close button

Auckland's best outdoor swimming spots

Feb 5, 2016 What's On

After spending a summer break in the city, Kiwi Olympic swimmer Lauren Boyle shares her favourite Auckland swimming spots.

Lauren Boyle

Maori Bay near Muriwai is secluded and great for surfing – not that I could surf there – but  it’s a cool place to go and relax and watch the pros. West coast black sand makes for a scenic change from the pool.

Minnehaha Beach (aka Thorne Bay) is a nicely secluded spot close to Takapuna. There aren’t many waves but it feels quite private and has a few rocks to break up the coast line. Obviously there’s a fantastic view to Rangitoto as most of the east coast bays are afforded with. You can swim there from Takapuna if you’re feeling ambitious!

I love Tawharanui. It’s a bit of a stretch to call it Auckland region but it makes a great day trip from the city if you have a free day. It’s in a regional park so feels untouched; I once found a real sea sponge there – you can see a lot of marine life. The waves are great for body surfing.

As for amazing swimming pools, I’ve been lucky to see a fair few. For cool-pools-on-a-bucket-list I’d say the inspiring skyline views from the infinity pool at the Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

In Auckland, sometimes I do my Sunday swim at Parnell Baths because I like swimming in sea water, and the stunning location.
 

Read: 50 things to do in Auckland for under $20 
 

 

Latest

Latest issue shadow

Metro N°444 is Out Now.

Welcome to the new issue of Metro! The Top 50 restaurants in Auckland! What are New Zealand’s mad scientists up to? Ed Hillary and the (or perhaps a) Yeti! We catch up with the affable Jack Tame! As well as the 3-bodied Jess Hong. A studio visit with sculptor Yona Lee! Sam Brooks derides the dearth of arts criticism! What are the Take Out Kids up to when they’re not on TV? And more, much more.

Cover by Sarah Larnach

Buy the latest issue