Beachlands

A seaside town once populated by week-end baches. Beachlands is a twin town with nearby Maraetai, the pair separated by Omana Regional Park. The general area is casually known as the Pohutukawa Coast thanks the abundance of the "Kiwi Christmas Tree", making it rather picturesque in the holiday season.
Both towns have experienced tremendous growth since the Millenium with the addition of small subdivisions, and now burgeoning housing estates. Nevertheless the holiday town feeling remains with a small group of seaside shops servicing Beachlands until the planned supermarket complex is constructed in 2017.
Hotels and Apartments are also expected to change up the town which still struggles with infrastructure issues like roading, water (tank only) and schooling. Several sandy beaches remain the drawcard for thousands of day visitors from all over Auckland who populate the place in summertime. Locals favour Shelly Beach, while boaties like the ramp facility at Sunkist Bay. Part of the attraction for the new settlers to the area is a tight community, for others, the proximity of Pine Harbour marina, a walk for some or a short drive for others.
A commuter ferry service to downtown Auckland has gained popularity with a single boat gradually replaced by bigger and bigger catamarans, now operated by Sealink which also runs the Half Moon Bay ferries. There are a few eateries at the marina as well as the French Market on Saturdays.

Image Credits: Michelle Tatler Photographer