Best boat tours in Whitianga
Discover the best scenic boat tours to Cathedral Cove, Orua Sea Cave and more,…
Things to Do
This is a guide for enjoying your holiday in Whitianga. Visit iconic locations like Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach, and The Lost Spring. Discover local favourites, scenic tours, secret beaches, nature walks and restaurants.
We’ve rounded up the info you need to make the most of your time on the Coromandel Peninsula.
Popular destinations
Cathedral Cove
Destination
Mautohe Cathedral Cove is a must-visit. Its massive natural rock arch has been marvelled for centuries, along with ...
striking white cliffs, golden sand and turquoise waters. The surrounding waters are a protected marine reserve where you can observe teeming marine life. It’s the ultimate spot for sightseeing, kayaking, and snorkelling.
Hot Water Beach
Destination
Te Puia Hot Water Beach is famous for its natural geothermal springs and pumping surf. Two hours either side of low tide ...
you can dig your own personal hot pool in the sand and relax in bubbling warm water. The beach has strong surf and powerful undertows, so make sure to swim between the flags in the lifeguard-patrolled zone.
The Lost Spring
Geothermal Spa
The Lost Spring is a wellness destination renowned for its 16,000-year-old geothermal mineral waters...
Set within lush foliage, soak in the therapeutic mineral pools with temperatures between 32°C and 41°C, enjoy poolside service or restaurant dining. Book a rejuvenating treatment in the Treetop Day Spa.
New Chum Beach
Destination
Wainuiototo New Chum Beach is one of Coromandel's most untouched beaches...
Only accessible via boat or a 30-40 minute walk over rocks and through native bush, this slice of paradise rewards you with a breathtaking crescent of golden sand, native pōhutukawa, birdsong and pristine, crystal-clear water.
Driving Creek Coromandel
Attraction
Take a ride on NZ's most unique railway tour and Coromandel's most loved attractions...
soar on a zipline, explore the pottery studios, buy handcrafted pieces or try your hand at wheel-throwing pottery yourself! Created by the late Barry Brickell, a legendary New Zealand potter, engineer, and conservationist, Driving Creek continues to grow as his legacy lives on. Coromandel Town is ~50 minute drive from Whitianga.
Cathedral Cove
Destination
Mautohe Cathedral Cove is a must-visit. Its massive natural rock arch has been marvelled for centuries, along with ...
striking white cliffs, golden sand and turquoise waters. The surrounding waters are a protected marine reserve where you can observe teeming marine life. It’s the ultimate spot for sightseeing, kayaking, and snorkelling.
Hot Water Beach
Destination
Te Puia Hot Water Beach is famous for its natural geothermal springs and pumping surf. Two hours either side of low tide ...
you can dig your own personal hot pool in the sand and relax in bubbling warm water. The beach has strong surf and powerful undertows, so make sure to swim between the flags in the lifeguard-patrolled zone.
The Lost Spring
Geothermal Spa
The Lost Spring is a wellness destination renowned for its 16,000-year-old geothermal mineral waters...
Set within lush foliage, soak in the therapeutic mineral pools with temperatures between 32°C and 41°C, enjoy poolside service or restaurant dining. Book a rejuvenating treatment in the Treetop Day Spa.
New Chum Beach
Destination
Wainuiototo New Chum Beach is one of Coromandel's most untouched beaches...
Only accessible via boat or a 30-40 minute walk over rocks and through native bush, this slice of paradise rewards you with a breathtaking crescent of golden sand, native pōhutukawa, birdsong and pristine, crystal-clear water.
Driving Creek Coromandel
Attraction
Take a ride on NZ's most unique railway tour and Coromandel's most loved attractions...
soar on a zipline, explore the pottery studios, buy handcrafted pieces or try your hand at wheel-throwing pottery yourself! Created by the late Barry Brickell, a legendary New Zealand potter, engineer, and conservationist, Driving Creek continues to grow as his legacy lives on. Coromandel Town is ~50 minute drive from Whitianga.
Boat tours
Hahei Explorer
Boat tour
Take an exciting 1-hour express tour of reefs, blowholes, Orua Sea Caves and Cathedral Cove...
The Hahei Explorer departs right from the south end of Hahei Beach, so you spend less time travelling to the sights and and more time exploring them!
Glass Bottom Boat
Boat tour
A 2-hour tour perfect for families! Experience Cathedral Cove and the Te Whanganui-o-Hei marine reserve...
and observe teeming marine life through large glass floor panels. They also offer a swim and snorkel stop if you want to take a dip! Departs from Whitianga Wharf.
Windborne Charters
Sailing charter
Windborne is a stunning 1928 wooden schooner that offers a slow-paced, authentic sailing experience...
Help hoist the sails or relax on the timber decks. Walk the plank and dive into turquoise waters. Day trips and sunset cruises available.
Cathedral Cove Kayak Tours
Kayak tour
If you want to earn your morning tea, this 3-hour (return) guided paddle to Cathedral Cove is world-class...
Departing from Hahei Beach, you’ll explore the coastline at a slower pace, gliding through rock gardens and sea caves before landing on the sand at Cathedral Cove for a coffee or hot chocolate on the beach. No experience is needed, suitable adults and kids, for but the morning departure is recommended for the calmest waters.
Cathedral Cove Dive & Snorkel
Dive trips
See it from the sea! Explore the underwater world of the Te Whanganui-o-Hei marine reserve...
and Cathedral Cove via snorkel, beginner and advanced scuba trips, or professional PADI training. All trips are complete with top-tier gear, friendly divemasters, and warm wetsuits.
Hahei Explorer
Boat tour
Take an exciting 1-hour express tour of reefs, blowholes, Orua Sea Caves and Cathedral Cove...
The Hahei Explorer departs right from the south end of Hahei Beach, so you spend less time travelling to the sights and and more time exploring them!
Glass Bottom Boat
Boat tour
A 2-hour tour perfect for families! Experience Cathedral Cove and the Te Whanganui-o-Hei marine reserve...
and observe teeming marine life through large glass floor panels. They also offer a swim and snorkel stop if you want to take a dip! Departs from Whitianga Wharf.
Windborne Charters
Sailing charter
Windborne is a stunning 1928 wooden schooner that offers a slow-paced, authentic sailing experience...
Help hoist the sails or relax on the timber decks. Walk the plank and dive into turquoise waters. Day trips and sunset cruises available.
Cathedral Cove Kayak Tours
Kayak tour
If you want to earn your morning tea, this 3-hour (return) guided paddle to Cathedral Cove is world-class...
Departing from Hahei Beach, you’ll explore the coastline at a slower pace, gliding through rock gardens and sea caves before landing on the sand at Cathedral Cove for a coffee or hot chocolate on the beach. No experience is needed, suitable adults and kids, for but the morning departure is recommended for the calmest waters.
Cathedral Cove Dive & Snorkel
Dive trips
See it from the sea! Explore the underwater world of the Te Whanganui-o-Hei marine reserve...
and Cathedral Cove via snorkel, beginner and advanced scuba trips, or professional PADI training. All trips are complete with top-tier gear, friendly divemasters, and warm wetsuits.
Experiences
Driving Creek Coromandel
Attraction
Driving Creek is one of Coromandel's most loved attractions. Take a ride on NZ's most unique railway tour...
explore the pottery studios, buy handcrafted pieces or try your hand at wheel-throwing pottery yourself! Created by the late Barry Brickell, a legendary New Zealand potter, engineer, and conservationist, Driving Creek continues to grow as his legacy lives on. Coromandel Town is ~50 minute drive from Whitianga.
Cathedral Cove Macadamias
Destination
Visit Cathedral Cove Macadamias, an organic, family-run orchard on Lees Road near Hahei.
Visitors can take a stroll through the orchard grounds, enjoy views over the bay, and drop into the orchard shop to sample or purchase generous tastings of small-batch products—including cold-pressed macadamia oils, dukkah, crumb mixes, honey, and chocolate-coated nuts.
Mercury Bay Estate
Winery
Mercury Bay Estate is a family-owned winery and restaurant in Cook's Beach.
Set on a hilltop along Purangi Road overlooking the vines and the wider Mercury Bay. Enjoy the estate-grown wines paired with an Italian-inspired lunch menu.
You can reach the winery by driving to Cook's Beach, or taking the passenger ferry from Whitianga + walk/bike/taxi from Ferry Landing.
The Lost Spring
Geothermal Spa
The Lost Spring is a wellness destination renowned for its 16,000-year-old geothermal mineral waters...
Set within lush foliage, soak in the therapeutic mineral pools with temperatures between 32°C and 41°C, enjoy poolside service or restaurant dining. Book a rejuvenating treatment in the Treetop Day Spa.
Coromandel Zipline Tours
Destination
Soar through the Coromandel forest! Based at Driving Creek in Coromandel town.
The adventure begins with a scenic railway ride through regenerating forest, followed by eight thrilling ziplines through the canopy. Along the way, discover how this once-logged landscape has been transformed into a thriving hand-planted forest, home to regenerating kauri and kiwi.
Driving Creek Coromandel
Attraction
Driving Creek is one of Coromandel's most loved attractions. Take a ride on NZ's most unique railway tour...
explore the pottery studios, buy handcrafted pieces or try your hand at wheel-throwing pottery yourself! Created by the late Barry Brickell, a legendary New Zealand potter, engineer, and conservationist, Driving Creek continues to grow as his legacy lives on. Coromandel Town is ~50 minute drive from Whitianga.
Cathedral Cove Macadamias
Destination
Visit Cathedral Cove Macadamias, an organic, family-run orchard on Lees Road near Hahei.
Visitors can take a stroll through the orchard grounds, enjoy views over the bay, and drop into the orchard shop to sample or purchase generous tastings of small-batch products—including cold-pressed macadamia oils, dukkah, crumb mixes, honey, and chocolate-coated nuts.
Mercury Bay Estate
Winery
Mercury Bay Estate is a family-owned winery and restaurant in Cook's Beach.
Set on a hilltop along Purangi Road overlooking the vines and the wider Mercury Bay. Enjoy the estate-grown wines paired with an Italian-inspired lunch menu.
You can reach the winery by driving to Cook's Beach, or taking the passenger ferry from Whitianga + walk/bike/taxi from Ferry Landing.
The Lost Spring
Geothermal Spa
The Lost Spring is a wellness destination renowned for its 16,000-year-old geothermal mineral waters...
Set within lush foliage, soak in the therapeutic mineral pools with temperatures between 32°C and 41°C, enjoy poolside service or restaurant dining. Book a rejuvenating treatment in the Treetop Day Spa.
Coromandel Zipline Tours
Destination
Soar through the Coromandel forest! Based at Driving Creek in Coromandel town.
The adventure begins with a scenic railway ride through regenerating forest, followed by eight thrilling ziplines through the canopy. Along the way, discover how this once-logged landscape has been transformed into a thriving hand-planted forest, home to regenerating kauri and kiwi.
Our favourites
Otama Beach
Beach
Otama Beach is one of our favourite beaches in the Coromandel. Drive down the Blackjack Road...
to beautiful white sand, turquoise water and views to Great Mercury Island. Pack a picnic and make a day of it! Otama is a 30 minute drive from Whitianga, and just 8 minutes from Kuaotunu. It is fantastic swimming in the summer months, and the length of the beach offers great seashell and sea glass hunting! The far end of Otama has a rope swing and lagoon which is great for families with young kids. Drive 10 mins further to Opito Bay for another stunning beach.
Northern Coromandel
Destination
The top of the peninsula, northern Coromandel is remote, rugged and beautiful.
If you're up for driving on winding gravel roads, there's so much to explore. Drive north of Coromandel Town to fabulously isolated beaches, including Fantail Bay, Port Jackson, Fletchers Bay, Stony Bay, Sandy Bay, Port Charles, Waikawau Bay, Little Bay and Tuteawa.
Shakespeare's Cliff Lookout
Destination
A great short hike to Shakespeare's Lookout with panoramic views across the entire Mercury Bay.
Take the ferry from Whitianga to Ferry Landing, then walk to Shakespeare's Cliff Lookout via the cliff path in Flaxmill Bay.
Whangapoua
Beach
Whangapoua is a small beach village with a long sandy beach, rolling surf and stunning islands.
It is the starting point for the popular New Chum Beach walk. Enjoy a day at the beach, grab an ice cream from the Whangapoua Store, head to New Chum Beach or explore Opera Point Historic Reserve.
Otama Beach
Beach
Otama Beach is one of our favourite beaches in the Coromandel. Drive down the Blackjack Road...
to beautiful white sand, turquoise water and views to Great Mercury Island. Pack a picnic and make a day of it! Otama is a 30 minute drive from Whitianga, and just 8 minutes from Kuaotunu. It is fantastic swimming in the summer months, and the length of the beach offers great seashell and sea glass hunting! The far end of Otama has a rope swing and lagoon which is great for families with young kids. Drive 10 mins further to Opito Bay for another stunning beach.
Northern Coromandel
Destination
The top of the peninsula, northern Coromandel is remote, rugged and beautiful.
If you're up for driving on winding gravel roads, there's so much to explore. Drive north of Coromandel Town to fabulously isolated beaches, including Fantail Bay, Port Jackson, Fletchers Bay, Stony Bay, Sandy Bay, Port Charles, Waikawau Bay, Little Bay and Tuteawa.
Shakespeare's Cliff Lookout
Destination
A hike to a fantastic vantage point with panoramic views across the entire Mercury Bay.
Take the ferry from Whitianga to Ferry Landing, then walk to Shakespeare's Cliff Lookout via the cliff path in Flaxmill Bay.
Whangapoua
Beach
Whangapoua is a small beach village with a long sandy beach, rolling surf and stunning islands.
It is the starting point for the popular New Chum Beach walk. Enjoy a day at the beach, grab an ice cream from the Whangapoua Store, head to New Chum Beach or explore Opera Point Historic Reserve.
Food & Drink
Blue Ginger
Restaurant
Blue Ginger is an iconic Whitianga eatery, bringing together Polynesian, Asian, Thai, and Vietnamese flavours with fresh, delicious dishes straight off the wok.
The setting is cosy, with lights, lantern and colourful art. Dishes include hand rolled dumplings, wontons, stir-fries, curries, salads and more. Dine in and takeaway available.
The Eggsentric
Cafe
The Eggsentric is based in Flaxmill Bay. Since 1998 they have been serving delicious food made with local ingredients, and great coffee.
You can get to The Eggsentric by taking the ferry from Whitianga wharf to Ferry Landing. From here, it's a 15 minute walk to Flaxmill Bay, with stunning views of Shakespeare's Cliff and the bay. Alternatively, the drive around is ~40 minutes.
Find on Google Maps
Coromandel Oyster Company
Seafood shop
The Coromandel Oyster Company is a must-visit stop, serving fresh seafood on State Highway 25 just south of Coromandel Town.
The shop sells raw, locally harvested Pacific oysters alongside a hot menu of freshly shucked oysters, mussels, paua fritters, famous mussel chowder, and fish and chips. Visitors can grab takeaway or eat outdoors in the casual garden area, seated on repurposed old oyster barges overlooking the bay.You can pull up, order from a shop menu of freshly shucked Pacific oysters, mussels, paua fritters, famous mussel chowder, and battered fish and chips, and enjoy their meal outdoors in the casual garden area—often seated on repurposed old oyster barges overlooking the sea and nearby farms.
Luke's Kitchen
Restaurant
Based in Kuaotunu, Luke's Kitchen is an iconic rustic beach eatery, known for its wood fired pizza, fresh ingredients, local brews and laid-back vibes.
This is the perfect spot to catch a sunset, eat local seafood and enjoy the Coromandel vibe.
Hula
Cafe
Just steps from the beach in Whitianga, Hula is known for its delicious coffee, homemade chai and relaxed vibe.
Dine-in cafe menu on from mid-morning. Grab and go cabinet options available.
Marina Bay
Restaurant
Marina Bay offers a sharing menu of small dishes, designed to bring people together to connect and enjoy food.
Marina Bay is fully-licensed. They serve fresh local seafood made with love. Reservations recommended.
Snapper Jacks
Fish & chips
Snapper Jacks is Whitianga's spot for Kiwi fish and chips! They serve a range of seafood, burgers and rolled ice cream.
Snapper Jacks will also cook your own caught fish fillets!
Stoked Public House
Restaurant / Bar
Located on the Esplanade in Whitianga, Stoked is a great spot to grab a drink and a bite to eat while looking over Buffalo Beach.
Stoked also offer relaxed family dining, with pizzas, burgers, seafood and small bites on the menu.
Clove Indian Eatery
Restaurant
Located on the Blacksmith Lane in Whitianga, Clove is an Indian Eatery with delicious food and a great atmosphere.
Clove offer traditional Indian cuisine, and cook their breads and meat with a charcoal oven. Dine in or takeaway available.
Blue Ginger
Restaurant
Blue Ginger is an iconic Whitianga eatery, bringing together Polynesian, Asian, Thai, and Vietnamese flavours with fresh, delicious dishes straight off the wok.
The setting is cosy, with lights, lantern and colourful art. Dishes include hand rolled dumplings, wontons, stir-fries, curries, salads and more. Dine in and takeaway available.
The Eggsentric
Cafe
The Eggsentric is based in Flaxmill Bay. Since 1998 they have been serving delicious food made with local ingredients, and great coffee.
You can get to The Eggsentric by taking the ferry from Whitianga wharf to Ferry Landing. From here, it's a 15 minute walk to Flaxmill Bay, with stunning views of Shakespeare's Cliff and the bay. Alternatively, the drive around is ~40 minutes.
Find on Google Maps
Coromandel Oyster Company
Seafood shop
The Coromandel Oyster Company is a must-visit stop, serving fresh seafood on State Highway 25 just south of Coromandel Town.
The shop sells raw, locally harvested Pacific oysters alongside a hot menu of freshly shucked oysters, mussels, paua fritters, famous mussel chowder, and fish and chips. Visitors can grab takeaway or eat outdoors in the casual garden area, seated on repurposed old oyster barges overlooking the bay.You can pull up, order from a shop menu of freshly shucked Pacific oysters, mussels, paua fritters, famous mussel chowder, and battered fish and chips, and enjoy their meal outdoors in the casual garden area—often seated on repurposed old oyster barges overlooking the sea and nearby farms.
Luke's Kitchen
Restaurant
Based in Kuaotunu, Luke's Kitchen is an iconic rustic beach eatery, known for its wood fired pizza, fresh ingredients, local brews and laid-back vibes.
This is the perfect spot to catch a sunset, eat local seafood and enjoy the Coromandel vibe.
Hula
Cafe
Just steps from the beach in Whitianga, Hula is known for its delicious coffee, homemade chai and relaxed vibe.
Dine-in cafe menu on from mid-morning. Grab and go cabinet options available.
Marina Bay
Restaurant
Marina Bay offers a sharing menu of small dishes, designed to bring people together to connect and enjoy food.
Marina Bay is fully-licensed. They serve fresh local seafood made with love. Reservations recommended.
Snapper Jacks
Fish & chips
Snapper Jacks is Whitianga's spot for Kiwi fish and chips! They serve a range of seafood, burgers and rolled ice cream.
Snapper Jacks will also cook your own caught fish fillets!
Stoked Public House
Restaurant / Bar
Located on the Esplanade in Whitianga, Stoked is a great spot to grab a drink and a bite to eat while looking over Buffalo Beach.
Stoked also offer relaxed family dining, with pizzas, burgers, seafood and small bites on the menu.
Clove Indian Eatery
Restaurant
Located on the Blacksmith Lane in Whitianga, Clove is an Indian Eatery with delicious food and a great atmosphere.
Clove offer traditional Indian cuisine, and cook their breads and meat with a charcoal oven. Dine in or takeaway available.
Buffalo Beach Club
Bar
Based on the Esplanade, Buffalo Beach Club offers a relaxed bar experience overlooking the bay. Grab a drink and soak in the sun.
The Buffalo Beach Club also offers live music weekly, seafood, and Texas Pete's BBQ.
Grace O'Malleys
Irish Pub
Grace O'Malleys is Whitianga's Irish Pub, with views over the harbour and a range of beers on a tap - including Guinness!
Grace O'Malleys also offers an extensive dinner menu with options for the kids, light meals, large meals and desserts.
The Whitianga Hotel
Pub
The Whitianga Hotel is a popular, historic spot located on Blacksmith Lane. Enjoy beers on tap, sports on TV and the sunny garden bar.
The Whitianga Hotel also offers a pub dinner menu. In summer they often have live music and events in the garden bar.
Monkey House
Venue
The Monkey House Lounge & Cabaret is Whitianga's home to live performances!
From live music, dance parties to comedy and cabaret. Monkey House Lounge & Cabaret on Coghill Street is for all things performance. Check their website for a calendar of events!
Smitty's Sports Bar & Grill
Pub
Smitty's is a laid-back sports bar on Albert Street, Whitianga. Watch live sports and enjoy a pint.
Smitty's offer an extensive menu available for dine in or takeaway. They often run daily specials, karaoke nights and live events.
Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club
Club
One of NZ's oldest game fishing clubs, open to members and visitors.
Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club is a great place to catch up in a relaxed setting. Their bar and kitchen are open to members and visitors, serving classic favourites, fresh seafood, and family-friendly meals.
Buffalo Beach Club
Bar
Based on the Esplanade, Buffalo Beach Club offers a relaxed bar experience overlooking the bay. Grab a drink and soak in the sun.
The Buffalo Beach Club also offers live music weekly, seafood, and Texas Pete's BBQ.
Grace O'Malleys
Irish Pub
Grace O'Malleys is Whitianga's Irish Pub, with views over the harbour and a range of beers on a tap - including Guinness!
Grace O'Malleys also offers an extensive dinner menu with options for the kids, light meals, large meals and desserts.
The Whitianga Hotel
Pub
The Whitianga Hotel is a popular, historic spot located on Blacksmith Lane. Enjoy beers on tap, sports on TV and the sunny garden bar.
The Whitianga Hotel also offers a pub dinner menu. In summer they often have live music and events in the garden bar.
Monkey House
Venue
The Monkey House Lounge & Cabaret is Whitianga's home to live performances!
From live music, dance parties to comedy and cabaret. Monkey House Lounge & Cabaret on Coghill Street is for all things performance. Check their website for a calendar of events!
Smitty's Sports Bar & Grill
Pub
Smitty's is a laid-back sports bar on Albert Street, Whitianga. Watch live sports and enjoy a pint.
Smitty's offer an extensive menu available for dine in or takeaway. They often run daily specials, karaoke nights and live events.
Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club
Club
One of NZ's oldest game fishing clubs, open to members and visitors.
Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club is a great place to catch up in a relaxed setting. Their bar and kitchen are open to members and visitors, serving classic favourites, fresh seafood, and family-friendly meals.
Fishing Charters
Churchys Charters
Fishing charter
Known for fantastic fishing charters, chasing Yellowtail Kingfish, Snapper, Hāpuku and more. Book Churchys if you want to hook on to your fish of a lifetime!
Churchys accommodate up to 5 people for their full day charter, starting at 6:45am at Whitianga Wharf, returning at 4pm.
Epic Adventures
Fishing charter
If you’re after legendary Yellowtail Kingfish, these are the guys to call. They have a reputation for putting guests on the big fish.
Epic offer a full day on the water meeting at the Main Wharf on The Esplanade in Whitianga, at 6.30am and departing at 7am. They return at around 3.30pm.
Coro Cowboy Fishing Charters
Fishing charter
Coromandel Town's #1 fishing charter! Specialising in snapper, Coro Cowboys offer trips around the region's productive mussel farms.
Coro Cowboy offers half-day, full-day, and custom trips for all experience levels - from seasoned anglers to first-timers just looking to enjoy a day on the sea. Departs from Hannaford's Wharf, Coromandel Town. You can expect snapper, kahawai, trevally, john dory, and kingfish.
Mussel Barge Snapper Safaris
Fishing charter
Since 1997, Mussel Barge Snapper Safaris has been the go-to for Coromandel fishing adventures. Book for an unforgettable day on the water!
Mussel Barge Snapper Safaris are known for hooking you on to the snapper! Departing from Coromandel Town, they offer half and full day trips.
Arataki Dive
Dive charter
Arataki Dive offer bespoke private ocean experiences with spectacular free-diving, spearfishing, scenic and fishing.
Whether you’re looking to explore reefs, build confidence in the water, or gather fresh kaimoana (seafood), Arataki shapes your experience around your pace, your comfort, and what you want to get out of your time on the ocean.
Churchys Charters
Fishing charter
Known for fantastic fishing charters, chasing Yellowtail Kingfish, Snapper, Hāpuku and more. Book Churchys if you want to hook on to your fish of a lifetime!
Churchys accommodate up to 5 people for their full day charter, starting at 6:45am at Whitianga Wharf, returning at 4pm.
Epic Adventures
Fishing charter
If you’re after legendary Yellowtail Kingfish, these are the guys to call. They have a reputation for putting guests on the big fish.
Epic offer a full day on the water meeting at the Main Wharf on The Esplanade in Whitianga, at 6.30am and departing at 7am. They return at around 3.30pm.
Coro Cowboy Fishing Charters
Fishing charter
Coromandel Town's #1 fishing charter! Specialising in snapper, Coro Cowboys offer trips around the region's productive mussel farms.
Coro Cowboy offers half-day, full-day, and custom trips for all experience levels - from seasoned anglers to first-timers just looking to enjoy a day on the sea. Departs from Hannaford's Wharf, Coromandel Town. You can expect snapper, kahawai, trevally, john dory, and kingfish.
Mussel Barge Snapper Safaris
Fishing charter
Since 1997, Mussel Barge Snapper Safaris has been the go-to for Coromandel fishing adventures.
Mussel Barge Snapper Safaris are known for hooking you on to the snapper! Departing from Coromandel Town, they offer half and full day trips. Book for an unforgettable day on the water!
Arataki Dive
Dive charter
Arataki Dive offer bespoke private ocean experiences with spectacular free-diving, spearfishing, scenic and fishing.
Whether you’re looking to explore reefs, build confidence in the water, or gather fresh kaimoana (seafood), Arataki shapes your experience around your pace, your comfort, and what you want to get out of your time on the ocean.
Kids & Family
Esplanade Playground
Playground
The Whitianga Esplanade Playground is a fun nautical themed playspace located right on the waterfront next to the Whitianga wharf.
It’s an ideal spot for families to break up the day, with a big wooden play ship, water play section, and packed with slides, swings, and climbing nets. A smooth scooter track loops around the playground, while shaded park benches and grassy lawns give parents a front-row seat to the harbour. Best of all, it's just steps away from ice cream shops, cafés, restaurants and the ferry departure.
Ice cream at Kūaotunu
Restaurant / Bar
The Kūaotunu Store is famous for serving up some of the biggest and best rolled ice creams in New Zealand.
For a fun day out, head over the hill to Kūaotunu, and top at the store for a classic kiwi rolled ice cream. If you're feeling hungry and brave, you can attempt their 9-scoop Kūaotunu killer! Located just across from the beach on Blackjack Road, a 20-minute drive from Whitianga.
Whiti Farm Park
Animal Park
Whiti Farm Park is a quirky, family-friendly animal park and attraction. located just 15 minutes south of Whitianga.
Meet, hand-feed, cuddle and interact with over 40 species of friendly farmyard and exotic animals, birds and reptiles. Farm machinery, a train, a fire engine and old fashioned games are dotted around the park to inspire, intrigue and educate. Spend the day meandering through eight acres of mature park surroundings and a native bush.
Mercury Twin Cinemas
Movie Theatre
Mercury Twin Cinemas is a wonderful family-run movie theatre screening the newest mainstream and independent films in Whitianga.
Based on Lee Street in Whitianga, with Dolby Stereo sound, air conditioning and comfortable seating. There's a movie for everyone, plus a fantastic treat and candy bar, fresh popcorn (+ beer and wine for the parents!).
Whitianga Bike Park
Bike Park
Whitianga Bike Park is great for an active family day out, with trails for all skills and bikes available.
The park offers trails for all skill levels - dedicated kiddies trail, exciting pump track, jumps, mountain biking trails, alongside play areas and enjoyable walking trails.
It also has picnic and BBQ facilities (just bring your own gas bottle!). While the bike park is free, donations are strongly encouraged to contribute to its ongoing maintenance. Bring your own bike or use one of the many complimentary bikes available on-site.
The Banana Boat
Water Activity
The Banana Boat is an iconic Whitianga summer activity. With rides for all ages, it's a family fun day on the water.
Based right on Buffalo Beach along the Esplanade during summer, rides include kiddie cruise, thrill seekers, or for the brave - the Hellbender! They also operate scenic cruises to Cathedral Cove.
Esplanade Playground
Playground
The Whitianga Esplanade Playground is a fun nautical themed playspace located right on the waterfront next to the Whitianga wharf.
It’s an ideal spot for families to break up the day, with a big wooden play ship, water play section, and packed with slides, swings, and climbing nets. A smooth scooter track loops around the playground, while shaded park benches and grassy lawns give parents a front-row seat to the harbour. Best of all, it's just steps away from ice cream shops, cafés, restaurants and the ferry departure.
Ice cream at Kūaotunu
Restaurant / Bar
The Kūaotunu Store is famous for serving up some of the biggest and best rolled ice creams in New Zealand.
For a fun day out, head over the hill to Kūaotunu, and top at the store for a classic kiwi rolled ice cream. If you're feeling hungry and brave, you can attempt their 9-scoop Kūaotunu killer! Located just across from the beach on Blackjack Road, a 20-minute drive from Whitianga.
Whiti Farm Park
Animal Park
Whiti Farm Park is a quirky, family-friendly animal park and attraction. located just 15 minutes south of Whitianga.
Meet, hand-feed, cuddle and interact with over 40 species of friendly farmyard and exotic animals, birds and reptiles. Farm machinery, a train, a fire engine and old fashioned games are dotted around the park to inspire, intrigue and educate. Spend the day meandering through eight acres of mature park surroundings and a native bush.
Mercury Twin Cinemas
Movie Theatre
Mercury Twin Cinemas is a wonderful family-run movie theatre screening the newest mainstream and independent films in Whitianga.
Based on Lee Street in Whitianga, with Dolby Stereo sound, air conditioning and comfortable seating. There's a movie for everyone, plus a fantastic treat and candy bar, fresh popcorn (+ beer and wine for the parents!).
Whitianga Bike Park
Bike Park
Whitianga Bike Park is great for an active family day out, with trails for all skills and bikes available.
The park offers trails for all skill levels - dedicated kiddies trail, exciting pump track, jumps, mountain biking trails, alongside play areas and enjoyable walking trails.
It also has picnic and BBQ facilities (just bring your own gas bottle!). While the bike park is free, donations are strongly encouraged to contribute to its ongoing maintenance. Bring your own bike or use one of the many complimentary bikes available on-site.
The Banana Boat
Water Activity
The Banana Boat is an iconic Whitianga summer activity. With rides for all ages, it's a family fun day on the water.
Based right on Buffalo Beach along the Esplanade during summer, rides include kiddie cruise, thrill seekers, or for the brave - the Hellbender! They also operate scenic cruises to Cathedral Cove.
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