Ninety Mile Beach is world famous, stretching from west of Kaitaia all the way up to Cape Reinga at the northernmost point of the country. However, the name is a bit misleading — it's only around 55 miles long. Its epic white sand dunes are a huge drawcard for tourists, with plenty of fun to be had sandboarding down the slopes. The beach is well known for snapper fishing and shellfish, as well as being a great spot for surfers of all levels of experience.
OAKURA
Also endorsed by a famous name, this beach on Taranaki's Surf Highway was where Tom Cruise stayed and had surf lessons while working on the set of The Last Samurai. You can follow in his flippers, as the local surf school holds lessons during summer. This beautiful black-sand beach is one of the most popular in the region and the township is also home to a thriving eccentric arts community. And it's home to what was once the largest surfboard in the world.
HOKITIKA
Its famous driftwood sign may have recently been destroyed in a storm, but this rustic beach on the South Island's west coast still has plenty going for it. Overall, it's a better beach to take a stroll down, rather than take a dip at — conditions can be changeable, so it's only recommended for experienced swimmers and surfers. But you'll find enough to keep you occupied on its pebbly black-sand shore — look for pounamu (greenstone) among the rocks and keep your eyes peeled for penguins and seals. There's space for a picnic and lots of interesting art galleries, jewellers and old buildings in the nearby town.
