Whitianga and the east coast travel guide

Whitianga is a very popular holiday town on the shores of beautiful Mercury Bay, which was given its planetary name by Captain Cook during a spot of astronomy on his brief visit in 1769. ‘Whiti’ (pronounced ‘fitty’) – as it is affectionately known – has much to offer, including a number of fine beaches within walking distance of the town. It also acts as a convenient short-cut access point, across the narrow Whitianga Harbour entrance and Ferry Landing, to two fine smaller resorts – Cooks Beach and Hahei. Although there is an abundance of leisure activities to choose from, Whiti is perhaps most famous as a sea- and big-game fishing base and, like the Bay of Islands, a trip on the water is highly recommended. In summer and especially at Christmas and New Year, Whiti’s growing resident population increases dramatically, resulting in excellent tourist services and amenities year round.