About Waihi Beach
Waihi Beach offers nine kilometres of sweeping white sand, and one of the safest surf beaches in New Zealand. Relax on the beach and enjoy the sunshine or partake in more adventurous activities such as boogie boarding, kayaking or kite boarding.
Its not just the 9kms of beautiful ocean beach, with white sand and generally safe surf, that draws people back each summer. There's the added attraction of Tauranga Harbour, linked to the ocean at the southern end of the beach by the Bowentown entrance.
Stay, Dine out, Play!
'The Beach' as locals call it, also has a modern shopping centre, excellent restaurants and a whole range of accommodation from four camping grounds to motels, B&Bs and luxury lodges within easy distance.
For boaties, fishermen, skiers, swimmers, kayakers and picnickers, the combination of beach and harbour in close proximity provides a fantastic playground.
There's surfing, fishing, mini-golf, walks with amazing views, art and crafts, history, and plenty of summer entertainment including regular bands at the Waihi Beach Hotel.
Waihi and Katikati
The towns of Waihi and Katikati, both with their own special attractions, are just 15-20 minutes away by car and the city of Tauranga is less than an hour's drive south.
Anzac Bay
Anzac Bay, just inside the harbour entrance at the south end of Waihi Beach, is the most popular reserve in the Western Bay of Plenty. It has a boat ramp, changing rooms and toilets, plus shady pohutukawas and barbecues.
Watch the outgoing tide through the harbour entrance though. There are magnificent views from Bowentown Heads (you can walk or drive up) and you can also take the steep track down to Cave Bay, sheltered from the westerly wind and a popular fishing spot.
Athenree
Athenree has the added attraction of open-air hot pools a small tepid pool (34-35C) for swimmers and a soak pool (39.5C) for adults and children 13 and over.
Coastal and Bush Walks
Keen walkers can take the track to Orokawa Bay from the north end of Waihi Beach (45 min) or carry on to Homunga Bay (2.5 hours), returning the same way or arranging a pick-up at Ngatitangata Rd. This is a magnificent coastal walk with the option of a side trip to a waterfall.
