10 Swimming Spots you should visit this NZ Summer
When it comes to an NZ Summer – Popping a “Manu” into any body of water you can find is about as Kiwi as it can get, but sometimes finding a suitable body of water is easier said than done. Luckily for you, we’ve put together a list of the top 10 Swimming Spots that have been dropped as “crumbs” on Breadcrumbs. From golden sand beaches to bright blue southern rivers, New Zealand has an abundance of stunning spots to cool off a few degs. Remember to check the water quality on “Can I Swim Here” site in any areas that are surrounded by agriculture before swimming.
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New Chums Beach/Lookout, The Coromandel
One of the most beautiful spots in The Coromandel region, New Chums beach is a golden sand beach surrounded by native forest. If you are really keen, head along early and climb up New Chums Lookout for sunrise – you won’t be disappointed!
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Cleopatra’s Pools, Abel Tasman National Park
Set in the midst of Abel Tasman National Park, Cleopatra’s Pools are one of the many day trips within the park that you simply can’t miss. Scramble over the rocks to get a bit further up the river and avoid the crowd, you will find a small waterfall that looks straight out of an Indiana Jones flick.
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Waiohine Gorge, Wairarapa
Nice and accessible for Wellingtonians, Waiohine gorge is an epic spot to camp out, head to for a day trip or to start many of the Tararua’s great hikes from. An absolute gem in the summer heat, head along for a dip in the icy cold, but clean AF waters of the Waiohine river.
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Torrent Bay, Abel Tasman National Park
Featuring one of the campsites along the Abel Tasman Coast Track, Torrent Bay is the perfect place to set up a base for a couple of nights to explore the area around (including the aforementioned Cleo’s Pools). The inlet at high tide provides a warm spot for a dip, while the beach just round the corner is good at any time!
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Maraetotara Falls, Hawkes Bay
Not far out of Havelock North in the Hawkes Bay, Maraetotara Falls provides an awesome spot to rinse in that hot Hawkes Bay sun. This is one that has varied in water quality so be sure to check out the “Can I swim here” latest testing reports before going in the water – unless E.Coli is a friend of yours.
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Blue Pools, Mount Aspiring National Park
One of the more popular stops on the southern circuit and for those brave enough a very cold spot to pop a “sweet as manu”. Great bridge to jump off & usually a crowd around to encourage you. Find the Blue Pools on the drive from Wanaka to the West Coast.
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Matapouri Beach, Northland
Absolute banger of a beach! Lovely golden sand and the gateway to the famous “mermaid pools”. Beat the rush and head to the pools early in the day then spend the afternoon chilling at the main beach – perfect!
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Castlepoint, Wairarapa
Another banger of a spot for the Wellingtonians out there! Castlepoint is a secluded settlement of classic kiwi baches and campsites. “The Gap” provides consistently solid surf, meanwhile there are multiple short walks to explore in the area.
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Anaura Bay, East Cape
Set on the secluded and rugged east cape, Anaura bay has a Doc campsite (self-contained only) and a sexy, sexy beach right on it’s doorstep. If you are heading in the East Cape/Gizzy direction, Anaura bay should be on your list.
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Whale Bay, Northland
If seclusion is what you are seeking then look no further than Whale Bay in the far north! This beach is absolutely stunning and more often than not, totally deserted.
All of these Swimming Spots and many, many more have been Dropped as “Crumbs” on Breadcrumbs app. To experience your own personalized tour of New Zealand this summer, head over to the app store, download Breadcrumbs and have a scroll! Don’t forget to Drop your own Crumbs on the map when you find experiences that you enjoy.
Think we’ve missed an epic Swimming Spot? Let us know below.