Waihi: A Town Steeped in Gold
Waihi is located at the intersection of State Highway 25, leading north to the Coromandel Peninsula, and State Highway 2, which leads west to the Karangahake Gorge and south to the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga and Mount Maunganui. Just a short drive from Waihi Beach, this town is known for its rich gold-mining history and an active open-cast gold mine, making it an interesting destination for history buffs and casual visitors alike.
Viewing the Open-Cast Gold Mine
The most prominent feature of Waihi is its large, 200-metre deep, open-cast gold mine, situated right next to the town centre, on what was once Martha Hill. To see it, head towards the historic tower at the northeast end of town on Seddon Street. You can walk around the mine, at least partially, to get a sense of its scale. For a closer look, you can take a tour inside the fence to learn more about the mining operations.
A Glimpse into Waihi's Past
The Karangahake Gorge was the site of the first gold discoveries in the 1870s near Waihi. Towns were established at Karangahake, Waikino and Owharoa as the more intensive activities were developed. It wasn’t until the Martha Reef on Martha Hill was identified in 1878 that Waihī itself began to take shape. Initially a satellite to the more established mining settlements in the gorge, Waihī quickly expanded after the opening of the Martha Mine in the 1880s. With the development of underground workings and later large-scale industrial processing, Waihī evolved into a major centre of gold and silver production, the only surviving active gold site in the North Island.
Today, Waihi proudly showcases its historical roots, with many buildings in the town centre, based around Seddon Street, dating back to the early days of gold mining. You'll find information panels and bronze statues depicting life from a century ago. These elements provide a vivid picture of the town's past and its development over the years.
Shops, Cafes, and More
If gold mining history doesn't pique your interest, Waihi still has plenty to offer. The town centre features a variety of shops and cafes, perfect for a leisurely afternoon. Additionally, Waihi is the eastern terminus of the Waikino tourist train, another unique way to experience the area's history and charm.
Getting to Waihi
To reach Waihi from Auckland, take the southern motorway (State Highway 1 ) south to the State Highway 2 off-ramp. Follow State Highway 2 all the way to Waihi. The drive takes 110 minutes and is 142. From Tauranga, it is 56 minutes and 60.5 km.
From Waihi, head west to the Karangahake Gorge to explore the Karangahake Loop, Windows Walk, Victoria Battery and Owharoa Falls. For a more remote beach experience, discover Orokawa Bay and Homunga Bay, north of Waihi Beach.
