Tairua

Tairua: The Hidden Gem Near Auckland You Can’t Miss! 🌊 Move over, South Island—North Island’s Coromandel Peninsula has its own secret stunner: Tairua, a blissfully uncrowded coastal town that’s made for slow living and epic photos. 📍 Why Tairua? Just 2.5h from Auckland (perfect for a day trip or weekend escape). 20 mins from Hot Water Beach & Hahei (dig your own hot tub or kayak to Cathedral Cove). Zero tourist crowds—just golden sands, emerald hills, and the soundtrack of waves. 📸 Must-Do Spots 1️⃣ Paku Scenic Lookout (P1) Park by the tiny marina, grab a sun-drenched bench, and watch boats bob. Retirement goals unlocked. 2️⃣ Mount Paku Summit Walk (P2-3) A 30-min stair climb rewards you with 360° views: Tairua River snaking into the Pacific Twin volcanic peaks (yes, that’s "Paku" meaning "hill" in Māori!) 3️⃣ Tairua Beach (P4) A 2km stretch of powdered-sugar sand—swim, surf, or just sprawl out like a starfish. #Tairua #New Zealand