They take you to the spectacularly situated and wind swept Cape Reinga lighthouse. On the way they drive on the famous ninety mile beach which is in fact one of the most dangerous roads in the world. Cars have sunk into the sand or have even been swept out to sea. They take you sand boarding on the giant sand hills.

It is an exciting day out for only NZ$40.

The coach tour I went on (Kiwi Experience) drove along Ninety Mile Beach first. And its pretty incredible. Its not actually 90 miles as your tour guide will probably tell you but as mile after mile of golden beach stretches along the coast, it certainly feels like it. And apart from the odd coach bus you have it all to yourselves. Its beautful and desolate. Make sure you have enough water because you're not going to find many cafes around here.

We stopped along the way to Cape Reinga to go sand surfing. Such fun. And effort. Climbing up a huge sand dune with a body board under your arm is flipping hard work. Especially when the wind catches the board and the sand half blinds you - sunglasses are essential.

When you finally reach the top and trust me they may be times when its in doubt - its a loooong way down. But when you're hurtling down the dune trying desparately not to plunge into the little stream at the bottom, it is all worth it. Use your feet to slow down and keep your body straight if you don't want to slam into a spin.

After all that excitement we drove on to Cape Reinga. The northern most point of New Zealand. The clash where the Pacific and the Tasmin meet is clearly discernable and the view is quite spectacular. There's a pretty lighthouse and the obligatory signpost to let you know how many miles it is to home. Always useful.

Cape Reinga is more than a pretty view. Its an important spiritual site to the Maoris. And all visitors are requested not to consume food here as a sign of respect. Maori traditions believe that their souls pass through Cape Reinga onto the fabled land of the dead. Try and visit here when its not so crowded and you can get some sense of atmosphere.

Its a long day trip but well worth it for the spectacular views and of course the sand surfing.