23 Best & Fun Things To Do In Whitianga NZ (New Zealand)

If you are looking for the best things to do in Whitianga, New Zealand, you are in the right place. Whitianga is the ideal vacation spot for adventure, relaxation, and amazing views because of its gorgeous beaches, beautiful scenery, and dynamic culture.

Several entertaining activities in Whitianga will keep you entertained whether you’re traveling alone, with friends, or with family. Whitianga has a lot to offer everyone. You can explore the lush, tropical woods and beautiful coastline, eat local food, and learn about Maori culture.

Whether you’re a fan of the outdoors, an adrenaline addict, or a culture vulture, Whitianga promises to provide an extraordinary experience that you won’t soon forget. So prepare to have fun in Whitianga by packing your baggage!

Whitianga is not just a lovely destination for tourist attractions but is highly endowed with a marine reserve, gorgeous beaches, museums, art galleries, etc. Travel with me to discover how to enlighten your vacation with the best places to visit in Whitianga, New Zealand.

What are the best Things To Do In Whitianga NZ (New Zealand)

#1. Bread & butter Gallery

This is an art gallery in Whitianga where New Zealand fine arts are displayed, directed by an independent art dealer Christine Rabarts.

The Bread & Butter Gallery is a lovely destination for your loved ones to shop for unique gift items. These gift items come in handmade jewelry, pottery, ceramics, woodwork, paintings, weaving, Stones, and Bone carving.

It is quite a treasure in Whitianga, specially made by famous and non-famous Whitianga artists. Steve Carson, Grant Simpson, Michael D Smuther, Souzie Speerstra, Ginney Deavoll, Bruce Treloar, Richard Smit, Lucy Horne, and others.

Visiting the Bread & Butter Gallery in Whitianga is a fascinating way to learn about local New Zealand arts. As such, you can surprise your loved ones with its skill. These items are very affordable.

Address: 24 Wharf Road, Coromandel 3506, New Zealand

#2. Mercury Bay Museum

Mercury Bay Museum is one of the charming places to visit in Whitianga. This is a place to experience the heritage of Whitianga with a beautiful exhibition that interests adults and children alike.

One of the oldest and most-visited places, the Mercury Bay Museum has a lot of exhibits and artifacts. At the Mercury Bay Museum, you will see Kauri timber, Kauri gum, the history of fishing, Maori artifacts, the mercury factory that houses the museum, etc.

It is an excellent example of where to experience sightseeing and recreation. Mercury Bay Museum is exciting and among the fascinating things to do in Whitianga, South Island, New Zealand.

Address: 11a The Esplanade, Whitianga 3510, New Zealand

#3. Mercury Bay

Mercury Bay is a great place to be if you are looking for what to do in Whitianga. It is Previously known as Te-Whanganui-a-Hei. It was given its name as a result of the transit of Mercury through the bay. James Cook changed the name during his exploration of the Coromandel peninsula.

It is a lovely bay with quite welcoming and relaxing scenery. Family outings and get together are best enjoyed in this destination and are worth a trip for every visit to Whitianga.

This place to spend quiet time is regarded as the top thing to do in Whitianga for a memorable trip. Be sure to add this to your list.

Address: Albert Street Whitianga, Coromandel 3510, New Zealand.

#4. Cathedral Cove

Cathedral Cove is a naturally formed archway in Whitianga and a tourist attraction. It is one of the stunning views you can’t afford to miss out in the city, accessible only by boat, kayaking, or walking down the cove.

Cathedral cove creates room for comfort, freshness, and quiet scenery. This is best visited early in the morning to avoid overcrowding. I recommend scheduling your trip to Cathedral Cove during the summer because that’s the best time.

Many sites are around to see, ranging from the adjacent unique rock, Sandy beaches, sphinx rock, surrounding forest, etc., which adds to its picturesque.

Adding a trip to Cathedral Cove is one of the exciting things to do in Whitianga for a fantastic journey before the walking paths, magnificent beach, and stunning scenery. Add this to your list of things to do in Whitianga.

It is located at 65 Grange Rd S, Hahei 3591, or the Southern part of mercury Bay on the coromandel peninsula, New Zealand.

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#5. Simpsons Beach

This is one of the most stunning beaches in Whitianga. It is a free space to tour with family, friends, loved one’s etcetera. Simpson Beach offers exciting activities, such as swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, and other recreation. It is quite a lovely beach and will become your favorite.

Visiting Simpson’s Beach has embraced so many, with many taking it as their second home and a favorite spot for tourist attractions. It is a very safe place to be with great walks, offering an experience of motorhome camping which is not popular on other beaches but quite enjoyable.

At Simpsons beach, do not worry about your cars, buses, or other vehicles, for it has a large parking space.

It is located at Leah Road, Whitianga 3510, New Zealand.

#6. Gemstone Bay

Gemstone Bay is one of the ideal destinations to consider for an enjoyable vacation. It is a boulder beach with sand flats, rock flats, and a mixture of weeds situated at about 0–5 m in depth.

Gemstone bay is situated along the track of Cathedral Cove and is a perfect snorkeling place. I recommend this location because of its enticing views, which are very picturesque and will add flavor to your trip.

You can hire snorkeling gear in nearby shops, and you should also take suitable footwear to this beach to avoid the toughness of the rock. Gemstone Bay is more than just beautiful scenery, which you can’t miss out on, especially for snorkelers.

It is located at Hahei 3591, New Zealand.

#7. The Lost Spring

The Lost Spring is a hidden treasure in Whitianga and a place for special people on vacations. It is a perfect place for couples on honeymoon, lovers on vacation, etc.

The Lost spring is more like a paradise in Whitianga, where about 16,000 years old mineral water springs from about 660 meters below, coming out sterile and pure.

It provides a great treat to the skin, which is why it is worth a visit. The Lost spring features a pool, restaurant, spa treatment, robe and towel hire, etc. This place will serve you the best relaxation and love breeze if you are on a love trip.

It offers delicious meals, tropical cocktails, a grazing platter, relaxation massage, and lots of treatments to make your body feel relaxed and full of life as you enjoy the marvelous bird enchanting.

The Lost spring is surrounded by lush green Bush, which gives it lovely scenery for several clicks of photos.

Address: 121A Cook Drive, Whitianga 3510, New Zealand

#8. Mercury Bay Estate

Mercury Bay Estate is one of the fantastic restaurants and wineries in the Whitianga to dine in. It is another place specially made for both locals and visitors to relax and enjoy.

If you ever love pizza and think of the places to get a well-garnished, full-of-tasty pizza, Mercury Bay Estate is at the top of the list in Whitianga. Some of the best pizzas in the world can also be found here. At Mercury Bay Estate, there are a lot of wines to taste and delicious local and Italian food.

They offer delicious meals, including local seafood, cheeses, cured meats, and a glass of matching wine to suit your lunch perfectly. For me, there is only a visit to Mercury Bay Estate with a trip to Whitianga.

It is a paradise for the best choices in wines. Pinot Noir is also outstanding. With Mercury Bay Estate on your list of things to do in Whitianga, New Zealand, a lovely vacation is assured. It can also be a stunning venue for wedding ceremonies, occasions, and other events.

Address: 761 Purangi Road, Cooks Beach 3591, New Zealand

#9. Whiti Farm Park

Whiti Farm Park is a great park and zoo in Whitianga. It is one of the fantastic things to do for a memorable trip offering affordable and fun-filled activities.

It is a place to experience over 40 amazing farmyards, animals, birds, and reptiles; interacting with them is a clean and fun environment. It is quite an excellent spot for picnics that entertain children and adults alike, ranging from 1 to 80.

Whiti Farm Park can serve if you seek adventure in Whitianga. Whiti farm park features a train, fire engine, farm machinery, fashionable games, etc., which act to inspire and entertain its visitors. Quite a lovely place, and guess what? Kids love it more. Take advantage of your family.

Address: 2414 Tairua Whitianga Road, Kaimarama 3591, New Zealand

#10. Whitianga Town Center

The town center is a small but bustling town in Whitianga, where many happenings happen. It is graced with pleasant wide streets, footpaths, Streetscapes, cafes, restaurants, shops, bars, etc.

Whitianga Town center is an excellent place for strolling, with various sights to see. For unique information about Whitianga city, Whitianga town center is a fantastic place.

No one will want to stress themselves on vacation. On that note, this is an excellent place to spend days, with everything you need close by. Whitianga town center is quite a wonderful place to add to your list of things to do for a memorable vacation in Whitianga.

It is located at Esplanade Whitianga, New Zealand.

#11. Buffalo Beach Reserve

Buffalo beach reserve is a large beachfront situated in the northern part of Whitianga, where great fun is ascertained.

It is one of Whitianga’s most unique sights, with a leveled grass surface ideal for picnics and event grounds.

Buffalo beach reserve is a good spot for camping with motor caravans, but unfortunately, an overnight stay is not permitted. Plan your trip to Whitianga with buffalo beach reserve on the list of beautiful things to do for a great vacation.

It is located at 52 buffalo Beach Road, Whitianga 3510, New Zealand.

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#12. Hot Water Beach

Hot Water Beach in Whitianga is one of them if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind beach to visit in the world. It is a hot geothermal beach of over 60 degrees Celsius that both locals and tourists visit for great sightseeing.

Hot Water Beach is very welcoming, entertaining both young and old visitors, and receives millions of visitors each year. Families on vacation, singles on a business trip, etc., all come here to relax and get a spa massage from the beach.

For a lovely experience at the hot water beach, visitors come to their bucket and digging equipment (spade) to dig a pool of hot water for relaxation. Note that you must explore close to the surf to mix with its cold water, or you can add cold water to cool off the water.

Apart from these, one can also relax at the cafe to admire nature’s beauty and other activities. For a great trip to Whitianga, a hot water beach should be considered on the list of beautiful things to do for a fantastic vacation.

Address: 790 Hot Water Beach Rd Hot Water Beach, Whitianga 3591, New Zealand

#13. Banana Boat Water Activities Whitianga

This is one of the most fantastic tourist attractions for adventure in Whitianga, which provides the best family fun on the water. Banana boat water activities are the best experience on the water, where all ages and groups are fully catered for.

It features one to seven seats for your scenic tours, thrill-seeking offered at a very reasonable rate between $15 to $20. Note that bookings are not allowed. First-served!! First, come!

On every trip to Whitianga, always make out time to tour with the banana boat water tours for the best experience.

Remember to add it to your list of fun things to do in Whitianga this weekend. Tag your family, friends, colleagues, classmates, etc., to enjoy this great adventure. It’s more fun when in a group.

Address: The Esplanade, Whitianga 3510, New Zealand

#14. Mercury Bay Art Escape

Mercury Bay Art Escape is an open studio in Whitianga and one of the most exciting things to do in Whitianga for a memorable trip. The escape engages in a visual experience, annually entertaining locals and visitors.

When I say it’s an open studio, you articulate. Anyways, it implies that Mercury Bay’s art escape is a challenging experience.

Take a road trip or an adventure to explore the art placed by over 50 artists around the most fantastic area in Whitianga, New Zealand. This is a place to experience and get inspired by the fantastic art displayed.

These artists include potters, jewelry makers, printmakers, sculptors, photographers, glass artists, Mosaic artists, flax weavers, painters, woodworkers, etc.

You can as well buy original made art direct from the artist as a gift to your loved ones or for personal use, is necessary though.

It is located on the Eastern coromandel peninsula featuring Hi kuai, Tairua, Hahei, hot water beach, cove beach, brings a speech, etc. Whitianga, New Zealand.

#15. Mill Creek Bird And Animal

This incredible place was made to keep family and group trips like school trips from becoming boring. Mill Creek bird and animal encounter is an enjoyable experience you can’t miss out on in Whitianga.

It features many exotic and native birds, farm animals, playgrounds, a climbing fort, a Western village, a six-hole mini-golf course, train rides, etc. With a visit, you’ll know how fascinating Mill Creek’s birds and animals can be.

Mill Creek bird and animal sanctuary, Whitianga, is meant for kids of all ages, with different activities to engage in. This also is an excellent place for picnics, which is quite remarkable!

Moreover, Mill Creek bird and animal Whitianga shield over 400 birds in 45 different cages, other farm animals, including goats, Kune Kune pigs, Emus, blue tongue lizards, turtles, tortoises, bearded dragons, etc.

It also has camping facilities and a little kiosk serving hot coffee and tea.

Address: 365 mill Creek Road, Whitianga 3591, New Zealand.

#16. Lake Wanaka

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting place to visit in Whitianga, New Zealand, look no further than Lake Wanaka. Located on the South Island of New Zealand, this picturesque lake is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.

With its crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain backdrop, Lake Wanaka is an ideal spot for swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and more.

If you want to take a leisurely swim in the lake’s tranquil waters, you can relax on the beach or take a dip from one of the many boats that dot the shoreline.

For those who prefer more active activities, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding area via boat or kayak. The nearby Clutha River also offers a great chance to go white-water rafting.

Once you’ve finished exploring the lake, be sure to check out some of the nearby attractions. These include beautiful walks along the waterfront, botanical gardens, hot springs, art galleries, museums, and wildlife parks.

Address: Whitianga 3591, New Zealand

#17. Seabreeze Holiday Park

Seabreeze Holiday Park in Whitianga, New Zealand, is the perfect destination if you’re looking for a fun family getaway.

Located at 1043/1 Tairua Whitianga Road, R.D. 1, Whenuakite, 3591, New Zealand, this holiday park offers a variety of activities for all ages. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or a relaxing holiday, Seabreeze has it all.

The park offers two distinct camping areas to choose from. The first area is located directly on the beach with direct beach access.

This area includes tent sites, campervan sites, motorhome sites, and self-contained cabins. For those looking for a more private experience, a bush area includes powered and non-powered sites, campervan and motorhome sites, and self-contained cabins.

Seabreeze provides a range of onsite activities to entertain the whole family. Guests can enjoy tennis courts, mini golf, trampolines, and playgrounds.

Whether looking for a fun family getaway or a romantic escape, Seabreeze Holiday Park in Whitianga, New Zealand, is sure to have something for everyone.

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#18. Soldiers Memorial Park

Soldiers Memorial Park is one of the most popular destinations in the area. People come to this spot to see the beautiful views of Mercury Bay and the area around it.

This beautiful park has many attractions, such as a walkway leading through native bush, a walking track along the cliffs, and two viewing platforms. The park also contains a memorial garden dedicated to the World War I and II soldiers who served in New Zealand.

The most popular attraction at Soldiers Memorial Park is the Bridge of Remembrance. This unique bridge has been built over the river, allowing visitors to view the bay up high.

It features a large bronze sculpture, which serves as a reminder of all those who gave their lives in service to their country.

The site also offers many photo opportunities and is a great place to relax and take in the area’s natural beauty.

If you are looking for a fun family day out, Soldiers Memorial Park is worth a visit. With so much to do and see, it is a great place to explore and appreciate all Whitianga offers.

Address: 10 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga 3510, New Zealand

#19. Fox Glacier

This magnificent natural wonder is located within the Westland National Park and is one of the country’s most famous glaciers.

Fox Glacier is an incredible 12 kilometers long and is accessible year-round. Visitors can experience the majesty of the glacier from viewing platforms or take a guided hike along its snaking path.

Fox Glacier is a sight to behold with its massive snow-covered ice walls and dramatic crevices.

There are guided ice climbing and heli-hiking tours for people who want to get closer to the landscape.

You’ll be able to explore the glacier up close and personal, all while taking in the incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Address: Fox Glacier 7886, New Zealand

#20. Mount Cook National Park

Mount Cook National Park is a stunning and diverse region in New Zealand. Located in the heart of the South Island, it offers visitors stunning views of the majestic Southern Alps and its many glacier-fed lakes.

Within the park, visitors can explore a variety of landscapes ranging from rugged mountains to lush valleys, with stunning views at every turn. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, biking, skiing, and mountaineering. The park also has some of the best trout fishing in New Zealand.

The area is home to two famous peaks, Mount Cook and Mount Sealy. Both are popular with climbers worldwide and offer incredible views of the region. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even summit Mount Cook, which at 3,724 meters is the highest mountain in New Zealand.

For those looking for a more relaxed experience, plenty of stunning walks are available in the park. Explore glacier-carved valleys and alpine meadows while learning about the local flora and fauna. Alternatively, take a boat cruise on Lake Pukaki and watch the sunset over this stunning region.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or a peaceful escape, Mount Cook National Park is an unforgettable experience. With its breathtaking scenery and abundance of activities, it’s easy to see why so many people come here to explore and enjoy the beauty of New Zealand’s outdoors.

Address: Canterbury 7999, New Zealand

#21. Tongariro National Park

Tongariro National Park is one of the most picturesque and iconic places to visit in Whitianga, New Zealand. This park was established in the 1980s and is the oldest national park in New Zealand. It is a World Heritage Site due to its cultural and natural significance.

Tongariro National Park is on the North Island’s Central Plateau. It is home to three active volcanoes: Mt Ngauruhoe, Mt Ruapehu, and Mt Tongariro.

Here, you can explore the vibrant landscape and experience the raw power of nature. Take a hike along the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, an 11-mile journey through the volcanic landscape, or take a stroll around Lake Taupo.

If you’re an avid angler, there are plenty of fishing opportunities. Take a boat ride around the lake to catch rainbow and brown trout. Keep an eye out for eels, too!

Tongariro National Park is also home to many unique wildlife species, such as takahe, kea, kaka, and kiwi. You might even spot a rare yellow-eyed penguin or a New Zealand falcon if you’re lucky.

So, what are you waiting for? Take a trip to Whitianga and explore all that Tongariro National Park offers!

Address: Manawatu-Wanganui 4691, New Zealand

#22. Waitomo Glowworm Caves

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Whitianga, the Waitomo Glowworm Caves should be at the top of your list.

These unique caves are filled with thousands of glowing glowworms, which light up the dark caverns with a magical blue light.

The experience of floating along underground rivers while taking in the beauty of the glowing lights is truly magical. The guided tour takes visitors through a network of caves and explains the history of this incredible natural phenomenon.

You can even go caving and explore the cave systems on your own! Afterward, there’s plenty of time to explore the nearby forests, lakes, and waterfalls. This is a must-see spot in Whitianga that you won’t soon forget.

#23. Hobbiton

If you’re looking for a unique experience while visiting Whitianga, New Zealand, you should add Hobbiton to your list of places. Hobbiton is located on a picturesque farm in the heart of Matamata, the home of the famous hobbits from J.R.R.

Once you arrive at Hobbiton, you will be welcomed by friendly hobbits and guided around their home, where you can explore the gardens, mill, and other beautiful scenery from the movie.

Be sure to snap a few photos at the iconic green door, the entrance to Bilbo Baggins’ home.

For a more immersive experience, you can even take part in a Hobbiton movie set tour! You’ll get to go inside some of the hobbit holes and explore all the great details that make up this iconic movie set.

From walking through the hobbit holes and seeing the clotheslines hung with freshly laundered clothes to exploring the Shire’s Green Dragon Inn, it’s an experience like no other!

So if you’re looking for a unique adventure while in Whitianga, head to Hobbiton and get ready to enjoy a magical journey full of fun and excitement.

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Plan Your Vacation To Whitianga, New Zealand

You can only tell what a city is made of once you visit. Whitianga is an exceptional tourist destination in New Zealand, with many captivating things to do.

Whitianga is also one of those places where you can sketch your adventure or vacation plans and watch them unfold fully. A memorable vacation and adventure are assured with the top 15 captivating things to do in Whitianga.

Hurry, take a trip, and enjoy your vacation.

Happy Travel!!!