Getting to Whangamata from Tauranga
Tauranga is one of the closest cities to Whangamata, with the drive taking approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on the route and traffic. The journey takes you through the western Bay of Plenty and across to the Coromandel Peninsula. It is a scenic drive with options to stop at interesting towns along the way.
Route Map: Tauranga to Whangamata
This interactive map shows the driving route from Tauranga to Whangamata via Katikati and Waihi. Click markers for stop details.
Tauranga to Whangamata
- Distance: approximately 100-120 km
- Drive time: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Route: via SH2 to Waihi, then SH25 to Whangamata
The route from Tauranga heads north on State Highway 2 through Katikati and past Athenree to Waihi. From Waihi, you turn onto SH25 which takes you over the Hikuai Hill and down into Whangamata. The road through the Karangahake Gorge between Paeroa and Waihi is one of the most scenic drives in the region.
All Routes to Whangamata
This map shows routes from Rotorua, Tauranga and Taupo to Whangamata. All routes converge at Waihi before crossing to Whangamata.
Other Routes to Whangamata
Rotorua to Whangamata
- Distance: approximately 180-200 km
- Drive time: 2.5 to 3 hours
- Route: via Tauranga or via Matamata and Paeroa
From Rotorua, the most common route heads north to Tauranga and then follows the Tauranga-Whangamata route described above. An alternative is to head west through Matamata and then north through Paeroa to SH25.
Waihi to Whangamata
- Distance: approximately 30 km
- Drive time: 30-40 minutes
- Route: SH25 over Hikuai Hill
Waihi is the nearest town of significant size to Whangamata. The drive crosses the Coromandel Range via the Hikuai Hill, a winding but scenic road. This is the same route used when coming from Hamilton or Tauranga.
Wellington to Whangamata
- Distance: approximately 600 km
- Drive time: 7 to 8 hours
- Route: via SH1 to Hamilton, then east to Whangamata
The drive from Wellington is a full day trip. Most people heading to Whangamata from Wellington drive via SH1 through Taupo and Hamilton. Consider breaking the journey at Taupo or Hamilton for an overnight stop.
Taupo to Whangamata
- Distance: approximately 250 km
- Drive time: 3 to 3.5 hours
- Route: via SH1 to Hamilton, then SH26/SH25 east
From Taupo, head north on SH1 to Cambridge/Hamilton, then follow the Hamilton to Whangamata route via Morrinsville and Paeroa. The drive takes you through the heart of the Waikato.
Thames to Whangamata
- Distance: approximately 60 km
- Drive time: 1 to 1.5 hours
- Route: SH25 along the Coromandel coast or via SH25A over the ranges
Thames is the gateway to the Coromandel Peninsula. From Thames, you can follow the coastal route around the peninsula or take the more direct route via SH25A.
Road Tips for All Routes
- The Hikuai Hill section is common to most approaches — take this section carefully
- Summer traffic (especially Fridays and Sundays) adds significant travel time
- Fuel up before the Coromandel Range — there are limited fuel stops on SH25
- Check NZTA for road closures and conditions, especially after storms
- Allow extra time if towing a boat, caravan or trailer — the hills are steep
Frequently Asked Questions
How far is Tauranga to Whangamata?
Approximately 100-120 km, taking about 1.5 to 2 hours to drive.
What is the closest city to Whangamata?
Tauranga is the closest major city. Waihi is the nearest larger town at about 30 km away.
Can I fly to Whangamata?
There is no airport at Whangamata. The nearest airports with scheduled services are Hamilton and Tauranga. From either airport, you would need to drive or arrange a transfer.
