Karekare Beach

Karekare Beach

Karekare Beach is located on the eastern side of Auckland, about 35 kilometers from the city. It is a long stretch of black sand beach, renowned as one of New Zealand's most famous black sand beaches. It was also listed among New Zealand’s top ten beaches by the renowned American outdoor magazine *Outside*.

Karekare Beach is a beautiful and wild shoreline that gained international fame after being featured in Jane Campion’s award-winning film *The Piano*. It has since become a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world. Known as one of New Zealand’s premier surfing beaches, it attracts surfers who dream of showcasing their skills and riding the waves on its dark sands. In summer, Karekare Beach becomes a favorite spot for Aucklanders and international visitors alike. People come here to sunbathe, surf, swim, and enjoy the vibrant beach atmosphere.

At the northern end of the beach, a bronze plaque commemorates the 24 local surf lifesavers who went off to fight in Europe during World War II. The southern part of the beach features an old tramline, at the end of which sits the rusting remains of a steam locomotive — a reminder of the area’s once-thriving logging industry.

Karekare Beach

Must-visit reason: New Zealand’s most famous black sand beach

Continent where the attraction is located: Oceania

Country/Region where the attraction is located: New Zealand

Province/State where the attraction is located: Auckland Region

City where the attraction is located: Auckland