Te Paki Sand Dunes

These sand dunes make you

feel as though you have just set foot on Mars. When amongst the dunes, all you can see is sand, sand, and more sand.

These dunes are located next to the iconic Ninety Mile Beach (which is actually only 55 miles). They cover an area approximately 6.2 miles long, and some individual dunes reach heights up to 490 feet. These dunes are made up of fine sand, which was carried by a westerly wind from the Tasman Sea and accumulated here. The dunes are bordered by the coastline on three sides.

If you’re adventurous and don’t mind the possibility of consuming sand, bring your own sled or rent one at the entrance for some exhilarating sandboarding. A proper “sandboard” is preferable as anything too thin or flimsy could be uncomfortable on the way down. That being said, you may see some crazy souls going down on old real estate signs so getting creative is always welcome.