Hard to believe that Piha Beach is still part of Auckland, given that it is about an hours drive away from the city centre. Even on a busy day, the beach is never really crowded. It is a wonderful weekend destination, with its soft sand, turquoise waters and rugged rocks.

The beach is divided into two stretches by the iconic Lion Rock, which thrones in the middle. Lion Rock can be climbed and provides with a great view of the beach. Piha beach is a favourite tourist destination, but also Aucklanders like to come out here and enjoy a quiet day on the water.