Tairua beach

Start the day with breakfast on the deck, taking in the breath-taking views, then pack up the beach towel and a good book and walk 15 minutes down to Tairua Beach along a stunning coastal walk for a day in the sun.

DVD’s and dinner

Stock up on great food and wine at the Tairua supermarket/butcher/fish shop for dinner. Watch the stunning sky scape from the deck/kitchen/lounge as the sun sets, and then settle in for the evening with a great DVD from the Tairua Escape collection (we have over 100 DVDs so there’s something for everyone).

MOUNT PAKU SUMMIT

Voted one of the top short walks on the Coromandel, the start of the walkway to the Summit is just 2 minutes from the house. From here you climb 10 minutes through beautiful native bush, surrounded by stunning birdlife to finally enjoy amazing 360 degree views over Castle Rock, the Mercury Islands, Tairua and Pauanui.

Pauanui beach

Pack a picnic and catch the ferry at the bottom of Paku to head over to Pauanui to enjoy the beach (10 minute walk and then 10 minute ferry ride) explore the waterways or climb to the summit of Pauanui (387 meters!).

Play grounds

There are three great playgrounds in Tairua. The first only 2 minutes walk from the house and very popular with little people. The second on the way into town and the third just before the bridge before leaving town. 

The estuary

Great swimming or hire kayaks to explore the estuary. And at low tide, fun for the kids to hunt crabs and yabbies.

Tairua Township

Manaia Cafe

Located 4 minutes drive away in Tairua township, this is our favourite place for Eggs Benedict.

TWO TIDES BAKERY – Coffee

This is the place those in the know go for coffee, located at the top end of the main Tairua block of shops.

Tairua Market

A small charming market that takes place at the community hall the first Saturday of every month, with great fresh produce, flowers as well as preserves and crafts.

Manaia design store

4 minutes drive away in Tairua township, lovely collection of modern homeware, trendy children’s clothes and toys, plus pretty stuff to treat yourself.

Further afield

Colenso café

15 minutes drive on the way to Whitianga, this is set in a gorgeous cottage garden and fruit orchid, plus has a small design store. The Vegetable Frittata is famous. There’s even some donkey’s to entertain the kids. We love this place!

The outer islands (Slipper, Shoe and the Aldermans) – excellent fishing and diving (if the snapper and crays are having an unlucky day).

Hot Water beach

30 minutes drive north and you’ll be digging your own heated pool at Hot Water beach. The best time is 1 hour either side of low tide – the Tairua Information Centre has a blackboard listing the best times each day. You can borrow shovels from Tairua Escape or hire them there to dig your heated pool. There is an excellent little design store there called ‘Moko Artspace’ and ‘Hot Waves Cafe’ is great.

Whitianga 

A really lovely seaside town that is 45 minutes drive away. It has a great selection of cafes, restaurants as well as a large supermarket, Placemakers, The Warehouse and ‘The Lost Springs’ thermal pool/day spa and restaurant.

Top tips

Fill up the Fridge

Arrive with supplies to stock the fridge. Most people don’t want to leave the house once they get there, as the view is just so beautiful. There is a second ‘drinks fridge’ so you don’t need to worry about warm beersies!

Bring togs/bathers

No matter the time of the year. Whether it’s Tairua beach, ‘The Lost Springs’ pools or ‘Hot Water Beach’ thermals there are great swimming options.

Avoid peak travel times

Traffic can get heavy travelling from Auckland on public holidays/long weekends. If possible, try to leave early or late to help avoid traffic.