Waihi
You'll find Waihi, 29km south of Whangamata on SH25. Waihi once found one of the largest pots of gold in mining history in the country at Martha Hill where gold mining operations also continue today. You can see the mine in operation with the Waihi Cold Mining Company (Tel: 07 863 9880). Alternatively, you might like to take a vintage railride from Waihi to Waikino with the Goldfields Railway (Tel: 07 863 8251). Waihi beach is another good place for surfing. It's 6km of white sands where you can also swim safely.