Things to do in Wharekaho

Activities, attractions and tours


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Top places to visit

1. 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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Hahei Beach which includes a bay or harbour, a sunset and a beach

2. 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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Cathedral Cove Beach

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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Hot Water Beach showing landscape views, a beach and tropical scenes

4. 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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Cooks Beach

5. 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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Driving Creek Railway showing tranquil scenes and forests

What to do in Wharekaho


Frequently asked questions

Is Wharekaho worth visiting?
Whether you plan to enjoy the local charm and cultural attractions or try regional foods and venture into nature, there are many things to do in Wharekaho.
How do I spend a day in Wharekaho?
Buffalo Beach and New Chums Beach are two good places to begin your holiday adventures. Remember to explore the dining and shopping options in Wharekaho while you're here too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Wharekaho?
Buffalo Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Wharekaho and deserves a spot on every sightseeing itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Wharekaho?
Three days will be enough time to check out the leading city sights, such as Buffalo Beach, Purangi Estate-The Purangi Winery and Flaxmill Bay Beach. The average stay in Wharekaho is two days. If you feel the urge to extend your escape, Whitianga isn't far away.
Is Wharekaho a walkable city?
Some key attractions in Wharekaho, like Buffalo Beach and Flaxmill Bay Beach, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Only 3 kilometres from the city centre of Wharekaho is Ferry Landing and Simpsons Beach is 0.64 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Wharekaho with kids?
If you're searching for attractions and activities for all the family, here are some awesome ideas for what to do in Wharekaho with kids.

What to do in Wharekaho for adults?
Purangi Estate-The Purangi Winery and Captain Cook's Memorial are just two of the things to do in Wharekaho. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Wharekaho?
One of the simplest ways to find free things to do in Wharekaho is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on interesting neighbourhoods, parks and other highlights you can visit without opening your wallet. Buffalo Beach is one spot that doesn't have an admission fee.