Himatangi Beach is a small coastal community in the centre of the largest sand dune geographical feature in New Zealand. It has a long sandy beach accessible to vehicles. Its coastal climate differs from the Manawatu with more sunshine hours, less rain and higher temperatures. Himatangi has a population of around 430 residents swelling to several thousand in the summer months. Its population is varied with artisans, commuters, first home buyers, weekenders and retired, all living together in a homogenous mix. Situated on the west coast of North Island New Zealand, this beach services Palmerston North, Feilding and the entire Manawatu.