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Locals in Auckland will tell you the trek to Waipiro Bay on the South Kaipara peninsula is an adventure in itself. Virtually the most remote stretch of beach in all of the city, the sandy, shelled coastline is dotted with wading birds amid glimmering clear waters. This extremely well-kept secret of Auckland is only one out of hundreds of remote regions that you can visit on your locum tenens assignment.
The remoteness of Auckland's secret bays, called Wattle Bay on Manukau Harbour, guarantees complete solitude for any day tripper heading to the beach. About a 60-minute drive from downtown Auckland, the bays rest on the Awhitu peninsula and have a golden sand different from other sections of the harbour. Make sure to find hidden landmarks such as the historic Awhitu Lighthouse during your trip, where you can view the massive promontories that form the entrance to the harbour, the Manukau Heads.
On the west coast of the country, Mercer Bay beats Piha and Karekare beach as one of the wildest and most remote stretches of sand in the country. Adventurous explorers can reach the coastline by foot, but the best way to get to the beach is by boat. No matter how you get there, the view will take your breath away. The cliffs above Mercer are the highest in the region, creating a monumental view of the cascading waves and horizon below.
Other beaches that must make it on your top Auckland spots list include Charcoal Bay, Esplanade Reserve and Kelvin Strand beaches.