Te ÃÂrai 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 comes from TÃÂhuhunui-o-te-rangi, captain of the MoekÃÂkara waka, who landed here and set up a temporary shelter (arai). TÃÂhuhunui-o-te-rangi was later buried at Te ÃÂrai.
Te ÃÂrai Beach is a sandy bottom beach and is a very popular surfing destination, rated one of the best surf locations in the Auckland region.
Te ÃÂrai Beach is the exact antipode of Gibraltar.
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 manages Te ÃÂrai Regional Park.
The Arai Road District was formed on 20 February 1868, it governed Te Arai until 1886 when it was dissolved.
Tourism and farming are the predominant activities in the area.