Exploring the beaches of Northland, NZ
Pataua Beach
Exploring the beaches of Northland, NZ
New Zealand's Northland is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country - if not the world.
Exploring the beaches of Northland, NZ
If you’re looking for somewhere to explore this summer, do yourself a favour and visit Northland. More specifically, why not take the perfect summer roadtrip and drive your way up the rural coastline from Auckland?
You’ll experience the pristine, Pohutukawa-laden beaches New Zealand is known for, without the huge crowds that popular tourist spots like Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach bring. Northland’s beaches offer the ultimate playground to spend your summer, with opportunities to surf, swim, fish and experience untouched nature.
Travellers will also get a feel for small-town New Zealand as they pass through the humble beachside villages that are part-and-parcel to the coast.
Check out just a few of lower Northland’s stunning beaches below – and extend your trip up to the Bay of Islands for more waves if you can.
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- A charming coastal bay, Waipu Cove offers great surf and views. Make sure you visit the famous McLeod’s Pizza Barn on your way out.
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- With its squeaky white sand stretching into the distance, Ruakaka Beach provides space aplenty. Whangarei City is just a 30 minute drive away.
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- One of Northland’s best kept secrets, One Tree Point Beach looks out over Mount Manaia and is covered in mature Pohutukawa trees.
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- Camp in the dunes at Uretiti’s Department of Conservation campsite, or just enjoy the openness of this huge beach. The nearby Waipu Caves are a great post-beach activity.
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- A small bay, Matapouri features Mermaid Pools at low tide and a gentle estuary. Walk the coast to Whale Bay if you have extra time.
