Black-sand Beaches of West Auckland

In summer, black sand can get extremely hot – enough to penetrate your jandals! Having a pair of thicker soled shoes is always a good idea for the walk back to the car.

WHATIPU Windswept, moody and memorable. Swimming isn’t advised, but with vast dunes, caves and historic Māori sites, there’s still plenty to do. Access is via an unsealed road.

KAREKARE This is a dramatic beach that has inspired many filmmakers and was most notably used in Jane Campion’s The Piano. Defined by its iron-rich black sand, it’s mesmerising to watch sulky waves thrash the shoreline.

ANAWHATA Just a few kilometres north of Piha with impressive rock formations. Accessibility is by foot only, making it one of the (gloriously) less populated beaches on this coast.

WARNING: Although beautiful, these beaches are dangerous – only swim when lifeguards are on duty, and only between the red and yellow flags. Check www.safeswim.org.nz for more information.

IMAGE ABOVE: West Auckland beach © Auckland Unlimited Inc.

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