Things to do in Whitianga

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Coromandel Peninsula

Te Whanganui-A-Hei (Cathedral Cove) Marine Reserve

Hahei is a stunning beach, flanked by tall New Zealand Christmas trees, and the islands along the coast form natural breakwaters, so visitors can swim, boat and fish in the sea with confidence. The northward stretch of coastline and islands next to a marine reserve make it a popular spot for diving and kayaking. Numerous coral reefs, caves, arches and soft sediments provide ideal habitats for a variety of plants, fish, mollusks and crustaceans.

Cathedral Cove Beach

Cathedral Cove Beach is one of the most iconic coastal views on the Coromandel Peninsula. It is renowned for its spectacular natural rock arch and clear waters, with unique geological formations and a tranquil bay environment that combine to create a highly attractive natural landscape. Over time, wave erosion and geological changes have carved a massive arched passage into the coastal cliffs, resembling a natural vault, which is how it earned the name Cathedral Cove Beach. The area is surrounded by white sandy beaches, steep cliffs, and diverse coastal rock formations. Visitors can follow trails to enjoy the coastal scenery, or appreciate the unique terrain from the sea by boat or kayak. The bay's waters are clear and suitable for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities, allowing visitors to experience the rich local marine environment up close. With its unique rock structures, beautiful bay environment, and diverse outdoor experiences, Cathedral Cove Beach has become one of New Zealand's most popular natural attractions.

Hot Water Beach

Hot Springs Beach is located on the east coast of New Zealand's Coromandel Peninsula, east of Auckland. There is natural hot water on the beach, when the tide is high, there will be steam coming out of the sea near the shore, and when the tide is low, the hot water will be gushing out by digging holes in the sand. The scenery here is beautiful, the sea view, listening to the sea waves, and soaking in the hot spring are completely free, especially when you dig out the hot spring pool yourself to enjoy yourself, which is not only pleasant, but also endless fun.

Coromandel Peninsula

Cathedral Cove Kayak Tours

No. 1 of Hot Springs Attractions in Whitianga

The Lost Spring

The Lost Spring is a geothermal hot spring resort surrounded by native shrubs and tropical vegetation. The hot spring water here originates from deep underground, emerging to the surface after a natural cycle of tens of thousands of years, with temperatures ranging from the 30s to the low 40s °C, and is rich in natural minerals. Multiple hot spring pools are cleverly distributed throughout the park according to the terrain, connected by trickling streams and cascading waterfalls. One of the swim-in crystal caves is particularly special, where the sounds of birds and water intertwine while you soak, and ferns and tropical plants provide a canopy, creating an immersive atmosphere far from the hustle and bustle.

Hahei Beach

Tasman Holiday Parks - Hahei Beach

Whitianga Wharf

2026 Global 100 - Best Things to Do

Hobbiton™ Movie Set Tours

Join us and experience the real Middle-earth™ at the Hobbiton Movie Set, where, in the heart of the Waikato region, you can step into the lush pastures of the Shire™, as seen in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies.Fall in love with the Alexander family sheep farm, just as acclaimed director Sir Peter Jackson did, as you journey on a short bus ride through the unequivocal beauty of the land, with the mighty Kaimai Ranges towering in the distance. Your guide will escort you on a shared walking tour around the movie set, showcasing the intricate details, pointing out the most famous locations and explaining how movie magic was made here. △ Immerse yourself in the fairy tale town of The Hobbit △ Ejoy the fenced garden and the mirror lake △ Admire New Zealand's stunning scenery