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auckland - whitianga AUCKLAND - WHITIANGA (via Thames & Coromandel) Driver Information This is a journey for those that love the beach and coastal drives (and the odd vineyard), and since you will be enjoying part of the stunning Pacific Coast Highway themed route, you can relax in the knowledge you will be experiencing an ocean-flavoured journey with plenty of fabulous photo opportunities. Departing Auckland, which is New Zealand's largest city, enjoy the scenic as you casually wind through stunning farmland, into the rural township of Clevedon before skirting along the Firth of Thames into Thames. From Thames the route to Coromandel winds along the edge of the coast, and will treat you to spectacular coastal and ocean views framed by beautiful beaches fringed with Pohutukawa trees. After exploring the gold-mining town of Coromandel you will continue your drive towards Whitianga, your stop-over for the evening. Some notable stops along the route to Whitianga include: MIRANDA HOT SPRINGS THAMES COROMANDEL DRIVING CREEK RAILWAY CATHEDRAL COVE COROMANDEL COASTAL WALK WHANGAPOUA BEACH WHITIANGA 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... 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. 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. 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. |
Travel distance is approximately 212kms (133 miles).
Thames is the 'Gateway to the Coromandel' and a great place to enjoy the boutique shopping along the historic main street. The Historical Museum is worth a visit to view the displays about the gold rush days and mining of yesteryear while a walk along the boardwalk through the mangroves to the Hide, is a wonderful place to sit and watch birds in the Thames Firth.
Considered one of the most beautiful coastal walks in New Zealand, enjoy views of Great Barrier Island, Cuvier, the Hauraki Gulf and Pacific Ocean on this 3 hour walk.