Located in the beautiful sun-drenched Mercury Bay area, on the Coromandel Peninsula, is Whitianga, a thriving coastal town that provides an easily accessible base to get out and explore some of New Zealand’s best beaches. The breathtaking gateway beach of Hahei, the white sands of Matarangi and the surfing mecca of Kuaotunu are just some of the unforgettable New Zealand beaches that can be experienced not far from the thriving town of Whitianga.
Experiencing the best of Whitianga’s beaches
Kuaotunu might be a world-away from some of the more sheltered and seclude beaches of the Mercury Bay area, but it is just as stunning. Kuaotunu is a sweet costal village that is just begging you to get out on the water and experience its marine adventures. Fancy a relaxing dip? Throw on your swimming costume and bath in the calm waters of the white sandy Kuaotunu Bay where friendly dolphins are known to frequent.
Keen to try some world-class diving or snorkelling? No problem, there are so many diving, fishing and snorkelling charter options to choose from in this area. Epic surfing for the experienced can also be had at the famous blackjack reef.
Want to explore some of New Zealand’s illustrious history? Take walk through ancient native bush and lush farmland to discover several Maori pa sites that still stand guard across the area.
The East Coast beach resort of Matarangi is another special slice of pure New Zealand and is just a short drive from Whitianga.
Matarangi is a modern New Zealand holiday town, known for its luxury holiday homes, and championship golf course – complete with spectacular sweeping views of the surrounding bay – designed by New Zealand legendary golfer Bob Charles.
The 4km (2.4 mile approx.) Matarangi Bay offers perfect conditions for swimming, sailing, water skiing or jet skiing and, with a small collection of shops, it the perfect stopping point to grab a memento of your New Zealand vacation.
Hahei Beach: Gateway to paradise
One of the closest beaches to Whitianga is Hahei Beach, another of New Zealand’s best beaches and the gateway to both the striking Cathedral Cove and iconic Hot Water Beach.
With its long expanses of pink coloured sand and inviting blue waters, there is so much to do and explore at Hahei Beach you are seriously spoilt for choice. The Mercury Bay area of the Coromandel offers world-renowned scuba diving and snorkelling where you can explore the bountiful marine wildlife beneath the surface.
A more relaxing way to enjoy some of the more untouched bays is via a scenic cruise where you can learn more about the natural history of this stunning area of New Zealand.
Off the water Hahei Beach is the perfect spot to hire a scooter or bike and ride the afternoon away exploring the sights, sounds and smells of natural New Zealand. Another option is to visit one of the local artisan galleries or enjoy a New Zealand sensation of fresh fish and chips while watching the action unfold on the water in front of you.
Visit Whitianga with MoaTrek
MoaTrek offer perfectly crafted small tours of New Zealand and a visit to Whitianga, and its many surrounding beaches, are included in many of our tours. With 18 people or less, MoaTrek’s small tours allow travellers to enjoy an intimate experience of New Zealand’s best beaches in the company of like-minded people.
Find out more about a small group tour with MoaTrek here or contact us now – we would love to hear from you!
