rugged and wild beauty of New Zealand's wilderness and for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
| Half-moon Bay Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | Half-moon Bay |
| Region | Auckland |
| District Council | Auckland |
| Postal Code: | 2012 |
| Current Time: | 04:57 PM |
| Date: | Thursday, July 10, 2025(NZST) |
| Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
| Elevation / Altitude | 51.25 meters. Above Seal level |
| Latitude | -46.9000 |
| Longitude | 168.1300 |
| DMS Lat | -47° 6' 0'' |
| DMS Long | 168° 7' 48'' |
History
The area around Half-moon Bay has been inhabited for thousands of years by Maori, who lived off the land and sea. European settlers arrived in the mid-1800s, attracted by the abundant natural resources and the island's remote location. The town grew slowly over the years, with most of its residents involved in fishing and related industries. Today, the town is a popular destination for tourists and its rich history and cultural heritage can be seen in its architecture and traditions.
Geography
Half-moon Bay is located on Stewart Island, the third-largest island in New Zealand. The island is known for its rugged and wild beauty, with most of its interior covered by the Rakiura National Park. The town is situated on a sheltered bay, which provides opportunities for fishing and water activities. The island is home to a variety of wildlife, including kiwi birds and other rare species.
Half-moon Bay is located at latitude -46.90 and longitude 168.13 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -47° 6' 0'' and longitude 168° 7' 48'' (DMS).
Below is map of Half-moon Bay
Demographics
Half-moon Bay has a small population of approximately 200 residents. The town has a mix of Maori and European residents, with a strong sense of community and pride in its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town is welcoming to visitors and newcomers and its friendly residents make it a great place to live or visit.
Climate
Half-moon Bay has a temperate climate with cool temperatures throughout the year. The town experiences a moderate amount of rainfall, which keeps the surrounding countryside lush and green. The weather can be unpredictable at times, with sudden changes in temperature and weather patterns, making it important for visitors to be prepared for any conditions.
Half-moon Bay Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Half-moon Bay Live Weather
Light rain
Humidity: 97%
Wind: 2.56 mt/sec towards NE
observed on 10 Jul 2025 06:00
Half-moon Bay Weather Forecast for Next 5 days
11.68°C to 11.68°C
Light rain
12.58°C to 12.58°C
Moderate rain
12.64°C to 12.64°C
Light rain
12.49°C to 12.49°C
Light rain
12.55°C to 12.55°C
Light rain
13.35°C to 13.35°C
Overcast clouds
Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
Half-moon Bay is a popular destination for visitors looking to experience the rugged and wild beauty of New Zealand's wilderness. The town is located near the Rakiura National Park, which offers opportunities for hiking, camping and exploring the island's natural beauty. The town itself has a number of restaurants and shops, as well as a marina that provides opportunities for fishing and water activities.
Economy
The economy of Half-moon Bay is largely based on tourism, with the town's natural beauty and outdoor activities attracting visitors from around the world. The town also has a small but thriving fishing industry, with many of its residents involved in fishing and related industries. Retail and service sectors are also important to the local economy, providing employment opportunities for residents.
Nearby Schools
| Sr. No. | School Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | A'oga Amata Preschool |
| 2 | Bluff Kindergarten |
| 3 | Bluff School |
| 4 | Halfmoon Bay School |
| 5 | St Teresa's School (Bluff) |