Te Henga (Bethells Beach)

About

Te Henga, Bethells Beach, is the least visited of the big west coast beaches and the one that feels most remote. Black iron sand, high dunes, and a river mouth that shifts with the weather. Behind the dunes sits Lake Wainamu, reached across the sand, and it is the swimming option most locals take when the surf is up. The beach itself has seasonal summer surf patrols, and the standard west coast rule applies. Swim between the flags or do not swim. Two things to plan for. There is no mobile coverage at Bethells, and parking is limited enough that a fine Sunday fills it early. Track closures here have been significant since the 2023 storms, so check Auckland Council's current track status before you set out on anything specific.