Pauanui, Coromandel Peninsula

Pauanui is one of those New ZealandÂ towns that has absolutely nothing going on for most of the year. Then summer arrives, and BOOM, it’s bursting at the seams as half the population of Auckland heads to the stunning little beach. Sitting on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, Pauanui lies about half an hour north of Whangamata and only around two hours drive from Auckland, which explains why it has become a very desirable and highly sought-after holiday hotspot. It may also have something to do with the scenery. The gorgeous white sand beaches, the beautiful family-friendly Tairua Harbour, not to mention the relatively close proximity to locations like Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove.

I spent a week in Pauanui earlier this year. Turns out March is the perfect time to go. There wasn’t a soul there other than the locals, as all the visitors had returned to the city from their summer holiday, plus the weather was still warm and summery. I pretty much had the beach to myself. My day trip up to Hahei was a major highlight. Kayaking around to Cathedral Cove was something I would definitely recommend.

Of course, I also managed to capture some of the breathtaking scenery with my camera. I was hoping to take advantage of the lack of light pollution and get out for some astrophotography, but the moon was too bright. Next time maybe. There will definitely be a next time!