Te Paki Stream is the northern access point for Ninety Mile Beach, where the stream meets the sand at the far end of the Aupouri Peninsula. All tour buses heading to and from Cape Reinga use this route, and it is the only vehicle crossing between the beach and the road at the northern end.
The stream flows out onto the beach through a shallow, shifting channel. At the inland end where it meets the sealed road, there is a car park and toilet block. From here, the giant Te Paki sand dunes rise on the northern side -- some of the largest in the southern hemisphere. Walking to the top takes real effort, but sandboarding back down is worth every step. Keep your mouth closed on the way down.
Driving the stream requires care. Stay on sand as much as possible and avoid stopping in the water -- some areas are effectively slow quicksand that will trap a stationary vehicle. When transitioning between sand and water, take any drops or rises at an angle rather than head-on. About halfway along, the stream splits into two channels separated by bullrushes. In summer with low water this is straightforward; after rain, get out and check the depth before committing. Keep the vehicle in third gear (or second in 4L) and do not stop. These rules apply specifically to Te Paki Stream -- other stream crossings in the area have different conditions.