Piha's Black Sands
Experience the raw power and dramatic beauty of Piha Beach, near Auckland, renowned for its striking black sand and formidable surf. This popular destination
offers more than just sunbathing; explore adjacent walking tracks that lead to breathtaking views of its distinctive headlands, Lion Rock and Taitomo Island. At low tide, a unique natural wonder known as the 'Keyhole' can be observed, where waves surge through a ravine in Camel Rock. While Piha is a visually spectacular location, it demands respect due to its powerful currents and wild surf, making it essential to always swim within the designated flags monitored by surf lifesavers. For amenities, visitors can enjoy the iconic Piha Surf Life Saving Club restaurant, a general store, and a campground. Parking is available a short distance from the sand, though Marine Parade can offer additional spots if needed. It's important to note that dogs are not permitted on this beach.
Ninety Mile's Vast Expanse
Venture to the northern tip of the North Island to discover Ninety Mile Beach, an epic 88km stretch of sand, despite its name suggesting otherwise. This vast coastline, beginning near Kaitaia and stretching towards the spiritual northernmost point of Cape Reinga, is characterized by immense sand dunes that invite exhilarating sandboarding adventures. The sheer scale of the beach meeting the endless ocean is a sight to behold, offering opportunities for surfing with its notable left-hand break. For the adventurous, driving on the compacted sand is possible at low tide, though note that rental car companies typically prohibit this; booking a guided tour from Kaitaia is the recommended way to experience this unique aspect. A pleasant walk along the beach can be initiated from the Cape Te Paki Stream car park, leading northwards to Scott Point. While Kaitaia provides essential supplies and fuel, convenient toilet stops are available along the route and at Cape Reinga. Dogs are permitted, but caution is advised due to vehicle traffic on the sand.
Raglan's Friendly Waves
Ngarunui Beach, situated just west of Raglan, is the go-to spot for those seeking more approachable surf conditions compared to the renowned Manu Bay, famous for its challenging left-hand break. This beach offers a welcoming environment for swimmers, with lifeguards on duty from October to April, enhancing safety for families and less experienced surfers. On sunny summer days, Ngarunui buzzes with activity, particularly as visitors try their hand at surfing. It's also an excellent location for body surfing and boogie boarding, making it a lively hub for beachgoers. Conveniently located a short 10-minute drive from Raglan town, the beach provides ample parking, public toilets, changing facilities, and showers, alongside the Raglan Surf Life Saving Club. Dogs are not permitted on Ngarunui Beach.
Abel Tasman's Anchorage
Within the stunning Abel Tasman National Park, Anchorage Beach stands out as a prime coastal destination. This gem features a gracefully curved expanse of golden sand, beautifully framed by verdant native forest. Its allure extends beyond its natural beauty, offering direct access to a picturesque segment of the Great Walk coastal track. Visitors have the option to stay overnight at the park's conservation campsite or hut, allowing ample time to explore nearby Cleopatra's Pool, a beautiful waterfall accessible via a short detour. Due to its protected status, there is no vehicle access; reaching Anchorage is accomplished either by foot from Mārahau, a 10km walk, or by water taxi. The DOC campsite provides essential amenities including flushing toilets and a sheltered kitchen area, along with picnic tables. Dogs are not permitted at Anchorage Beach.
Wharariki's Dramatic Isles
Prepare for a visually arresting experience at Wharariki Beach in western Golden Bay, reached after a scenic 20-minute walk through rolling dunes. This wild West Coast sea meets a landscape punctuated by dramatic, jagged rock islands standing defiantly in the shallows, which are transformed into fascinating sea caverns at low tide, offering an opportunity for exploration. The glistening wet sands and the chance to spot seals add to the enchanting atmosphere. While Wharariki is breathtakingly beautiful, its powerful waves make it unsafe for swimming. The best times to visit for photography are early morning or late afternoon, when the light enhances the dramatic scenery. Notably, this beach gained international recognition as a backdrop in the Windows 10 operating system. The nearest town for amenities is Collingwood, about 30km away. Parking is available a 1km walk from the beach, with a public toilet at the car park and the small Archway Cafe nearby. Dogs are not allowed.
Waikuku's Coastal Charm
Just a 30-minute drive north of Christchurch lies a magnificent 13km stretch of pristine coastline, encompassing Waikuku Beach and extending south towards Pines Beach, offering a serene alternative to the city's more frequented shores. This wide expanse of sand is a favored spot for surfers, individuals enjoying leisurely walks with their dogs, and notably, for thoroughbred harness racers who can be observed practicing at speed with carts and riders near Woodend Beach during low tide. The sheer size of the beach ensures ample space for everyone. While the South Island's waters are known for being cool, the beach offers delightful discoveries, such as intricate driftwood sculptures crafted by visitors near the dunes and the chance to observe oystercatchers foraging for shellfish in the sand. For a pleasant half-day outing, one can begin at Waikuku Beach, enjoy lunch in the nearby town of Pegasus, and then return via the Tūtaepatu Trail, which winds through picturesque pine forests. Public toilets, a small general store in Pegasus, a surf lifesaving club, and a small holiday park are available. Dogs are permitted on the beach, provided they are kept away from the Ashley-Rakahuri estuary.
New Chums' Secluded Beauty
The Coromandel Peninsula is home to numerous stunning beaches, but New Chums Beach offers an unparalleled sense of seclusion. Reaching this idyllic spot involves a rewarding 30-minute walk from the Whangapoua car park, a route that requires some rock scrambling and careful footing, especially during high tide, which deters many visitors. Those who undertake the journey are greeted with a breathtaking vista: a resplendent golden beach, shimmering turquoise waters, and ancient, gnarled pōhutukawa trees, which burst into vibrant red blooms around Christmas. The effort invested in reaching New Chums often means you might find yourself enjoying its pristine beauty in solitude. There are no amenities at the beach, emphasizing the need for visitors to be self-sufficient and to practice 'leave no trace' principles. Parking is available at the northern end of Wangapoua Beach. Dogs are prohibited.
Cathedral Cove's Iconic Arch
Cathedral Cove on the Coromandel Peninsula is an iconic New Zealand destination, celebrated for its magnificent natural stone arch and a unique waterfall-like shower. The cove is accessible via a picturesque 2.5km walk, approximately 45 minutes long, starting from the nearby settlement of Hahei. This walk, which includes some stair sections, offers spectacular ocean views. Alternatively, visitors can reach Cathedral Cove by water taxi, boat, or kayak from Hahei. Exploring the adjacent Gemstone and Stingray Bays (check track status beforehand) is highly recommended, especially for snorkeling enthusiasts. These bays are part of a marine reserve, ensuring abundant underwater life, including crayfish, stingrays, and large snapper. Parking is available at the Hahei Visitors Car Park, with limited parking at the track's commencement. Shuttle services operate from December to April, and a public toilet is located at the track's start. An ice cream van may also be present midway. Dogs are not permitted.
St Clair's Urban Appeal
St Clair Beach offers a vibrant city beach experience just 5km from Dunedin's city center, making it highly accessible by bus, car, or even a brisk walk (though the return uphill trek can be challenging). This beautiful golden-sand shore is popular for swimming, though caution is advised due to potential rips, and for surfing, boasting a reliable left-hand break. Visiting during low tide maximizes beach time. For those preferring a more controlled swim, an outdoor heated ocean pool, originally built in the late 1800s, is situated at the southern end of the beach. The beachfront is lined with restaurants, including the popular who offers pizza and pasta, and another with an excellent Asian menu. Parking is plentiful along the beachfront and on surrounding streets. Amenities include public toilets, local shops, eateries, and the aforementioned ocean pool. Dogs are permitted on the beach between 8am and 8pm.
Pūrākaunui's Tranquil Escape
Nestled in the Catlins region, Pūrākaunui Bay is a genuine hidden gem, situated 16km from the nearest small town. This exceptionally tranquil corner of The Catlins offers a peaceful retreat, renowned for its picturesque setting. The beach is gracefully enclosed by imposing cliffs, interspersed with pockets of native bush and a spacious grassy reserve. Visitors will find very little in the way of scheduled activities, making it an ideal location for unwinding and immersing oneself in a serene environment, reminiscent of a laid-back 1970s family holiday. Swimming is enjoyable when the surf is calm, and surfing is possible when conditions permit. It’s the perfect destination to bring a book or board games and truly disconnect. Plenty of car parking is available. The nearby campsite offers toilets, untreated water, and fire pits. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash.
Scott's Beach Remote Allure
Scott's Beach, located within the Kahurangi National Park, is a remote yet accessible coastal marvel, reachable via a 3km trek from the Kōhaihai Campsite. This journey itself is part of the experience, beginning with a scenic drive through Karamea to the end-of-the-line camping reserve, set against a magnificent estuary backdrop. The walk into the national park leads over a low hill to the secluded beach, which, even when partially obscured by mist, presents a captivating scene. Expect to find rugged rocks, dense nikau palm forests, and powerful waves crashing onto a beach strewn with driftwood. It's important to note that there is no direct parking at Scott's Beach; access is solely on foot. Amenities are minimal, consisting only of a long-drop toilet and a fireplace. Dogs are not permitted on this beach.
Wainui's Sunrise Splendor
Wainui Beach, meaning 'big water' in Māori, is a standout coastal destination located just north of Tairāwhiti Gisborne. This beach is celebrated for its excellent swimming conditions and a quality surf break, all set against a backdrop of protected dune and bush reserves. It's a place that fosters a strong sense of community, particularly among ocean enthusiasts and members of the surf-lifesaving club. Wainui is ideally situated only a 10-minute drive from Gisborne on the North Island's east coast, making it a convenient yet stunning getaway. Car parking is readily available just north of the Surf Lifesaving Club. Amenities include public toilets and an excellent cafe known for its plant-based smoothies and bowls. Dogs are welcome but must be kept under control.
