Where to stay

Our own family beach house, two minutes from the sand: three bedrooms plus a bunk rumpus, three bathrooms, pizza oven, spa and the gear already in the garage. The pick for families and groups who want the full setup.

The township's holiday parks put caravans, campervans and cabins within walking distance of the beach and shops, with the usual park facilities. Book well ahead for the summer school holidays.

Ten minutes south, the Department of Conservation ground at Uretiti sits straight behind the dunes on the wild middle of the bay. Basic facilities, unbeatable position, and the beach to yourself at dawn.

Ruakākā, One Tree Point and Waipu Cove all carry a stock of private baches on the usual booking sites, from modest classics to architect-drawn waterfront. Summer weekends go early; winter is a bargain.