So far 2,387 backers have donated $166,079 (£75,327) to the cause, which has 19 days left to raise the required amount.

"If every New Zealander donated 50c (23p) the beach would be guaranteed to be available for everyone," Major told 3 News.

He says the idea to crowdfund the beach was inspired by some "lively banter" with his brother-in-law on Christmas day.

"In the middle of the banter was this example of a most beautiful piece of earth being sold in the heart of our beloved Abel Tasman National Park. We started to dream what if we could start a givelalittle campaign to purchase for everyone to enjoy forever."

"So after the classic "I WILL, IF YOU WILL" conversation, here we are."

“It's for everyone to enjoy forever”: crowdfunders unite to give private beach back to New Zealand locals