Whangamata - North Island, New Zealand

Whangamata is one of the places on the Coromandel peninsula where the beach and bush go hand in hand. Located on the SH25, the coastal town of Whangamata is encircled by water on three sides and bush covered hills on the fourth.

Whangamata takes pride in its 4 km Ocean Beach which is the scene of hectic activity with holidaymakers converging here in droves in January. The beach extends from the mouth of Otahu River to the harbour entrance where there is a bar that provides a great surf break making it one of New Zealand's popular surfing destinations.

Whangamata Accommodation

The Visitor Centre at Whangamata is on Port Rd. Buses drop off visitors near the visitor centre. The Whangamata town offers limited accommodation choices. The peak season from Christmas to January creates accommodation scarcity and prices go up by more than 50 percent. There are a few lodges, a B&B (bed and breakfast), a resort and a campground.

Whangamata Activites

The Whangamata Surf Shop on Port Road is a haven for surfing gear. It is the only place that hires out surfboards and boogie boards as well as wetsuits and fins. At the edge of town, there is a pleasant walk to the Wentworth Falls situated in the Wentworth Valley. There is a nice lookout at the Wentworth Falls.

Another interesting activity is the eco-tours organised by Kiwi Dundee Adventures. Brainchild of the famous conservationist Doug Johansen, the company offers various eco-tours, the most popular of which is the full day Nature Experience and Coastal Highlights Trip.

It takes a small group of visitors into the bush and explains history, geology and Maori medicines. There is also a Wilderness Hike that takes you into a hidden valley of ancient rainforests.

Whangamata has its fair share of eating options with restaurants, cafes, takeaways and tearooms located mostly on Port Road.

LooknbookNZ can organise your Whangamata accommodation and Whangamata activities bookings and let you and your family/friends enjoy the surfing delights of Whangamata and the bush treks in the southern part of the Coromandel Peninsula.