Wildlife Encounters in The Coromandel

Welcome to Hauraki Coromandel—a living testament to conservation in action. This region is far more than a scenic escape; it’s a sanctuary where nature thrives and unique species find refuge. Home to vast stretches of protected land and a dynamic marine reserve, Hauraki Coromandel boasts interconnected fragments of indigenous forests, wetlands, and scrublands.

Here, a dedicated community of volunteers and proud locals guard 107 nationally threatened species, including 51 types of flora and 56 fauna. Whether you’re exploring the ancient Coromandel Forest Park, diving in the vibrant waters of Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve, or simply gazing at a star-filled night sky, you can immerse yourself in an environment nurtured by passion and care.

Come and experience the magic of Hauraki Coromandel—where conservation and adventure go hand in hand, and every visit is a journey into the heart of New Zealand’s natural heritage.

Swim with Rays around Te Whanganui-O-Hei Marine Reserve

Where? Mercury Bay
Why go? Year-round stingray sightings in crystal-clear waters, plus the chance to spot orca hunting them!
How to experience it?

• Explore underwater and dive amongst them with Dive Zone Whitianga
• Take a Glass Bottom Boat tour from Whitianga for a unique view under the water, without getting wet.

Watch Kuaka (Bar-Tailed Godwits) at Pūkorokoro Miranda

Where? Pūkorokoro Miranda Shorebird Centre
Why go? Thousands of migrating shorebirds stop here on their journey between the Arctic and NZ.
How to experience it?

• Visit the Robert Findlay Wildlife Reserve—April is the best time for sightings.
• Join a guided tour with Pūkorokoro Guided Tours for expert insights.

Explore Wētā Hideouts in Karangahake Gorge & Puketui Valley

Where? Puketui Valley and Karangahake Gorge
Why go? These giant nocturnal insects, some up to 100mm long, thrive in humid, dark spaces.
How to experience it?

• Walk through historic mining tunnels—shine your light to spot them!
• Look up they most likely watching from above

See Tūturiwhatu (NZ Dotterel) Nesting on the Coast

Where? Opoutere, Kūaotunu, and Whangamatā
Why go? The Coromandel is a vital breeding ground for this endangered shorebird.
How to experience it?

• Walk along coastal dunes, keeping an eye out for nesting sites.
• Observe from a distance to avoid disturbing the birds.

Search for the Elusive Moehau Stag Beetle

Where? Mt Moehau, Northern Coromandel
Why go? This rare, flightless beetle is found nowhere else in the world.
How to experience it?

• Northern Coromandel remote forest trails, checking under rocks and logs in damp areas.
• Go after rain—they’re more likely to emerge in moist conditions.

Hear the Call of the Coromandel Brown Kiwi

Where? Predator-controlled zones in The Coromandel
Why go? One of NZ’s most iconic birds thrives in protected areas here.
How to experience it?

• Listen for their sharp, high-pitched calls at dusk in the areas of Kūaotunu, Whenuakite, and Northern Coromandel
• While driving along the Thames Coast at night, keep your eyes peeled.

Encounter Dolphins in Mercury Bay

Where? Waters off Whitianga
Why go? Common dolphins love playing in these waters, and orcas sometimes make an appearance!
How to experience it?

• Book a scenic boat tour or a trip with Hahei Explorer for a high chance of dolphin sightings.
• Visit year-round—dolphins are frequent visitors, regardless of season.

Time to visit

Dolphins - Orca can be found all year. Frequent Mercury Bay for a couple of weeks around December.

Whales - Bryde's whales - August-September. Humpbacks occasionally migrate up the East Coast on their way to the tropics through winter.

NZ Fur Seals - winter months.

Blue Penguins - All year but most common through spring into early summer.

Rays - All year

Godwits - Arrive in September, and depart during March.

Wrybill - Arrive in January, and depart during June.

NZ Dotterel - They gather from January, and numbers peak in March. Some northern birds move back to breeding sites from May, with all gone by August.