Things To Do
in Thames
Thames is a historic small town on the southwestern edge of the Coromandel Peninsula, once a major gold‑rush settlement and now a gateway to beaches, native forests and coastal wetlands. It sits on the Waihou River estuary and serves as the commercial and service centre for the Coromandel District. The town blends preserved Victorian architecture along Pollen Street with a relaxed seaside‑town vibe and easy access to outdoor activities such as walking, birdwatching and fishing.
Thames is a practical base for day trips into the Coromandel ranges, to Miranda Shorebird Centre and to nearby coastal towns and beaches.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the charming historic district of Thames, where you can admire beautifully preserved buildings that showcase the town's rich mining history. Visit the Thames Museum to learn about the gold rush era and the impact it had on the community. Be sure to grab a coffee at a local café to fuel your day of exploration.
Spend your afternoon visiting the nearby Karangahake Gorge, where spectacular hiking trails and breathtaking scenery await. Take a leisurely walk through the old rail tunnels and along the riverside tracks, and enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature. This is a perfect opportunity to capture stunning photographs of the dramatic landscape.
Wrap up your day with dinner at a waterfront restaurant, where you can indulge in fresh local seafood while enjoying views of the Firth of Thames. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere as the sun sets. Reflect on the day's adventures and plan for the exciting days ahead.
Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a hike to the Pinnacles, one of New Zealand's most stunning ridgelines. The trail is invigorating, passing through lush native bush and offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. Prepare for a rewarding experience as you reach the summit and gaze over the stunning vistas.
After conquering the Pinnacles, spend your afternoon enjoying a picnic lunch in the restored bush area nearby, surrounded by nature and tranquility. If you're feeling adventurous, consider exploring the nearby caves or taking a short walk to the iconic waterfalls in the area. This is a perfect time to connect with fellow hikers and share your experiences.
As the day winds down, return to Thames and treat yourself to a relaxing soak in a local hot pool. Savor a sumptuous dinner at a cozy eatery, celebrating both your achievements of the day and the exquisite flavors of local cuisine. Wind down with a quiet evening, perhaps stargazing if the skies are clear.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| ☕Coffee (flat white) | $3-5 |
| ⛽Fuel (per liter) | $1.50-2.00 |
| 🚌Local bus or short taxi | $5-30 |
| 🏨Budget motel / B&B (per night) | $80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Great base for exploring the Coromandel Peninsula and nearby natural attractions.
- Strong local food culture with fresh seafood and farmers’ produce.
- Relaxed, small‑town atmosphere with heritage charm.
- Excellent birdwatching and outdoor activity options nearby.
- Can get crowded and traffic‑congested during peak holiday periods.
- Limited late‑night nightlife and fewer dining options off‑season.
- Some remote tracks and services require planning—public transport is limited.
- Weather can change quickly in the hills; some tracks closed or muddy in wet conditions.
- "Kia ora" - Hello / Thank you (common greeting)
- "Ngā mihi" - Thanks / Greetings
- "Haere mai" - Welcome / Come here
- "Ka kite" - See you / Goodbye
- "Kia ora rā" - A more formal greeting / farewell
Places to Visit in Thames
Visit one of these nice places.
Estuary views, boats and reflective water at low and high tide—ideal for golden‑hour shots and birdlife photography.
Dense native forest, river gorges and panoramic ridgeline vistas; The Pinnacles offers dramatic foregrounds and wide landscapes (multi‑hour hike required).
Outstanding birdwatching and tidal flats for shorebirds; use a telephoto lens for migratory waders and godwits during migration seasons.
Clifftop views along State Highway 25 provide sweeping ocean scenes, layered headlands and sunrise/sunset compositions.
Victorian facades, murals and heritage signage—great for street and detail photography in town.
Food in Thames
Thames Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh local fish, scallops and other seafood are common; small takeaway shops and waterfront eateries serve fish and chips and seasonal shellfish—try them when caught locally.
Must-Try!
Tiny, prized fish often served pan‑fried in eggs on toast; a seasonal delicacy found in some local menus or at markets when in season (typically spring).
Classic Kiwi pies sold in bakeries across Thames—good for a quick, hearty lunch and often made with local beef or lamb.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A regular market (weekend schedule varies seasonally) featuring fresh produce, baked goods, artisan foods and takeaway stalls—great place to try local honey, bread and seasonal kai moana.
Scattered around the Coromandel and near harbours, these stalls sell freshly caught mussels, scallops and fish—look for small signs along SH25 and near boat ramps.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Kiwis are approachable and informal—use first names, be polite and expect a relaxed, friendly interaction.
Show respect at marae or cultural sites—ask permission before entering, remove hats inside wharenui (meeting houses) and follow guidance from hosts.
Follow DOC track rules, respect private property, take all rubbish with you and avoid disturbing wildlife—biosecurity (clean footwear) is also appreciated to protect kauri forests.
Kiwis generally expect orderly queues and personal space—stand back in queues and allow room on trails and footpaths.
Safety
Tipping in Thames
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in New Zealand and is typically modest; leave a tip for exceptional service in restaurants or for guided experiences, but it is not expected in cafes or bars.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless tap‑to‑pay is common. Cash (NZD) is still used occasionally in small markets and roadside stalls—carry some small notes for remote purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and often busy with holidaymakers—expect crowded beaches and traffic on SH25 on weekends and public holidays. Excellent swimming, boating and long daylight hours, but pack sun protection and book accommodation in advance.
Milder temperatures, fewer crowds and crisp mornings—great time for hiking, photography and spotting seasonal bird migrations at the estuary.
Cooler, wetter weather with quieter towns; many trails can be muddy and some services reduce hours. Still pleasant for sheltered walks and local food but bring warm layers and waterproof gear.
Flowers and birdlife increase; whitebait season (dependent on regulations) and variable weather—beneficial for early‑season hiking and fewer crowds before summer.
Thames at Night
Hiking in Thames
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A multi‑day tramping route through native forest with huts and dramatic ridgeline views; strenuous sections and popular with experienced hikers—book huts and plan weather‑wise.
Shorter walks through ancient kauri stands and river valleys, suitable for half‑day trips and family outings; check for track conditions and kauri protection requirements.
Clifftop and coastal tracks offering sweeping sea views and geological features—various day‑walk options along the peninsula’s shoreline.
A relatively short, well‑formed walk to a scenic waterfall near Coromandel Town—suitable for most fitness levels and a popular day trip option within driving distance.
Flat shoreline and reserve walks ideal for birdwatching and easy photography sessions at tidal flats and wetlands.
Airports
How to reach Thames by plane.
New Zealand’s main international airport; about 1.5–2 hours’ drive from Thames depending on traffic. Offers car hire, shuttle services and frequent flights domestically and internationally.
Smaller regional airfields (e.g., Whitianga or Coromandel Aerodrome) serve scenic and light commuter flights; useful if connecting to other parts of the peninsula but with limited schedules and carriers.
Secondary airport serving domestic routes—roughly 1.5–2 hours’ drive from Thames via inland routes; may be convenient for some domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population are of European descent, representing long‑established families and newer residents attracted by lifestyle.
Māori iwi and hapū have strong local presence and cultural ties to the land and harbour; iwi in the Coromandel/Thames area contribute to local identity and community events.
The area attracts retirees and people with holiday homes (bachs), which increases population seasonally during peak holiday periods.
Local families and people working in tourism, agriculture, service and small business sectors form the backbone of the community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Rugby is widely played and followed locally, with community clubs and weekend matches—typical of New Zealand towns.
Recreational fishing, boating and game fishing are popular given the town’s estuary and coastal access.
Community cricket in summer and netball in winter are common social sports with local clubs and school participation.
Increasingly popular in the surrounding forest parks and reserve trails for locals and visiting outdoor enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Thames.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in cafes (salads, veggie burgers, breakfast bowls). Informal eateries are generally accommodating, but selection can be smaller than in a city—ask staff for off‑menu options.
Most cafes offer at least one plant‑based milk for coffee and a few vegan dishes; gluten‑free bread and dessert options are common but confirm cross‑contamination if you have severe allergies.
Seafood is prominent locally—if you have shellfish allergies, make this clear when ordering, as many kitchens handle shellfish routinely.