Around Hahei by Campervan: Hot Water Beach, Whitianga and Mercury Bay
Quick summary: For campervan travellers, Cathedral Cove is the start of a wider Mercury Bay adventure. These guides cover the places around it: Hot Water Beach, where thermal water bubbles up through the sand; Hahei, the village closest to the cove; Whitianga, the bay’s main town and boating hub; the hot pools and spas for slow days; and the beaches south to Tairua and Pauanui, all within easy reach of a campervan or motorhome base.
| Place | Distance from Hahei | Guide |
|---|---|---|
| Hot Water Beach | Around 10 km | Hot Water Beach |
| Hahei | — | Hahei village |
| Whitianga | Around 38 km by road | Whitianga and Mercury Bay |
| Spa and wellness | Varies | Spa and wellness |
| Tairua and Pauanui | Around 30 km | Tairua, Pauanui and the east coast |
Where is the best RV base for Mercury Bay?
Hahei for the cove and Hot Water Beach, or Whitianga for boat trips, shops and services. Many travellers spend a night or two in each.
Is Mercury Bay busy?
Very, in summer and on holiday weekends, when the Coromandel is one of Auckland’s favourite getaways. Book holiday parks ahead at those times, and visit popular spots early.
For the full overview, see our Cathedral Cove by campervan hub.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dig a hot pool at Hot Water Beach, explore Hahei and Whitianga, take a boat trip, snorkel the marine reserve and visit the beaches around Tairua.
Around 38 km by road, about 40 minutes, or a short passenger ferry ride across the harbour from Ferry Landing.
Yes. It is one of Auckland’s favourite holiday areas, so book campsites ahead in summer.