Best Of The Beaches

Headed to the beach this summer? With borders closed, it's time to explore our own backyard. Whether you're looking to swim, to surf, wanting to bust out the beach volleyball or cricket set - or even just wanting to go for a relaxing walk in the sand - we tick off some of our favourite beaches that New Zealand has to offer.

NORTHLAND'S NINETY MILE BEACH

One of the country's most famous beaches has the notoriety it has for a reason. With picturesque views - the beach is 88km long and has plenty to offer - making it the perfect summer destination. For the kids, bodyboarding down the sand dunes is a popular activity - while swimming, surfing, fishing and more are popular activities that the whole family can enjoy.

AUCKLAND'S MURIWAI BEACH

Untamed and natural, Muriwai is one of the best black sand beaches and popular for surfers. A fun day out, this beach is set apart by it's gannet breeding colony with viewing decks so the whole family can enjoy these amazing sea birds. It's also got one of the best sunset views in NZ.

COROMANDEL'S HOT WATER BEACH

If the usual surf is a little too cold for you, then Coromandel Peninsula is the perfect unique experience. With piping hot water that comes from the underground geothermal river, it's a hot pool that's free to enjoy and the perfect summer date night destination.

NORTHLAND'S MATAPOURI BAY

Famous for it's sweeping white sand, this gorgeous little spot just North of the Bay Of Islands is perfect for swimming and exploring. At low tide, the Mermaid Pools provide a whole lot of fun and at low tide there's a great walkway that makes for one of our favourite sunset beach walks. 

WELLINGTON'S ORIENTAL BAY BEACH

If you're looking for a skyline backdrop while at the beach (a rare experience) - then Wellington's Oriental Bay Beach is for you. Perfect for picnics, swimming, walking or cycling - it's Wellington's most popular beach and makes for an ideal family day out. 

NELSON'S KAITERITERI BEACH

For the adventurer, Kaiteriteri is perfect for kayaking and enjoying the stunning views of the Nelson/Tasman region. With golden sand, it's safe for swimming and offers picturesque views. A great destination for fish n chips on the beach.

NELSON'S RABBIT ISLAND

A short 15 minute drive from Richmond is Rabbit Island. Perfect for those that love long walks on the beach, there are a number of great walking and mountain biking tracks. It's also got a great picnic spot to soak up the sun with the family. 

CHRISTCHURCH'S SUMNER

Hugely popular, Sumner is a staple in Christchurch. With long stretches of white sand, calm water and a flurry of beachside ice cream stalls - it's one of our favourite classic family-friendly beaches. Although it does get very busy with tourists and locals - there's always something new to explore and the laid-back nature of Sumner beach makes it one of our favourite places to spend summer.

OTAGO'S ARAMOANA

Aramoana may have a storied past, but there's no denying the beauty of this beach. Surrounded by cliffs, and sloping sand dunes - it's a beautiful stretch of land that is home to local wildlife such as sea lions and nesting penguins. Step up onto the viewing platforms for jaw-dropping views and explore this greatly untouched wildlife reserve.

DUNEDIN'S ST CLAIR BEACH

One of our favourites in the South Island, St Clair is a popular family beach - and is great for those with kids with the nearby playground. Safe for swimming, and boasting long stretches of sand so you can walk from one end to the other - this is a must for our Dunedin dwellers.