OHOPE BEACH, BAY OF PLENTY: A long stretch of sand, plenty of sun and a sense of seclusion.

MANU BAY, WAIKATO: One of three world-class point breaks near Raglan.

OAKURA BEACH, TARANAKI: Black sand and surf with New Plymouths Paritutu rock in the distance.

WAITARERE BEACH, MANAWATU: A wide, legal road popular with quadbike and dirtbike riders.

CAROLINE BAY, TIMARU: Smooth and safe, an ideal beach for families.

With so many beautiful beaches, we are spoilt for choice. Six locals give the lowdown on a top seaside spot in their region, and why you should visit.

Ohope Beach,Bay of Plenty

While many holidaymakers in the North Island head to the Coromandel, those after a bit of quiet seclusion go to Ohope Beach. It's easy to find your own spot on this long, sandy stretch, one of the sunniest places in the country. A lack of development means it still feels like a 70s beach town.

How to get there: Fly into nearby Whakatane Airport or Rotorua Airport and then drive for about an hour. If driving, you need to go through Whakatane and from there it's a 10-minute trip. You can also get there via Opotiki if you're heading around the coast.

Best for: Relaxing. The nicest spot is West End, where you'll also find the best waves if you're keen to do some surfing. The beach is safe for families and it has a surf club which operates in summer. If you get tired of lazing around on the beach, there is a mix of walks to historic pa sites, through wildlife reserves, and to hidden beaches.

Read the rest here:

Six great Kiwi beaches