Piha Beach

Overview

Piha Beach is a stunning black sand beach located on the west coast of Auckland, New Zealand. It is known for its dramatic landscapes, powerful waves, and the iconic Lion Rock.

Piha Beach is one of the most famous and scenic beaches in New Zealand, offering a range of activities and breathtaking views.

Natural Attraction Outdoor Activity

Location

Address

Piha, Waitakere, Auckland

Neighborhood: Waitakere Ranges

Coordinates

-36.983300, 174.466700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 24 hours

tuesday 24 hours

wednesday 24 hours

thursday 24 hours

friday 24 hours

saturday 24 hours

sunday 24 hours

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November to April

Best Time of Day

Mid-morning

Better weather and visibility

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

2 hours

Recommended

4-5 hours

Full Experience

Full day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild

• Wildflowers
• Mild temperatures

summer

Warm

• Warm ocean water
• Long daylight hours

autumn

Cool

• Cooler temperatures
• Beautiful sunsets

winter

Cold

• Storm watching
• Dramatic waves

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check surf conditions
Bring appropriate gear
Respect the environment

What to Bring

essential

Swimwear Towels Sunscreen

seasonal

Warm jacket Umbrella

not allowed

Glass containers Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Strong currents
• Rip tides

Medical facilities: First aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Cards

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Typical Costs

parking $5

food $15

souvenirs $20

Dress Code

Casual, Comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, Sandals or walking shoes, Inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• Not required
• Official website for events
• Varies by event
• Not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Auckland Regional Parks

Size: 30 MB

Features: Maps, Park information, Event details

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Café, visitor areas

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Auckland International Airport

Distance: 45 km

Travel Time: 50 minutes

taxi

$100 50 min

public_transport

$10 1 hour 30 min

From City Center

Distance: 25 km

bus

$5 50 min

taxi

$50 30 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Stunning natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere

Historical Significance: Part of the Waitakere Ranges, significant to local Maori

Insider Tips

Best surf spots are known locally
Early mornings are the best for photography

Local Recommendations

• Try the local fish and chips
• Visit the Piha Café for coffee

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Kia ora

thank_you Kia ora

where_is Kei hea...

how_much Pehea te utu...

beautiful Mauri ora

ticket Tikitia

Guide Languages: English, Maori

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Lion Rock

Best Time: Sunrise or sunset

Tips: Wide-angle shots

Result: Stunning landscape photos

#PihaBeach #LionRock #BlackSandBeach

Photography Rules

allowed areas Beach, viewpoints

prohibited areas Private property

flash photography Allowed

commercial photography Permit needed

drone policy Permit required

tripod policy Allowed

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Waitakere Ranges Regional Park

Distance: 10 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Park

Arataki Visitor Centre

Distance: 5 km