I love every opportunity I get to leave Auckland and explore the beautiful (but not tropical) beaches of Aotearoa. While I’m not the biggest fan of camping, there's something magical about sleeping under the stars, surrounded by the soothing sounds of the ocean. If you're a nature lover seeking a perfect camping spot on the coast, look no further than Hahei Beach. 

Hahei is located on the eastern coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. It’s a hidden gem that has crystal-clear waters, golden pink sands, and an ambiance that's perfect for camping. While we were in Hahei, the weather was a bit chilly but otherwise beautiful blue sky. We explored the beaches, collected lots of shells, and even took a couple of dips in the water. 

My favorite part of the whole trip was watching the sunset from Te Pare Pā. You can see all the surrounding limestone islands that have been eroded by the coast. It was beyond picturesque and might be one of my favorite views from my whole study abroad experience.