| Te Ārai | |
| Subdivision Type: | Country |
| Subdivision Name: | New Zealand |
| Subdivision Type1: | Region |
| Subdivision Name1: | Auckland Region |
| Subdivision Type2: | Ward |
| Subdivision Name2: | Rodney ward |
| Subdivision Type3: | Community board |
| Subdivision Name3: | Rodney Local Board |
| Subdivision Type4: | Subdivision |
| Subdivision Name4: | Wellsford subdivision |
| Leader Title: | Territorial Authority |
| Leader Name: | Auckland Council |
| Coordinates: | -36.198°N 174.581°W |
Te Ārai is a small community on the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand, near the northern end of the Auckland Region (specifically within the former Rodney District). Mangawhai lies to the north, and Tomarata to the south. The name of the suburb comes from Tāhuhunui-o-te-rangi, captain of the Moekākara waka, who landed here and set up a temporary shelter (arai). Tāhuhunui-o-te-rangi was later buried at Te Ārai.[1]
Te Ārai Beach is a sandy bottom beach and is a very popular surfing destination, rated one of the best surf locations in the Auckland region. 3 new golf courses have been built in the region named Te Arai Links and Tara Iti.[2] [3]
Tourism and farming are the predominant activities in the area. Among the bird species found here is the critically endangered New Zealand fairy tern, of which only 11 breeding pairs are left in the world. Auckland Council owns Te Ārai Regional Park.
Te Ārai Beach is the exact antipode of Gibraltar.