Next 8 Events in Mercury Bay
Explore Whangapoua
Whangapoua and New Chums Beach (Wainuiototo Bay) – world class havens.
Whangapoua and adjacent New Chums Beach have some serious and well deserved beach pulling power for national and international visitors alike. New Chums Beach has been voted in the top 10 beaches to visit in the world, and Whangapoua Beach certainly has its own significant merits.
All About Whangapoua
How to get there
By car
- Situated 25 minutes south of Coromandel township and approximately 40 minutes from Whitianga township. Travel along State Highway 25 to Whangapoua Road and drive to Te Punga Road in Whangapoua.
How to get to New Chums Beach (Wainuiototo Bay)
If you want to experience a stunning beach that is adjacent to a native forest packed full of spectacular pohutukawa and nikau New Chums is the place to be. To get there head to the North end of Whangapoua beach. Cross the stream and follow the shoreline until you see the Mangakahi Drive track, which will lead you briefly inland to New Chums beach. Note some of the track is partly unformed and rocky so watch your step and check the tides for the stream crossing. It is advised that people do not access New Chums Beach two hours either side of high tide. The walk takes approximately 30 minutes either way.
Other transport
See the Getting Around Guide for a range of options.
Things to do for the kids
Where to grab a bite and drink
Places to stay
Must Do's
- Pack a picnic, sunscreen and your togs and head to New Chums Beach for a sublime beach experience. There are no facilities at New Chums Beach so be prepared and take all your rubbish with you when you leave.
Local Tips
- The remains of Raukawa pa are located at Opera Point reserve which is between the harbour and the beach, providing harbour views and a bush walk.
Boat Ramps
- Whangapoua free boat ramp – Opera Point, Whangapoua. Note there are toilets, lights and information about the bar crossing at the ramp.
Public Toilets
- Whangapoua Wharf, Whangapoua Road.
- Main Beach, Tangiora Avenue.
- North End, Mangakahia Drive.
Rubbish and Recycling
- Drop-off facilities: 384 Tangiora Avenue.
More About Whangapoua
Whanagapoua Beach is a safe long sandy beach that stretches 1.5km. The northern end of Whangapoua Beach is the starting point for access to New Chums Beach. Whangapoua has a rich heritage that dates back to the 13th century when local Maori are recorded as occupying the area.
Much later from 1860 the area attracted European settlers involved in the kauri and gold mining industries. Today Whangapoua has a resident population of under 200 which grows to over 1000 as holiday makers and summer residents share the delights of this beach destination from December to February.
Whangapoua Local Info
Castle Rock Chutneys and Dressings
