If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, head along to these hidden waterfalls and secluded beaches in New Zealand’s North Island.
Pori Pori, Tauranga
A popular spot for locals is the Pori Pori swimming hole in Tauranga. Nestled amongst moss-covered rocks and native forest, the swimming hole his a short stroll from the car park.
The small, shallow rock pools are perfect for young kids, while the deeper parts are great for jumping off boulders.
After cooling off on the waters, enjoy a picnic under a shady tree.
Make sure to check the Trustpower website for the latest safety updates, as high water levels can make the swimming hole unsafe for swimming.
Lonely Bay, Whitianga
A 2-minute ferry ride from Whitianga township or drive from Cook’s Beach, you’ll discover Lonely Bay, a secluded beach in New Zealand that’s only accessible by foot.
A 10-15 minute wander through the lush bush track and down the winding steps before you set foot on picture-perfect Coromandel beach.
Charlie’s Rock, Kerikeri
With hundreds of tropical-like islands, there’s no wonder the Bay of Islands is one of our favourite swimming destinations in Aotearoa.
If you prefer the waterfalls to the secluded beaches in New Zealand, the less busy neighbour of the popular Rainbow Falls, Charlie’s Rock Waterfall is a beautiful swimming spot in Kerikeri.
Park your car at the Waipapa Landing and take the 10-15 minute track to the falls. The end of the track takes you upstream across stones and a short climb before stepping out to the beautiful swimming hole and waterfall.
Hoffman’s Pool, Thames
A pocket of paradise amongst native bush, Hoffman’s Pool great hidden swimming spot in the Waikato.
Located in the Kauaranga Valley outside of Thames, this refreshing water hole is a wonderful place for a picnic and dip.
Lake Wainamu, Auckland
Meander over giant sand dunes, or take a gentle stroll along the stream to arrive at Lake Wainamu at Auckland’s Bethell’s Beach.
The freshwater lake is a wonderful swimming spot. If you’ve got the time, be sure to explore the bush track that circles around the lake.
Otarawairere Bay, Ohope
Tucked away at the foot of the Ohope hill is Otarawairere Bay, one of the best secluded beaches in New Zealand. It’s often referred to as Shelly Beach because of the “tiny pieces of shells” that make up the shore.
There are a few ways you can access Otarawairere. The quickest and easiest is the 20-minute walk from Ohope Beach’s West End, which takes you through Kohi Point walkway. If you want to make a day of it, take the Nga Tapuwae O Toi (‘footprints of Toi’) track from Whakatane, which passes historic Māori sites, native bush and spectacular clifftop views.
Make sure to check the tide times as Ōtarawairere Bay is only accessible by foot during low tide.
