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

New Chums Beach

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

Whangapoua Beach is a beautiful white sandy beach, safe for all the family to swim. For children who are not so confident in the surf the lagoon at the Northern end of the beach is a great option as it is away from the waves.

Where to grab a bite and drink

Castle Rock Café offers you a takeaway or sit-down menu throughout the day using local produce that includes their range of homemade chutneys and sauces.

Places to stay

Castle Rock Cafe has accommodation plus check out a range of options in our Accommodation Guide.

View Guide

Shopping

We have options nearby on our explore pages or in our Local Info guide.

View Guide

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

Collections Normally on Tuesdays Note: Christmas holiday collection times may differ.

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 13^th 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.