HOW TO | drive on Muriwai Beach

Muriwai Beach can be access for 4WD trips three hours either side of low tide. Photo: Auckland Council

AutoMuse is based at Parihoa with the farmland straddling Te Henga and Muriwai and Bethells beaches.

Not only does it mean stunning views, but also a 10-minute drive to access Muriwai beach, one of only two beaches in the Auckland region to allow vehicles to drive on it – but there are limits.

First, make sure you have a vehicle suitable for driving on the sand with low ratio and preferably a ‘sand’ setting in your SUV.

If you're planning to drive on Muriwai (or Karioitahi) beaches, Auckland Council says you need to apply for a free permit first.

All you need to do is fill in your details and make sure you have your permit and driver’s licence with you when you go on the beach.

The council says to remember to read the rules and guidelines that come with the permit. These stress the importance of staying off the dunes, looking out for partially submerged objects, only accessing the beach three hours either side of low tide, and slowing down when there are people or animals around.

It also says that if you take your vehicle into the sand dunes, you will be prosecuted or fined.

Driving on all other beaches is also prohibited, except to launch or retrieve a boat, or in emergency situations.

Try driving on the hard sand nearer the water (but not too close) and avoid puddles as you don’t know how deep they go.

Here are some guidelines for driving on Muriwai Beach:

• Muriwai Beach from southern boundary of Motutara Road to 650m north of Coast Road access: 30km/h.

• Muriwai Beach from 650m north of Coast Road access to southern extent of New Zealand Defence Force bombing range: 60km/h.

• Take safety equipment, including a spade and a rope.

• Always drive with headlights on.

• Stick to the hard part of the beach below the high tide line. Check tide times before you go out.