Te Paki Sand Dunes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Te Paki Sand Dunes |
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| Giant Sand Dunes | |
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A Te Paki Sand Dune
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 Location in North Island
 Location in New Zealand
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| Location | Northland, New Zealand |
| Coordinates | 34°32′S 172°46′E / 34.54°S 172.77°E |
| Elevation | 150 metres (492 ft) |
| Area | 10 square kilometres (3.9 sq mi) |
The Te Paki Sand Dunes, also known as the Giant Sand Dunes, are huge piles of sand found on the Northland Peninsula in New Zealand. These amazing dunes are right next to the famous Ninety Mile Beach. They are a super popular place for an exciting activity called sandboarding.
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Exploring the Giant Sand Dunes
These massive sand dunes are located on the western side of the Aupouri Peninsula. This area faces the Tasman Sea. You can find them southeast of the Cape Reinga Lighthouse, which is a well-known landmark.
The Te Paki Sand Dunes cover a large area. They stretch for about 10 kilometers (6 miles) long and 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) wide. Some of these individual dunes are incredibly tall, reaching up to 150 meters (490 feet) high! This makes them the tallest sand dunes in the entire Southern Hemisphere.
Te Paki Stream: A Home for Nature
A small waterway called the Te Paki stream flows through this sandy area. This stream is important because it provides a home for many native flora (plants) and fauna (animals). It's a little oasis of life within the vast sand dunes.
Fun Activities at the Dunes
The Te Paki Sand Dunes are a fantastic spot for outdoor adventures. One of the most popular activities here is sandboarding.
What is Sandboarding?
Sandboarding is a lot like snowboarding, but instead of snow, you slide down giant sand dunes on a special board. It's a thrilling experience that many visitors enjoy.
Guided Tours and Sandboarding
Many guided tours that visit Cape Reinga Lighthouse often make a stop at the Te Paki Sand Dunes. This gives people a chance to try sandboarding and have some fun on the massive dunes. It's a memorable part of exploring the northern tip of New Zealand.
