Gemstone Beach
Gemstone Beach is known for its constant state of change from sand to stones with the storms and tides. Semi-precious gems such as garnet, jasper, quartz and nephrite can often be found on the beach.
Gemstone Beach
Originally known by Māori as “Aropaki Beach”, travellers are welcome to take a pebble or two as a remembrance of their visit.
Gemstones
Identifying Gemstones
Jocelyn Thornton released a small booklet titled Gemstones (1985) which may be helpful in identifying some of the gemstones found on Gemstone Beach. The booklet Gemstones is hosted here as a free download.
Tide Times
The best time to visit is below half tide.
Tide times can be found on the Weather page.
Location
Sign posted about ½ kilometre north of Orepuki.
Do you need to go to Gemstone Beach at low tide?
The best time would be somewhere below half tide.