New Zealand's favourite family beaches have been revealed with Dunedin's St Clair beach landing itself a spot in the top 10.
The AA has put out a list of the 10 top spots throughout the country. AA Traveller marketing manager Rhys James said a beach's popularity was often down to what nearby activities were on offer.
"They're looking for a beach that offers safe swimming, but beyond that they also want good facilities, including barbecues and playgrounds, walking and cycling tracks and places to eat nearby so they can really make a day of it."
St Clair beach is near a playground, the St Clair Hot Salt Water Pool and is close to the esplanade, which has several restaurants and shops. St Clair was popular for both surfers and paddlers.
"A beach like Caroline Bay in Timaru is not only considered one of the country's safest swimming beaches, but it also has plenty of other attractions like the Trevor Griffiths Rose Garden, a maze, mini golf, a paddling pool and a playground, which makes it a popular spot and keeps families coming back," Mr James said.
"It's places like these that appeal and the good thing is you can find them throughout the country,'' he said.
Mr James encouraged Kiwi families to expand their horizons, and head to a beach they hadn't visited before.
"They've found a place that works for everyone, but we want to show Kiwis that there are plenty out there to choose from, so don't be afraid to head to a new place this summer.''
Top 10 family favourites are:
*St Clair Beach, Otago
*Te Tii Bay, Paihia
*Matapouri Bay, Northland
*Cheltenham Beach, Auckland
*Long Bay Regional Park, Auckland
*Oriental Bay Beach, Wellington
*Kaiteriteri Beach, Nelson/Tasman
*Caroline Bay, Timaru
*Sumner, Christchurch
*Rabbit Island, Nelson
