Piha Beach
NileGuide Expert Says:
This popular beach is often frequented by Aucklanders escaping the city, but be wary of the water - currents are stronger than they look.
User Rating:
Address:
Waitakere
1008 Auckland, New Zealand
Phone:
+64 9 979 7070 (Tourist Information)
NileGuide Expert tip:
If you don't believe me about the surf, believe the Australians. They sent a team here to compete in 1950 and said at the time they never wanted to come back – and they haven't.
Description:
There are beaches in New Zealand and then there is Piha. Located just 28 kilometers out of the city (consult a map or www.wises.co.nz as it isn't as easy to find as it should be) you definitely know you are in a different world on the approach. It has the Waitakere ranges at its back (a protected sub-tropical forest for those keeping score) and Lion Rock resembling a divine life guard. Life guards are important on this beach as the rips and currents can be unforgiving. This is great for surfing, but makes for a dangerous dip in the water for the casual swimmer. Be sure to check the flags set out by the local surf club and only swim in the designated areas. If you are out for more than a swim or a surf, check out the walking tracks that take you through the reserve and bring you up close and personal with the landscape and vegetation. You can also follow the Piha Stream and the KiteKite Falls. It is easy to see how this was an area for milling in the early parts of the last century.
Map:
