Things to see and do Waitakere Ranges Regional Park

Piha Beach offers such risky waves that it was even the setting for the reality show Piha Rescue, which chronicles the day-to-day life of lifeguards on this coastline. It's one of New Zealand's premier surfing spots and, if you follow the safety rules, there's nothing to stop you from enjoying it. As for the swimmers, it is more than widely advised to swim between the flags and in the slots of presence of the lifeguards. A little further on, you can access the Kitakita Falls, where a natural swimming pool awaits fresh water lovers.

Hidden behind volcanic sand dunes, this almost deserted beach is a spot with many attractions. Its rollers are very popular with surfers and the stream coming from the lake ends up here, which makes it an ideal swimming spot for families. The beach is easily recognizable thanks to the first-aid post planted in the sand in the middle of the beach. Don't miss the cave on the right side of the beach (facing the sea). Te Henga hike (6h round trip).

It is here, about 30 kilometers from Auckland, that we find the famous beach of the 1993 movie The Piano Lesson, as well as a beautiful waterfall. Some scenes from Xena the Warrior were also filmed thereand there are several small romantic spots. If you look hard enough, you will find the commemorative plaque in memory of the lifeguards who left to fight in Europe during the Second World War. Beware of the currents, which are quite strong, and the waves, which are only for experienced surfers.