Kaipara Heads Sand Dunes
Explore the surreal, vast Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes, a free desert-like landscape perfect for sandboarding adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for sandboarding
Kaipara Heads Sand Dunes
Best Time
Best for sandboarding
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the surreal, vast Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes, a free desert-like landscape perfect for sandboarding adventures.
"It's like I found myself on Martian lands today. What I love about being up the top here is the incredible creations that have been made by the sand."
Rent a Sandboard! :surfboard:
Essential for the full experience! Sliding down is pure fun.
Bring Water & Snacks :water_wave:
It's a desert-like environment, stay hydrated and fueled for your climb.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes
Cape Reinga
Vast, towering sand dunes offering a surreal desert landscape and thrilling sandboarding opportunities.
Sandboarding Thrills
Dune slopes
Slide down massive golden slopes on a rented board for an exhilarating and unforgettable adventure.
Martian Landscape Views
Top of the dunes
Experience breathtaking panoramic views of the dunes, ocean, and surrounding landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Adventure
Best Footwear & Gear
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Rent a Sandboard! :surfboard:
Essential for the full experience! Sliding down is pure fun.
Bring Water & Snacks :water_wave:
It's a desert-like environment, stay hydrated and fueled for your climb.
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Or go barefoot! The sand is soft, but the climb can be tiring.
Capture the Views :camera_with_flash:
The landscape is surreal and perfect for photos. +1
Tips
from all over the internet
Rent a Sandboard! :surfboard:
Essential for the full experience! Sliding down is pure fun.
Bring Water & Snacks :water_wave:
It's a desert-like environment, stay hydrated and fueled for your climb.
Wear Comfy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
Or go barefoot! The sand is soft, but the climb can be tiring.
Capture the Views :camera_with_flash:
The landscape is surreal and perfect for photos. +1
Check Road Conditions :road:
The access road is gravel; ensure your vehicle is suitable.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes, calling it a free, surreal 'Egyptian' experience in New Zealand. The sheer scale of the dunes and the fun of sandboarding are major highlights, offering a unique adventure for all ages. Some note the challenging climb and the need for suitable footwear.
"What a cool thing to get to explore and for free! Unless you rent a board to ride down. It was fun walking across the dunes and surprisingly fun to run down steep hills, plus the small stream you cross to get on is nice as well. Was well worth the stop."
Emma Pitcher
"Budget Egypt Experience Without Leaving NZ 🤣🌬️
If you ever wanted to prank your friends and tell them “Bro I’m in Egypt riding camels” just come to the Giant Sand Dunes... One good photo here and people will be asking what flight you took and why your passport suddenly has Arabic stamps... 😂
The dunes are MASSIVE... Like you see ocean then boom Sahara Desert vibes then boom green forest... New Zealand out here mixing three different countries into one location for free...
The sand is super soft every step feels like you’re sinking into a warm pillow...
Parking? Plenty.
Toilet? Yes available.
Road? 10 minutes of gravel,nothing crazy unless your car scared of dirt...
You can rent a board and slide down like a kid on sugar or if you’re broke or brave just roll down using your body same thrill more comedy... 🤣
Definitely worth a visit the views.. The photos.. The feeling of walking on giant dunes… all next level...
Logan was here 🏜️ keeps walking searching for camel's..."
Logan S.
"Lucky to visit this amazing place with family a number of times & doesn’t really get old. Love the texture of the landscape.
Best to come when it’s not too hot & dry so you can walk further up, explore and wonder at its beauty. However, if you’re after the sandboarding, best time would be summer time so your board can easily slide down."
Winnie Rivera
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kaipara Heads Sand Dunes, often referred to as the Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes, are located near Cape Reinga in Northland, New Zealand. The drive involves about 10 minutes of gravel road, which is generally manageable for most vehicles, though a 4x4 is not strictly necessary unless conditions are very poor.
While 90 Mile Beach is a public highway, driving on it requires caution and knowledge of tides and conditions. It's generally recommended to stick to the main roads leading to the Te Paki dunes unless you are experienced and have a suitable vehicle.
From Kaitaia, head north towards Cape Reinga. The Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes are well-signposted and are a short drive before reaching the Cape Reinga lighthouse.
Yes, there is ample parking available at the base of the Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes, making it easy to access the area.
Restroom facilities are available at the sand dunes, which is convenient for visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes is free! You only pay if you choose to rent sandboards or bodyboards.
The sand dunes are a natural attraction and are accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
Sandboard rentals typically cost around $30 NZD for a few hours, offering great value for the fun you'll have.
Absolutely! Bringing your own sandboard or bodyboard is a great way to save on rental costs and enjoy the dunes.
There is no admission fee for the Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes. It's a free natural attraction for everyone to enjoy.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main activities include climbing the massive dunes, sandboarding or bodyboarding down the slopes, and enjoying the unique 'Martian' landscape. It's also a great spot for photography. +1
The climb can be challenging due to the steepness and soft sand, which can feel like sinking with every step. It's a good workout!
Many visitors find renting a sandboard or bodyboard and sliding down the dunes to be the most thrilling and fun way to experience them.
Yes, children often have a fantastic time running down the dunes and playing in the sand. Adult supervision is recommended.
From the top, you'll get incredible panoramic views of the vast sand dunes, the Tasman Sea, and the surrounding Northland landscape.
📸 📸 Photography
The sheer scale of the dunes, the patterns created by the wind, and the contrast with the ocean and sky offer endless photographic possibilities. The 'Martian landscape' feel is also very photogenic. +1
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for dramatic shots. Midday sun can create harsh shadows but also highlights the textures of the sand.
Include people or objects in your shots to give a sense of scale. Wide-angle lenses can also help capture the vastness of the landscape.
The highest dunes, particularly the one to the far left, offer the most dramatic views and are excellent for capturing both the dunes and the ocean.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the blue of the sky and sea. Protect your gear from sand.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the climb can be tiring, the joy on children's faces as they slide down makes it all worthwhile. The dunes offer a safe and exciting natural playground. Ensure you supervise younger children closely, especially near the steeper slopes.
💰 Budget Travelers
The only potential cost is renting a sandboard or bodyboard, which is a worthwhile splurge for the added fun. Bringing your own water and snacks from a local supermarket will also save money compared to purchasing them nearby.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the golden hours for the most magical light. Wide-angle lenses are perfect for capturing the immense scale of the dunes. Be mindful of protecting your camera gear from the fine sand.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Te Paki Giant Sand Dunes Experience
The primary draw for many is the exhilarating experience of sandboarding or bodyboarding down the steep, golden slopes. Renting a board is highly recommended, as it transforms the challenging climb into an incredibly fun descent. The tallest dunes, especially those on the far left, offer the most thrilling rides and breathtaking panoramic views of the dunes meeting the ocean.
Beyond the thrill, simply exploring the ever-shifting landscape is an adventure. The soft, fine sand makes for a unique walking experience, and the sheer scale of the dunes is awe-inspiring. It's a place where you can feel a sense of freedom and wonder, making it a must-visit for any traveler exploring the North Island.
Practicalities for Your Visit
When it comes to what to wear, comfortable shoes are key, or you can embrace the experience by going barefoot. Be prepared for the sand to get everywhere! Bringing plenty of water and snacks is advisable, as you'll likely spend a good amount of time climbing and playing.
For those looking to maximize the fun, renting a sandboard or bodyboard is a popular choice. These can be rented on-site, typically for around $30 NZD. Alternatively, you can bring your own equipment. The experience is entirely free, making it an accessible adventure for most budgets.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit