Exploring Kūaotunu
Kūaotunu, located on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, is a charming destination accessible via State Highway 25 from Whitianga. This coastal hamlet has beautiful beaches, with two easily reachable from the main road. The town, with its beaches, is relaxed and artsy, surrounded by natural beauty, and a rewarding stop on any Coromandel road trip.
Laidback with Coromandel charm
Kūaotunu is a small coastal settlement with two main east-facing beaches, Kūaotunu Beach and Kūaotunu West. Both beaches stretch in a gentle arc for about one km, separated by Quarry Point. The waves are gentle, with the coast protected from the Pacific Ocean by the Mercury Islands, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or just walking the dog.
The small town centre, next to Kūaotunu Beach, is compact but full of personality, anchored by the iconic Kuaotunu Store and its popular woodfired pizza spot, Luke's Kitchen. Kuaotunu was a gold-mining town in the late 1800s, with the remains of the mines still visible in the hills behind.
The name, Kuaotunu, is somewhat unusual and belies the laid-back location, with one translation meaning "to inspire fear or dread". It is possibly linked to an old taniwha story from the area, but the taniwha has clearly retired, at least for now!
Gateway to Otama and Opito
Kūaotunu is also a gateway to the much more secluded beaches of Otama Beach and Opito Bay. From the town, head northeast via winding gravel Black Jack Road, with fabulous coastal views. At the bottom of the hill, you come to the beautiful golden sand of Otama first, with limited access adding to the remoteness. Further down the road is Opito Bay, with a larger bach community.
If you head west from Kuaotunu on SH25, you will reach the communities of Matarangi and Whangapoua. These areas provide additional coastal experiences and are perfect for exploring more of the Coromandel's scenic coast.
Getting to Kuaotunu
To reach Kuaotunu, drive north from Whitianga along State Highway 25. The journey is straightforward and provides picturesque views of the coastline. The drive is 16 km and will take about 20 minutes. Coming from Coromandel Town on the west side of the peninsula, the drive is 28 km and will take about 30 minutes on SH25.
