Aoetearoa is simply spoiled for gorgeous beaches. Check out NZ Compare's favourites!
As an island nation, New Zealand is simply riddled with unmatched beaches. Whether you are in need of an enchanting lagoon with gentle waves and golden sand, or surf beaches of the west coast with roaring waves and toasty black sand, New Zealand is the place to be.
Top North Island Beaches
Cathedral Cove
Steeped in a magical essence which was further enhanced by the filming of Narnia, Cathedral Cove has allured explorers from near and far for centuries. Visitors flock to the isolated cove each year, especially in the summer, to take pictures beneath the archway and kayak its waters. Either take the water taxi from Hahei Beach, or take the 30 minute forest trail to the beach from the parking lot.
Mount Maunganui
Flanking the heart of the Bay of Plenty, this stretch of white sand beach features deep blue waters and the convenience of suburbia. We’re talking restaurants and bars, perfect for lunch with an ocean view. Climb the Mount and be rewarded with an unparalleled view of the
Onetangi Beach, Waiheke Island
A wonderful day trip from Auckland by ferry, this is a charming beach to spend time in during your visit to Waiheke Island. This is truly a unique oasis only a stone’s throw away from the lively Auckland city.
Opito Bay
A wide stretch of beach that is simply perfect for spreading out and escaping into a bubble of tranquillity. Stroll across the soft sand and bask in the shallow waters that are so blue, you’d think you were in Sicily. Tucked in the north of the Coromandel Peninsula, this bay, with its dripping cliffs in the east is only a 3 hour drive from Auckland and completely worth it if you seek peace and a place akin to the Adriatic Sea
Top South Island Beaches
Totaranui Beach, Abel Tasman
One of the most secluded and remote beaches of the South Island, this bay, at the far end of the Abel Tasman National Park. Quiet and tranquil, this piece of pure paradise boasts clear turquoise waters and is hugged by a stretch of golden sand. If you’d like to spend the night in the campsite, be sure to book in advance. With snorkelling, fishing, swimming, and native bush trails, this is an idyllic place to unwind from day-to-day demands. The bay enjoys patchy cell phone reception – creating a place just perfect for disconnecting.
Koekohe Beach and Moeraki Boulders, Otago
Walk amongst prehistoric landscapes in the far south. The Moeraki Boulders are massive spherical rocks scattered haphazardly across the beach, and link to the age of the dinosaurs. Maori mythology tells the story of the boulders, which are said to be gourds washed ashore from Araiteuru – a large sailing ship – as it breached New Zealand’s shores. This beach calls for those who enjoy a leisurely coastal stroll.
Kaka Point Beach, Clutha
Take the chance of encountering sea lions and penguins at this wildlife oasis at the bottom of the south island. Just less than a 2 hour drive from Invercargill, this popular beach teems with swimmers, fishers, and surfers in the summer. With native birds, rolling waves and flat golden sand, this lifeguarded beach is a family favourite. You may even spot a sleeping sea lion during an even stroll.
Tunnel Beach, Dunedin
Steeped in a romantic essence, this bay allures those interested in embarking on a little adventure. To access the beach, you must hike along the roughly 1 km long Tunnel Beach trail. The track features panoramic views of the sea and a natural archway. The tunnel comes from the 1870s, and spills into the small bay tucked between sheer cliffs. A note that this beach isn’t safe to swim in during high tides because of the strong currents. But it offers simply unmatched scenery!
Did you know you can save money on bills while at the beach?
That’s right! NZ Compare makes it easy to compare bills while on the go. As long as you haven’t ventured too far into the wilderness, and are enjoying no cellphone reception, you can compare your bills as you bask in the summer sunshine and salty air. Comparing bills, for broadband, power, mobile and more, is a great way to find a service or plan that suits your budget and household needs better. You can save hundreds of dollars in the long-term by simply comparing the providers and plans available to you and making the switch to a better deal.