Te Henga, Black sand beach in West Auckland, New Zealand
Te Henga stretches for two kilometers along Auckland's west coast, featuring dark volcanic sand and steep cliffs that frame the shoreline against the Tasman Sea.
The area received its dual name Te Henga Bethells Beach after the Bethell family settled there in the early 1900s, while the Māori name references the beach's dune formation.
The Te Henga Valley holds significance for Te Kawerau ā Maki iwi, with archaeological evidence of settlements, fortified sites, and canoe landings dating back to 1600.
Visitors should exercise caution while swimming due to strong rips and currents, with lifeguard patrols operating only during late spring through early autumn months.
Behind the coastal dunes lies Lake Wainamu, a freshwater lake surrounded by large sand formations that provide an alternative swimming location to the ocean beach.
Location: Auckland Region
GPS coordinates: -36.88963,174.45029
Latest update: April 30, 2025 07:21
Auckland reveals itself as a city situated between two seas, with dormant volcanoes forming natural viewpoints and beaches that change color depending on the coastline. It transitions from a tropical park to a history museum, from a night market to a volcanic island in a few minutes, and each neighborhood adds a different vibe. The city features art galleries, wineries, coastal paths, and views overlooking the bay, creating a mosaic of sites to explore from morning till night. This selection highlights the most representative points of interest to understand Auckland's character and enjoy its diverse landscapes.
Kitekite Falls
8.7 km
Pukematekeo
7.9 km
Whites Beach
4.6 km
Muriwai Regional Park
6.9 km
Ruaotuwhenua
10 km
Mokoroa Falls
6.3 km
Goldie Bush Scenic Reserve
5 km
Ark in the Park
7.1 km
Karekare Falls
11.1 km
Lion Rock
7.3 km
The Cascades
6.4 km
Oaia Island
6.5 km
Motutara Island
6.7 km
The Watchman
10.9 km
Company Stream
11.1 km
Nun Rock
7.9 km
Waiti Stream
1.8 km
Mokoroa Stream
5 km
Parkinsons Lookout
11.1 km
North Piha Beach
6.4 km
Wekatahi Creek
6.5 km
Houheria Stream
6 km
Cascade Stream
5.7 km
Karekare Stream
9.9 km
Glen Esk Stream
8 km
Fairy Falls Stream
9.7 km
Karekare Beach
11.2 km
South Piha Beach
7.5 kmReviews
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