This is one of Auckland's best west coast beaches. For those of you who aren't familiar with New Zealand, its west coast tends to be rugged and sparse, both in nature and inhabitants (that includes people). The sea here is no exception and tends to be rough with strong swells, bigger waves and blustery winds. But this provides a strong character from which it derives its beauty. If you've seen any windswept beach photography from New Zealand it was probably taken from this area.
It is a popular spot for surfies, hippies, nature lovers, beach walkers, fisherman and Aucklanders escaping the city. It is possible to swim here but make sure you do so in an area patrolled by surf lifesavers as swimmers can drown from time to time. It is most famous for the large Gannet colony which you can observe from observation decks at the end of a short boardwalk (Oct-Feb). These large gliding sea-birds are a treat to observe but are merely the entree to a beautiful beach walk. Late afternoon is the best time to be here as the sun setting ads pastel colors to everthing giving the place a mellow mood. A walk along the beach can reveal fearless surfers, kite and kontiki fisherman, surfcasters, flotsam on the tidal line, dogs of all shapes and sizes, insurmountable sand dunes, orcas and dolphins out to see, foamy waves and patches of iron rich black sand. Good all year round.
http://www.auckland.nz.com/beaches/muriwai.aspx
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