Things to do in Whitianga

Activities, attractions and tours

A cave opening to a beach with a prominent rock formation and calm waters.
A sunset over a coastal landscape with prominent rock formations silhouetted against the sky.
A beach with a large rock formation and a small island in the distance.
A coastal landscape with grassy hills, a calm sea, and distant islands.
A coastal landscape with clear turquoise waters, a sandy beach, and a rocky cliff with dense greenery.

Things to do

Picture 4 for Activity Whitianga: 2-Hour Cathedral Cove and Volcanic Coast Cruise

Whitianga: 2-Hour Cathedral Cove and Volcanic Coast Cruise

S$105
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Whitianga: 2-Hour Cathedral Cove and Volcanic Coast Cruise
Cathedral Cove Kayak Tour

Cathedral Cove Kayak Tour

S$149
per adult
Cathedral Cove Kayak Tour
Sea Cave Adventures in the Coromandel

Sea Cave Adventures in the Coromandel

S$105
per adult
Sea Cave Adventures in the Coromandel
Sea Cave Adventures in Whitianga

Sea Cave Adventures in Whitianga

S$105
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Sea Cave Adventures in Whitianga
Cathedral Cove Day Trip from Auckland

Cathedral Cove Day Trip from Auckland

S$217
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Cathedral Cove Day Trip from Auckland
Cathedral Cove & Hot Water Beach with Lunch Tours

Cathedral Cove & Hot Water Beach with Lunch Tours

S$524
per adult
Cathedral Cove & Hot Water Beach with Lunch Tours
Cathedral Cove

Private Tour: Cathedral Cove, Zipline and Glass Bottom Boat

S$1,803
per adult
Private Tour: Cathedral Cove, Zipline and Glass Bottom Boat
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Top places to visit

1. Cathedral Cove

New Zealand is full of spectacular scenery, and the Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve in the Coromandel Peninsular is no exception. White rock cliffs, a large pumice island, and a naturally formed archway joining Cathedral Cove Beach to Mares Leg Cove give this beach a distinct look.
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A large rock formation by the sea with a beach and distant mountains.

2. Hahei Beach

Situated on the majestic Mercury Bay, the tiny settlement of Hahei Beach becomes a bustling tourist town in the summer months. Its 350 permanent residents will welcome you to their town, ready to show you their beautiful pink-shell beach, the protected marine reserve and the pods of dolphins that live off shore. Enjoy a round of golf, browse for souvenirs at local gift shops and enjoy a pint at a local craft brewery as you indulge in the offerings of the Coromandel Peninsula.
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A beach with a rocky cliff and calm water.

3. Hot Water Beach

Grab your bucket and spade and head to Hot Water Beach at low tide to find two natural warm water springs. Dig a pool and mix the hot water with just the right amount of seawater to create your perfect bath. Enjoy a relaxing stroll along this beautiful stretch of sand and find a quiet place to rest with a good book. Enjoy a meal in the oceanfront café and shop for souvenirs in the shops behind the beach.
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A sandy beach with rocky outcrops and clear blue water.

4. Driving Creek Railway

Take a journey on the Driving Creek Railway to zig-zag up a hill through the bushland on the Coromandel Peninsula in a fun and original way. This narrow gauge railway was originally built to supply wood and clay to the adjoining potteries, but it now mainly serves to take tourists on scenic rides.
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A train journey through a dense, lush green forest with a wooden bridge.

5. Cooks Beach

Relax on the white sands of Cooks Beach, hike over the headlands to the secluded Lonely Bay, cast a line or take a game fishing trip.
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A beach with clear turquoise water, a sandy shore, and a forested area with mountains in the background.

What to do in Whitianga

Stay near popular Whitianga attractions

Lost Spring Thermal Pools

9.0/10 (191 reviews)
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Lost Spring Thermal Pools during your travels in Whitianga. Wander through the beautiful beaches and seaside in this relaxing area.
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A beach with calm waves, a pink and blue sky, and rocky cliffs.

Cooks Beach

Frequently asked questions

Is Whitianga worth visiting?
From shopping to history and outdoor pursuits, there are loads of great things to do in Whitianga. Don't forget to enjoy the area's mix of unmissable attractions, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Whitianga?
Buffalo Beach and Matarangi Beach are two excellent places to begin your adventures. Remember to explore the shopping and dining options in Whitianga while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Whitianga?
You can't leave without visiting Buffalo Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Whitianga.
Is three days enough to stay in Whitianga?
You can easily enjoy leading attractions like Buffalo Beach, Purangi Estate-The Purangi Winery and Flaxmill Bay Beach with a three-day escape to Whitianga. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to explore nearby too, so stick around longer and venture to Hahei.
Is Whitianga a walkable city?
With popular neighbourhoods and leading attractions within walking distance of the city centre, Whitianga is a good place to discover on foot. Have fun wandering between Buffalo Beach and Flaxmill Bay Beach. Then take a stroll through Ferry Landing, located 2 kilometres from downtown, and Simpsons Beach, which is roughly 3 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Whitianga with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, an itinerary filled with cool activities makes all the difference. Take a look at our ideas for what to do in Whitianga with kids.
What to do in Whitianga for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food connoisseur or thrill seeker, there are plenty of things to do in Whitianga for adults including Purangi Estate-The Purangi Winery and Mercury Bay Estate.
Are there free things to do in Whitianga?
One of the easiest ways to discover free things to do in Whitianga is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on vibrant neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can visit without reaching into your pocket. Buffalo Beach is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.