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north island itineraries

coromandel - whitianga

COROMANDEL TOWN - WHITIANGA

Driver Information
New Zealand ItinerariesTravel distance is approximately 46kms (29 miles).
Allow at least 0.5 hour drive time (not including stops).
Part of the Pacific Coast Highway.

Cruising the spectacular east coast of New Zealand's North Island is the highlight for the Pacific Coast Highway route, and because of the unique intermingling of land and sea, it is easy to see why this route is considered one of the top road touring routes in the world.

The Pacific Coast Highway covers 420km's of magnificent scenery, including spectacular coastal scenery, picturesque seaside villages, forest wilderness and grape growing districts.

After a relaxing night in the quaint Coromandel town it’s time to pack your bags and ‘hit the road’ for the next part of your fabulous New Zealand self-drive tour as you head towards Whitianga.

Some notable stops along the route to Whitianga include:

HOT WATER BEACH
Imagine sitting in your own freshly dug hot spa on the beach! Welcome to Hot Water Beach - boasting a truly unique visitor attraction. Due to two hot water springs located nearby the beach, at low tide you can hire a spade and dig your own spa on the sandy beach.

HAHEI
Named after the Maori Cheif Hei, this attractive beach is fringed with native Pohutukawa trees and is a popular place for swimming, boating and fishing. Visit the Southern end of Hahei to view the Te Pare historic reserve, which is the site of an ancient Maori pa.

WHITIANGA
Breathe in the fresh ocean breeze as you arrive in Whitianga and feel instantly revitalised. This is a great beach holiday spot, with fish to catch and shellfish to gather, while the relatively sheltered waters of the bay are great for all water sports.

If you are travelling during peak season we suggest you book your overnight accommodation before you arrive, or arrange accommodation before settling down to enjoy all the local visitor attractions and activities within this stunning location.

Highly recommended Whitianga tourist attractions include...

Cooks Beach - Located just a short ferry ride from Whitianga, Cooks Beach is a popular visitor stop-off due to it's fine golden sand beach, safe swimming waters and the Purangi River picnic spot.

Big Game Fishing & Scenic Cruises - Whitianga is the departure point for big game fishing enthusiasts, with plenty of charter boats of all shapes and sizes available for hire. Scenic Ocean cruises on the azure blue sea is also a relaxing way to spend the afternoon.
Golf - If land sports are more your style, then you wont be disappointed. A selection of attractive golf courses include an 18 hole golf course plus a couple of 9 hole golf courses at Purangi near Cooks Beach and at Matarangi.

Mercury Bay Historical Museum - Located by the wharf in Whitianga, the museum has exhibits dating from 800-950 AD. A popular family attraction with an interactive natural history exhibit, Maori artefacts and much more.

Matarangi - This purpose-built resort town boasts 4.5km's of beautiful sandy beaches and is a lovely, safe swimming spot. Golf, tennis and other activities are also on offer.

Whitianga is a thriving coastal fishing town and you will be spoilt for fresh seafood choices when dining out in any of the great restaurants. During the day there are plenty of activities on the water and land, including surfing, cruises, horse riding, bush walks, land tours, arts, crafts and much more.

As the popularity of this town grows, so doe the choice of accommodation, with many new and renovated accommodation options available to an international standard.