Head to the old Pouto lighthouse at the southern tip of Northland's Pouto Peninsula, near the mouth of the Kaipara Harbour - a bucket-list beach drive for any Kiwi who loves sand. The run reaches the lighthouse via the long expanse of Ripiro Beach and rolling dunes that seem to go on forever, with plenty of cool spots to camp for a night or two and wildlife to watch out for. A lighthouse was built at North Head in 1884. The customs office shifted to Te Kōpuru in 1903, the light was automated in 1947 and closed in the mid 1950s; the structure still stands and was renovated in 1982-84. The sand is very soft throughout, with quicksand patches and sudden drop-offs that appear without warning, so 4WD is essential - air down (around 12psi), keep your momentum and carry recovery gear. Cell service is poor, so don't tackle it solo if you're inexperienced with sand. Watch the tides closely; it's easy to get caught out. And please take your rubbish home.