Karioitahi Beach｜A Healing Coastal Retreat with Black Sand and Cliffs

📍 Location Karioitahi Beach is located approximately 70 kilometers southwest of Auckland city center, in the Franklin area of the Waikato region, near the town of Waiuku. It is renowned for its black volcanic sand, expansive ocean views, and paragliding activities. ⸻ 🚗 Transportation • Driving: From the city center, it takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes by car. It is recommended to take the SH1 highway and turn into Waiuku town, then follow Karioitahi Road to the end to reach the beach. There is a parking lot on-site, and spaces are usually available on weekdays. • No public transportation routes are available, so driving or renting a car is recommended. ⸻ 📝 Personal Experience This was my first time seeing a black sand beach, and stepping onto the sand gave me an inexplicable sense of awe. The sand at Karioitahi is composed of volcanic debris, making it slightly harder than regular beach sand, but it has a unique rugged beauty. The coastline stretches straight ahead, flanked by cliffs and hills, creating a visually stunning scene. Due to its remote location, there are few visitors, making the beach feel almost like a private retreat. The wind here is incredibly strong, making it a paradise for paragliding enthusiasts. Just standing by the shore and feeling the wind was exhilarating and therapeutic. Many locals bring their camper vans to watch the sunset, while others walk their dogs, play in the sand, or fly kites. It feels more like a hidden weekend getaway for Auckland residents. I walked a short trail along the cliffs, overlooking the black sand and distant waves. The view was a striking blend of desolation and beauty, reminiscent of an apocalyptic scene. There aren’t many tourist facilities, but this only adds to the natural, free, and pristine charm of the place.