User:Mozasaur/beachtemplate



Bethels Beach - is a coastal community located in the north of the North island, New Zealand.

Location
It is approximately 30 kilometres Northwest of Auckland city, on the Tasman Sea. One of several popular resorts in the area (others include Piha and Karekare), it experiences a population explosion in summer when Aucklanders head to the sea.

"The countryside quickly becomes picturesque with orchards, fruit stands and rolling hills. This area includes many wonderful "walking" (hiking) trails, and the beautiful and wild west coast beaches of Piha, Muriwai and Bethels Beach where Hercules and Xena are filmed." 

Activity

 * Surfing is the main pastime. Other pastimes include parasailing and hang gliding, for which the prevailing westerly wind often provides favourable conditions.
 * Fishing is also popular, although dangerous in many places.
 * Bush Walking is encouraged, with boardwalks in place.
 * Sunbathing, swimming, picnics.

Geology
Sand and Rock, Older volcanic material, with many concretions and layers in the cliff walls. A cave exists at the southern end of the beach.

Black sand beach
It is also unique because of its black sand, caused by the iron content derived from the ancient volcanoes in the area. Despite this, the area has retained much of its natural beauty and isolation.

Art - Clown classes available
Lisa Brickell promotes her clown classes at the beautiful Aio Wira retreat centre in the Waitakere Ranges, near Bethells Beach on the west coast of Auckland, New Zealand.