Cathedral Cove

The Coromandel, North Island

Image Credit : Viator

The locals say the best way to explore this beach is by kayak, and you would have to wholeheartedly agree. Get treated to majestic views of the rocks when you approach from the sea, and soak in the beauty of the naturally curved rock that makes up the cove. Summer and autumn are the busiest periods here. Don’t miss out on the adjacent Hahei Beach as well, a perfect spot to take a dip in the sea.

Koekohe Beach

Hampden, Waitaki

Image Credit : Stuff

Along this beach lies the unique Moeraki Boulders, which are spherical rocks that litter the water’s edge. Traditional Maori legend states that these were goulds that were washed onto the beach from a wrecked canoe from centuries ago. The beach attracts around 300,000 visitors per year, which tells a lot about its ability to attract curious tourists. But because it’s so rocky, be advised against swimming at Koekohe.

Ninety Mile Beach

Northland, North Island

Image Credit : New Zeland

No one really knows how the name of this beach came about, because it isn't really ninety miles long. That said, this stretch of sand is long indeed, spanning a whooping 88 kilometres— yes you read that right. The beach is supposed to be a highway, but it’s only suitable for a few kinds of vehicles to drive on for safety reasons. Nonetheless, the activities available are aplenty, ranging from swimming to surfcasting to bodyboarding.

Mission Bay

Auckland, North Island

Image Credit : Nzhearld

Get so much more than a beach when you pay a visit to Mission Bay. There are playgrounds, bikes for hire, sprawling green lawns and movie theatres just a stone throw’s away. As it’s the only ‘swimmable’ beach near central Auckland, make use of this convenience and pop by the next time you are in Auckland. Curate your own holiday experience by mixing in good times in the sun with urban life. Really, the possibilities are endless.

Sandfly Bay

Dunedin, Otago

Image Credit : Doc.Govt.Nz

Animal lovers rejoice, for you are in for a visual feast of the abundant wildlife that can be found here. There are colonies of yellow-eyed penguins, but only watch them from a distance as they might feel threatened and not come ashore altogether. Also present are sea lions and fur seals who love to play amongst the rocks and sand. Although it is tempting to go swimming with the seals, you wouldn't want to do that at Sandfly Bay as they can be rather aggressive.

Anchorage

Abel Tasman National Park, South Island

Image Credit : Abeltasman

Comfortably sheltered by vast headlands, the Anchorage bay is an excellent spot for setting up camp with your family and friends. It tends to get crowded; after all, it is one of New Zealand’s most popular nature parks. You’ll want to get into a kayak to explore the surrounding area, or at least take a dip in the azure waters. It’s hard not to feel like a mermaid with such a crystal clear sea at your disposal.

Fitzroy Beach

New Plymouth, North Island

Image Credit : Stuff

Another prominent Kiwi campground, Fitzroy is both extremely family and pet friendly. A dedicated team of lifeguards patrol the area in summer, keeping watch over the plethora of surfers catching the waves. It’s also a great place to start getting comfortable in and around water if you are anxious about learning to swim. Having watchful eyes around would hopefully give you the confidence to relax and enjoy the water!

Mt Maunganui

Bay of Plenty, Tauranga

Image Credit : TripAdvisor

You know a beach must be something special when it is amongst the top 25 in the world. This ‘Gold Coast of New Zealand’ is a superb place to kick back and get a suntan while enjoying your favourite book. Hungry? Be spoilt for choice at one of many beachside restaurants and cafes according to your budget. Take part in water sport activities after you've had your fill, and then do it all over again the next day. The fun truly never ends.

Onetangi

Waiheke Island, Auckland

Image Credit : Bachcare

Boasting one of the cleanest sea waters in the Auckland region, Onetangi beach spans more than two kilometres of white sand. And it’s pristine waters are seriously all the reason you need to jump right into the shimmering blue sea. Practice your freediving skills, try your hand at fishing or sign up for a scuba diving course. Also try and spot some furry friends on the beach too, as dogs are allowed at certain sections and timings.

Hot Water Beach

The Coromandel, North Island

Image Credit : New Zeland 

Immerse yourself in an experience like no other as you dig up your very own spa pool in the sand. Bring your own spade, or hire one from a local cafe. Take advantage of the low tide and lie down as naturally heated mineral water bubbles up from beneath you. Swimming is also welcomed, but recommended to be done only when lifeguards are present. A day at Hot Water would provide much needed respite from normal city life. Definitely a must-try mood booster!

With such amazing beaches in New Zealand, you would want to immerse yourself in such a beautiful landscape.  To keep yourself safe while wondering around the beaches, it's important to pick up essential swimming skills. Don't hesitate to join us at our condo swimming lessons to be prepared for such exciting vacation.  

I’m Isabel, your friendly uni student who’s always waddling knee deep in readings and projects. But I’ll go through hell and high water to have regular suppers with my friends. You can find me with a film camera in one hand and a flat white in the other on the weekends. Also am able to rescue you if you ever capsize from a sea kayak.