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We humans aren’t the only ones that love to play in
the waves. Thrill to the sight of dolphins leaping the
famous surf break at Whangamata.
An Adventure
Weekend in...
W
hangamata
Those of us lucky enough to call Whanga
home have managed to integrate the
outdoors into our daily lifestyle. However if
you’re only in town for the weekend, here’s
my top 5 adventure activities to make the
most of your time in town!
First of course, haha, learn to surf our world
class waves – what better way to get amongst
the action! From complete novice to advanced
surf levels, there’s a wave for everyone. The
Surf School has quality equipment, coaches
and the best local knowledge for getting
anyone up and riding. Our NZ Qualified
instructors will tailor the lessons to suit
abilities, no matter what the surfing level.
I also recommend giving Stand Up Paddle-
boarding (SUP) a go. Whangamata is home
to pristine beaches and untarnished islands
just waiting to be explored. The Whenuakura
Wildlife Sanctuary is a particularly popular
destination for SUP and kayaks, located just
600m off the coast of Whanga. The crew at
Pedal & Paddle has been working within the
community for over 25 years and are the ‘go
to’ guys for hires and guided tours to safely
explore this natural beauty.
Whangamata is famous for not only this beautiful beach but also the nearby Coromandel and Tairua forests
that provide many outdoor experiences, including short and long walks, mountain bike trails, waterfalls, and
old gold mining sites. It also plays host to the well-known and loved Beach Hop, a five day commemoration of
’50s and ’60s culture, and Brits at the Beach, a celebration of all things British, coming up in February.
Voted best beach in the country by
NZ Herald
readers 2018, Whangamata’s extensive beach provides not only
safe swimming but the best surf breaks in the country. The best way to help conquer these renowned waves
is to have a lesson. Both group or personal instruction is available through Whangamata Surf School, situated
at the beach front. Owner Hannah Hall supplied the photos for last issue’s Whangamata Winter Fun pages (and
the one above), so we asked this local expert about the best way to enjoy a Summer Whanga-Weekend.
WWW.COROMANDELLIFE.CO.NZ23
If water’s not your thing or surf’s not up, how
about a hike? Experience the beauty of the
coastline from above – a nearby Coastal Track
runs from Onemana to the end of the peninsula
with stunning views of the entire township.
Along the way you will discover secluded
beaches and a variety of native trees. Allow a
half day for the walk, and be aware that while
most of the trail is along beautiful beaches,
there are some rugged areas that involve a bit
of scrambling. Sturdy footwear (and footing!) is
advised with a good degree of fitness.
If you’re after a delicious bite to eat, Port Rd
Project has something for everyone. They
focus on many healthy options yet offer epic
homemade treats and a delightful coffee. It’s a
great place to restock and recharge.
If the weather is less than ideal for outdoor
activities, Whanga has a vibrant main street
filled with lots of shops for ‘retail therapy’ as
well as a variety of great dining options.
Anyone in town (including our team at the Surf
School) will be happy to point you in the right
direction for a great time. There’s always lots to
do, and friendly faces abound!
– Hannah Hall
435 Port Rd, Whangamata
Phone +64 7 865 9208
www.WhangamataSouvenirandJewellery.co.nzQuality and affordable
Kiwiana souvenirs,
jewellery and gifts
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PHOTO COURTESY OF HANNAH HALL
COASTAL
TRENDS
SOUTH END of PORT ROAD
(next to Smoky Pallet)
•
WHANGAMATA
07 865 7080
•
www.coastaltrendswhangamata.co.nzGIFTS & HOMEWARES
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COROMANDEL PENINSULA, AUCKLAND, HAMILTON, and TAURANGA
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Whangamata
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