TRAVEL
THE BEACHES O One of my newest favourite summer traditions is, after a day at work, driving around the Riwaka estuary to my Nana’s house to pick her up and then driving both of us to one of the many beautiful beaches in our region. We then rate the beaches. It’s a hard task and difficult work, but somebody has to do it. Words: Jade Alborn.
KAITERITERI Pros: Kaiteriteri is the most popular beach on this list. With a rich history as a holiday destination for New Zealanders, Kaiteri really is ‘the place to be seen’ during the summer months. Gone Burgers is the ideal place for some tasty takeaways and the Kaiteriteri store provides all sorts of ice cream. With its crescent-shaped, golden-sand beach, Kaiteriteri is postcard perfect and is consistently rated as the top beach in the South Island. Cons: Kaiteriteri’s popularity is both a blessing and curse. While it has all of the facilities you could want, if you are looking for a secluded peaceful experience this may not be the beach for you. In fact, during the peak season you may have to park your car in a different postcode! RATING
LITTLE KAITERITERI Pros: Kaiteriteri’s little sister is my Nana’s favourite beach and for good reason. Little Kaiteriteri has all the beauty of the Kaiteriteri main beach but a more peaceful atmosphere. Without all the noise a nap on the beach is even possible! There is also plenty of parking year round. Cons: Little Kaiteriteri does not have the benefit of a store, so if you are in need of an ice cream you will need to walk over to Kaiteriteri in order to purchase one. But the sacrifice of a store and restaurant is made up for by the serenity of this beach! RATING
32
