Mercury Bay

The perfect location…

….for fishing, diving, snorkelling, sightseeing and spending time at the beach, the perfect accommodation for a relaxing time on the Coromandel Peninsula. Whitianga is a hub for exploring the wonders of the Coromandel’s east coast; Mercury Bay, world famous Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove, Hahei, Cooks Beach, Kuaotunu, Matarangi or the beautiful unspoiled wonder of New Chum Beach.

Whitianga

Whitianga has attracted visitors to Mercury since Maori explorer Kupe first settled here around 950AD. Now an established tourist mecca, the Bay’s spectacular coastline is dotted with islands and its relatively sheltered waters are perfect for all water activities plus a range of onshore exciting activities.

On the other side…

A ferry service is available from Whitianga Wharf – the oldest stone wharf in Australasia – to Ferry Landing and closeby Front Beach or take the shuttle to Cooks Beach, Hahei, Hot Water Beach and Cathedral Cove. Whitianga Ferry Timetable

Cathedral Cove

Accessible only on foot or by boat, famous Cathedral Cove is one of the “must visit” sites on the Coromandel Peninsula. The track begins at the northern end of Hahei. Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve, Te Whanganui- A-Hei, covers 9 square kilometres and is New Zealand’s sixth marine reserve.

Shakespeare Cliff & Cooks Beach

Located between Cooks Beach and Flaxmill Bay is Shakespeare’s Cliff, a stunning scenic reserve. A very short track leads to a horse shoe-shaped lookout at the top of the iconic Shakespeare Cliff, with memorable views of Mercury Bay – one of the Coromandel’s most outstanding vistas.

Hot Water Beach

A truly unique experience! Two hours either side of low tide visitors flock to the usually deserted beach to find hot water bubbling through the golden sand, digging their own spa pool in the sand to lie back in and relax while the steam from their hot pool envelops them. For low tides, please refer to the tides calendar further down.

Kuaotunu and Otama Beach

Kuaotunu – once a thriving gold mining town, offers a good beach, fishing and access – via the famous Black Jack Road – to the picturesque white sand beaches of Otama and Opito. These beaches are lovely for swimming, snorkelling and diving or just to relax and enjoy.