Kariotahi Beach, Black sand beach in Auckland region, New Zealand
Kariotahi Beach is a black sand beach on the west coast of New Zealand's North Island, located south of Auckland. The sand runs along a line of natural dunes that separate the shore from the low hills behind.
The name Kariotahi comes from the Maori language and has long been tied to this stretch of coastline. The current spelling was formally recorded in 1950, during a wider effort to standardize place names across New Zealand.
Kariotahi draws surfers who come for the strong west coast waves that roll in steadily throughout the year. Walkers and anglers are also a common sight along the shore, giving the beach a relaxed, everyday feel.
The beach has a parking area, restrooms, and picnic spots near the entrance. A short boardwalk leads from the car park down to the sand, making the walk easy for most visitors.
The black color of the sand comes from volcanic material carried by the Waikato River from the interior of the North Island. The same iron-rich sand is found along much of the west coast, but at Kariotahi it is especially noticeable against the open sky and dunes.
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