Piha is the epitome of West Coast beaches and truly a breathtaking embodiment to New Zealand's natural beauty. Even if the water is too cold in winter, you can experience a nature hike in the surrounding bush to a hidden waterfall or take a climb up the legendary Lion's Rock. Just remember to breathe.
The dog laws might have changed but there's still plenty of great places for dogs and pampered pooches to play when off-leash when they hit the black sands of Piha. Head along to the middle of North Piha beach for the off-leash area and keep the dogs away from the rocks at either end as this is where penguins nest. My dogs love coming here on a Sunday morning and meeting and greeting the other local dogs while enjoying a bit of old-fashioned play.