Hot Water Beach, New Zealand // Photo Diary

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I came to Hot Water Beach primarily to work. When I first arrived in New Zealand on March 17, I spent a couple of weeks roaming around, mostly within the vicinity of Auckland. I was only just beginning to look for work (I’m here on a working holiday visa), just to see what was available. I came across exactly two job listings that caught my interest, and I sent my resumes on a whim. I was offered both jobs almost immediately—one on Waiheke Island and the other on Hot Water Beach.

I spent a few days deciding between the two but ultimately chose to work at Hot Water Beach. I’ve been here for two months now, so I’m about to go traveling for the off-season.

The main draw of Hot Water Beach is…well, the hot water. The water (which is over 100 degrees F) sits below the sand and is only accessible during low-tide. For about 2 hours before and after low-tide, you can dig into the sand and create your own personal hot tub. Visitors crowd onto the beach during this time, and it can be a really fun experience.

However, the novelty of the hot water wears off when you live there for a while. I only went one time, and that was enough. It’s such a beautiful place, though, so it’s hard to get tired of it. Visiting the beach outside of low-tide hours is still a lot of fun, and it’s much more relaxing without the crowds.

Hot Water Beach became my New Zealand home. I’m grateful for the time I spent there, and for finding a place to go back to after traveling.