New Zealand is one of the top beach destinations in the world – with over 15,000 beaches along its 15,000 kilometers (9,320 miles) of stunning coastline. The country's varied shoreline features everything from golden sandy bays to rugged cliffs, making it a great place for both adventure enthusiasts and families. Auckland, Tauranga, and Christchurch are among the top beach cities in New Zealand. Auckland is home to Piha Beach, known for its black sand and excellent surf conditions. Tauranga offers Mount Maunganui Beach, a popular spot with wide sandy stretches perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Christchurch has Sumner Beach, where visitors can enjoy both the beach and the surrounding cafes and shops.
Other notable beaches in New Zealand include Cathedral Cove Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula, famous for its natural rock arch and crystal-clear waters, and Ninety Mile Beach in Northland, which is a favorite for sandboarding and beach driving.
The best time to visit New Zealand for beach activities is from December to March, during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the coastal areas are ideal for swimming, surfing, and exploring the natural beauty of the shoreline.
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Auckland, New Zealand offers 149+ beaches along its 1,613 miles (2,596 kilometers) of coastline. Auckland has a number of beach options for every type of traveler. Auckland is a popular travel destination with over 2,700,000 annual visitors in addition to its 1,695,900 residents. Auckland is known for its iconic Sky Tower, beautiful Hauraki Gulf islands, and vibrant cultural festivals.
Northland, New Zealand offers 105+ beaches along its 1,700 miles (2,700 kilometers) of coastline. Northland has a number of beach options for every type of traveler. Northland is a popular travel destination with over 1,000,000 annual visitors in addition to its 194,600 residents. Northland is known for its stunning beaches, rich Maori culture, and the historic Waitangi Treaty Grounds.
Waikato, New Zealand offers 95+ beaches along its coastline. Waikato has a number of beach options for every type of traveler. Waikato is a popular travel destination with over 2,500,000 annual visitors in addition to its 499,800 residents. Waikato is known for its Hobbiton Movie Set, Waitomo Glowworm Caves, Hamilton Gardens.
Bay of Plenty, New Zealand offers 84+ beaches along its 259 miles (417 kilometers) of coastline. Bay of Plenty has a number of beach options for every type of traveler. Bay of Plenty is a popular travel destination with over 3,800,000 annual visitors in addition to its 308,499 residents. Bay of Plenty is known for its stunning beaches, geothermal attractions, and vibrant Maori culture.
Canterbury, New Zealand offers 63+ beaches along its 360 miles (580 kilometers) of coastline. Canterbury has a number of beach options for every type of traveler. Canterbury is a popular travel destination with over 3,700,000 annual visitors in addition to its 645,900 residents. Canterbury is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant arts scene, and adventure tourism opportunities.
Otago, New Zealand offers 64+ beaches along its 375 miles (603 kilometers) of coastline. Otago has a number of beach options for every type of traveler. Otago is a popular travel destination with over 3,700,000 annual visitors in addition to its 246,700 residents. Otago is known for its stunning landscapes, vibrant wine regions, and historic gold mining towns.
Tasman, New Zealand offers 38+ beaches along its 515 miles (829 kilometers) of coastline. Tasman has a number of beach options for every type of traveler. Tasman is a popular travel destination with over 1,200,000 annual visitors in addition to its 57,900 residents. Tasman, New Zealand is known for its Abel Tasman National Park, stunning coastal tracks, and vibrant arts and crafts scene.
Hawke's Bay, New Zealand offers 35+ beaches along its 116.8 miles (188 kilometers) of coastline. Hawke's Bay has a number of beach options for every type of traveler. Hawke's Bay is a popular travel destination with over 3,000,000 annual visitors in addition to its 178,600 residents. Hawke's Bay is known for its world-class wineries, stunning Art Deco architecture, and beautiful coastal landscapes.
Taranaki, New Zealand offers 33+ beaches along its 217 miles (349 kilometers) of coastline. Taranaki has a number of beach options for every type of traveler. Taranaki is a popular travel destination with over 1,000,000 annual visitors in addition to its 131,000 residents. Taranaki is known for its stunning Mount Taranaki, the beautiful coastal walkway, and the vibrant art scene.
West Coast, New Zealand offers 26+ beaches along its coastline. West Coast has a number of beach options for every type of traveler. West Coast is a popular travel destination with over 3,800,000 annual visitors in addition to its 32,400 residents. West Coast, New Zealand is known for its dramatic coastal landscapes, lush rainforests, and the iconic Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers.
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