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All New Zealand Puponga Wharariki Beach
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Wharariki Beach

These stunning arched rock formations might be familiar to Windows 10 users.

Puponga, New Zealand

Michael Reinhardt profile photo
  Michael Reinhardt / Atlas Obscura User
  Mitchell Henderson
  Michael Reinhardt / Atlas Obscura User
  Michael Reinhardt / Atlas Obscura User
  Michael Reinhardt / Atlas Obscura User
  Michael Reinhardt / Atlas Obscura User
  Michael Reinhardt / Atlas Obscura User
  Michael Reinhardt / Atlas Obscura User
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About

Wharariki Beach lies at the northernmost point of New Zealand's South Island. Its windswept dunes, dramatic cliffs, caves, rock pools, and abundant seal life alone are enough to make it a worthwhile stop. However, its biggest draw is the Archway Islands: four uniquely shaped rock formations. Water has bored massive tunnels through two of them, resulting in their iconic arch shapes. This silhouette is so distinctive that it caught the eye of Microsoft developers, who made it the default screensaver on computers running Windows 10. Visitors can often be seen recreating the iconic photo of the islands framed by a nearby cave

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Know Before You Go

The rockpools that seal pups love to play in are accessible to visitors at low tide. Visitors must maintain a respectful distance and refrain from chasing or harassing all wildlife. Also note that currents are strong and swimming is not recommended.

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Edited By

linkogecko

Published

July 30, 2025

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