Ah, we visited Snells Beach :-) Sleepy town, long shell beach, only a couple of takeaway shops. The water is warmer than anywhere I've lived (true of the whole region, I expect). You have to go through "the worst intersection in New Zealand" to get there, quoting the locals. Weird 5-way stop on the highway. One excellent coffee shop/brunch place on the way into town. Our car dealer worked in North Shore Auckland and lived in Snells Beach, so that's apparently doable.

Quote Originally Posted by Carey View Post
Snells Beach, Algies Bay, Matakana......near to the town of Warkworth which is set to grow x 5 in the future. AKL an hours drive away, Albany 45 mins. Beaches, Regional Parks, stunning views, peace and quiet if you want it. Winter mild.