Whangamata is a popular summer beach destination composed of white sand beaches and lagoons, whose views could rival any seafront destination worldwide. With an abundance of baches along the seafront, holidaymakers descend in their thousands during the summer season to use the sea and surf on offer. But Whangamata is much more than a beach resort – with waterfalls, forests, and hidden islands, there’s something on offer for everyone.
1. Whangamata Beach
Whangamata Beach offers a long expanse of white sand bordered by dunes and grassy knolls. To the north, you will find the wharf with turquoise blue waters and a jumping platform. At the south end is an estuary where rapid waters race to meet the sea. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing cruise atop a paddleboard. As you stand on the shores of the main beach, you’ll see two islands. Clark Island is the larger of the two and is an easy sea walk during low tide. Donut Island / Whenuakura is farther out and can only be reached by kayak. This island is a hollow paradise filled with untouched sands, boulders and plant life. You can hire a kayak for as little as $30 per person to take you to the island’s far side, where a narrow cave transports you to this inner sanctuary. Landing on the island is not permitted, but as you bob up and down on the gentle waves, you’ll feel like you’re in a tropical paradise.
2. Opoutere
If you’re looking for somewhere a little more off the beaten track, take a 15-minute drive and discover things to do in Opoutere. Stop off at Onemana beach for a change in landscape and thrashing waves. This spot offers a different experience for visitors and has toilets and a children’s playground close by. Continue to Opoutere beach for fantastic surfing opportunities and this long spanning coastline.
3. Walks
There are several free things to do in Whangamata, including a set of impressive hikes. The Wentworth Valley walk is a two-hour return trip that takes you to an impressive double waterfall, with a total height of around 50 metres. During this walk, you’ll also have the chance to see relics from the area’s gold mining days. If this piques your interest, check out the Luck at Last Mine Walk, a scenic two-hour track that takes you through the heart of an old gold mining settlement. On the walk, you’ll be accompanied by a gently flowing stream that offers boulder crossings, a small waterfall and even a swimming hole for those who are feeling adventurous.
Broken Hills is another excellent option for a hike, offering a variety of tracks to suit all abilities. Here, you will find valleys, tunnels and hidden swimming holes. As you walk through a grassy valley, you’ll come across a set of small caves to peek inside. One of these has an old skeleton wearing a pair of sunglasses that kids will love to look at.
4. Restaurants
In the town centre, you’ll find an array of surf and bohemian style shops and a range of bars and eateries. In terms of Whangamata restaurants, there aren’t many options for fine dining, but there are plenty of places to pick up a delicious dinner. The Smoky Palette is part of The Good George chain and offers a variety of meals. When visiting Whangamata, the food you’ll really want to experience is a local portion of fish and chips. The Estuary fish and chip store is the most popular in the area and offers fresh fish of the day. But, be mindful if you visit in peak season, you’ll want to call this store at least two hours ahead of time as they get swamped during the holidays.
5. Karangahake Gorge
If you fancy day trips from Whangamata, the Karanghake Gorge is one of the most scenic spots of the area, only 40 minutes away from the beach. The historic walkway is a 45-minute walk that allows you to soak up some beautiful views as you wind around the paths of the valley. On this track, you will find an abandoned 1km rail tunnel that is exciting and eerie in equal measures. Ten minutes from the Gorge, you’ll find another Department of Conservation (DOC) site. Though far less popular than the Karangahake, Dickey Flat offers an impressive range of views and activities. While you’re here, you’ll want to check out the waterfall track. This 20-minute walk leads you into the bush, across several swing bridges to a natural tunnel. The tunnel is about 100m long and does have a couple of inches of water flowing through the bottom. Walking this tunnel guarantees wet feet, but you’ll be rewarded with the sight of glowworms adorning the ceilings, and, on the other side, a set of small waterfalls welcome you in for a swim.
6. Waihi and Paeroa
Other day trips from Whangamata include Waihi, which offers a gold mining tour through a still operational open-pit mine. And Paeroa, where you’ll find an array of antique stores. Paeroa also provides a variety of great selfie opportunities. For fans of the British sitcom Open All Hours, you can capture the perfect Instagram shot standing outside Arkwright’s store or sitting atop Granville’s old bike. And for some classic kiwiana, grab a photo with the seven-metre-tall L&P bottle.
