I pulled out a map (the old-fashioned paper kind that our kids laugh at), wondering how many bays and beaches were marked in the Far North. There are dozens. I lost count somewhere around 75. We’ve also got coves, inlets, harbours, points, islands and rocks. Perhaps the rocks are of limited appeal, but then again rocks mean rock pools which are always popular and, although it’s hard for me to understand, Stephen loves rock hopping. I guess they could be good for snorkelling too. So for some, rocks rock.
But what makes a good beach?
I did an informal and very limited survey among family and friends, and their answers boiled down to two things – solitude and sand. Solitude can often be found on a New Zealand beach, but sand?
The quality of sand is paramount it seems – “Fine sand”, said one. “Not too fine, it just blows everywhere”, said another. “Not gritty.” “Just right for sandcastles.” “Preferably golden.” “White is the best.”
Everyone had their own definition of a perfect beach. Some wanted flotsam and jetsam, some wanted shells and pebbles, some wanted pristine sand. The gardeners wanted seaweed. Everyone wanted shade. So perhaps we need every one of those 75+ locations to cater for individual preferences.
I visited a few of our most popular beaches recently to see if I could define their appeal and discover my own favourite.
The Aupōuri Peninsula is the long thin bit at the top of New Zealand. There are popular beaches on both sides.
Ninety Mile Beach (west coast)
The inaccurately named Ninety Mile Beach does not cover 90 miles but it is a jolly long beach.
It’s empty apart from the
