Beach Hop Coromandel Peninsula loop event to support local businesses

A new feature at the festival this year is the Repco Power Cruise the Loop on Thursday, March 23rd, with a $5,000 cash prize up for grabs for a lucky Beach Hop participant.

Due to the closure of SH25a, the Beach Hop team have been advised it is not safe to travel in a large convoy for the power cruise day as originally intended. Instead, entrants are being encouraged to explore towns across the Coromandel Peninsula loop at their own pace. Towns across the Coromandel Peninsula are being encouraged to put together packages to entice visitors, and flyers will be distributed to participants on the day.

Cruise the Loop Details

To participate, entrants need to check in at the Ford Reserve between 8 am and 10 am, where they will receive a souvenir swing tag with an electronic chip. They will also receive flyers for each town, which will help them decide where to spend the day and make a purchase to support local businesses. When the vehicle departs, the chip will record the departure time.

Entrants must return to the Ford Reserve between 2 pm and 4 pm on Thursday, March 23rd, with their swing tag to check out and stop their individual timer. Beach Hop organisers say that It's important to note that Power Cruise Loop is not a race, but a leisurely drive around the peninsula.

On Friday, March 24th, at the Castrol Edge Thundercruise prize giving, a random time will be drawn from those who participated in Thursdays Repco Power Cruise Loop, and the closest time will win $5,000. The winner must be present at the prize draw and produce the Repco Power Cruise the Loop swing tag and a receipt of a purchase made from a business in one of the towns.

World first event

This initiative is a world first for an event like this, and it's an excellent opportunity to support local businesses while enjoying the stunning scenery of the Coromandel Peninsula. Although there may be some stop/go areas along the way, it is safe to drive to Coromandel town and beyond.

If you are participating in the Beach Hop Event, take the time to enjoy the drive around the Coromandel Peninsula loop and support local businesses along the way. Not only will you have a chance to win a cash prize, but you'll also be helping the local economy and experiencing the beauty of the region.

For those in towns around the Peninsula, keep an eye out for cars on Wednesday March 23rd, make sure you give them a wave and a smile for supporting your town!

What's happening at Beach Hop 2023?

The 2023 Beach Hop promises to be a week full of entertainment and events for all ages and interests. The festival will host an impressive line-up of live music, featuring bands like Brien & The Rockets, Al & The Wild Katz, and Blaze. Attendees can also enjoy a classic comedy show, burlesque entertainment, and rock'n'roll dancing lessons at the Whangamata Club.

The festival will also have a range of car shows, including:

• Cool Classic Car & Boat Show
• Repco Pre-1949 Hot Rod Show
• Retro Caravan Show
• Junkyard Fashion Show
• Burger Fuel Vintage Show
• NZ Petrolhead Vintage Market.

The festival will conclude with the Classic Cover Insurance Nostalgia Fair, Rock'n'Roll Church Service, Nostalgia Surf Fest, and Top 10 Shoot Out, followed by the final prize giving and live music performances.