Things to do in Thames

On the edge of the spectacular Coromandel Peninsula on New Zealand’s North Island, the charming coastal hamlet of Thames is a getaway packed with history. From 13th-century Polynesian voyagers to the arrival of James Cook, the first pioneers, and the gold rush boom of the mid-1800s, every corner here tells a story. 

Nestled in lush native forest with the volcanic ridges of the Coromandel range rising up behind, Thames is also renowned for its natural beauty, all within 90 minutes of Auckland. Whether you're a nature lover or a history buff, our guide to what to do in Thames, New Zealand will help you uncover the best experiences this surprising pocket of the world has to offer.

Stretch your legs and take in the coastal scenery on the Thames Coastal Walkway. This 3.5 km trail winds along the picturesque Thames foreshore from Shortland Wharf to Kuranui Bay, through mangroves and boatyards. Keep a lookout for the Karaka bird hide and the atmospheric remains of the historic Burke Street Wharf, built in 1860 to service the gold rush, and now a popular spot for photographers at sunset. You’ll also pass by the charming miniature Thames Small Gauge Railway, which runs along the foreshore, and other heritage sites.

Thames War Memorial

Resting atop a hill above the town, the Thames War Memorial offers expansive views looking out across the mangroves and mudflats of the Firth of Thames. First unveiled on ANZAC Day 1925, the memorial commemorates those who died in WWI. The monument was restored in recent years in honour of the 100th anniversary of the Great War and is now lit up in colours at different times of year. It’s a peaceful spot with a mesmerising view, perfect for a moment of quiet reflection.

One of the best ways to explore this beautiful region is by bike, and the Hauraki Rail Trail is one of New Zealand’s iconic Great Rides. The trail follows historic railway lines through rolling farmland and quaint villages for 160 km along the Shorebird Coast. Ranked an easy grade 1 ride with a gentle gradient and few hills, you can spend five days cycling the whole route end-to-end or enjoy shorter sections on leisurely day rides. The trail starts in nearby coastal Kaiaua, winding through verdant wetlands abundant with renowned rare birds, and wraps up in the lush farmland of Matamata, home to the must-see Hobbiton Movie Set. 

Rapaura Watergardens

Another peaceful spot is the exquisite Rapura Watergardens, a tranquil oasis 30 minutes’ north of Thames on the Coromandel Peninsula. Spread across a leafy 64 acres, the award-winning private gardens were established in the 1960s with a vision for a ‘well-kept wilderness’. Follow meandering shady paths over bridges to a serene waterfall surrounded by native bush and ferns. Enjoy seasonal displays of native and exotic flowers throughout the year, dotted with garden and water sculptures.

The wild beauty of the Coromandel Forest Park is only half an hour from Thames, with scenic campsites and exceptional forest walks to explore. Stand in awe at the feet of giant kauri trees in temperate rainforest, follow trails to cascading waterfalls, and discover relics from the area’s kauri logging and gold-mining past. 

If you’re up for a rewarding challenge, tackle the popular overnight hike on the Kauaeranga Kauri Trail (Pinnacles Walk) that winds through the Pinnacles, a jagged forested range in the park. This historic track follows an early-1900s packhorse and kauri loggers' route through the beautiful Kaueranga Valley to the Pinnacles Hut. For the ultimate view, head to the summit at sunrise for a magical 360-degree vista of the Coromandel, Bay of Plenty and the Hauraki Gulf and Plains.

Thames Museum te Whare Taonga o te Kauaeranga

For a deeper dive into the social history of the region, the Thames Museum Te Whare Taonga o te Kauaeranga is another fascinating stop. Step through the bluestone archway and discover the stories of how people lived and worked in the area through the years, through historic photographs, Māori artefacts, and relics from the mining era. Highlights include the gallery of handcrafted kauri model buildings from the gold rush, and the Taonga Māori Gallery showcasing traditional Māori craftsmanship.

Cool off in the warmer months with a refreshing dip at Hoffman’s Pool, an idyllic river swimming spot in the Kauaeranga Valley. Fringed by leafy foliage and a smooth, pebbly beach, the pool features a high rock, perfect for launching off into the crystal clear waters below. You can access the swimming hole from the car park or follow the Kauaeranga Nature Walk, an easy 30-minute walk through beautiful native bush. Along the way, wooden platforms afford sweeping views over the river to an ancient rhyolite volcanic plug formed over a million years ago, known locally as 'Māori Chief'.

Thames School of Mines

The discovery of gold here in 1867 sparked a worldwide frenzy, luring thousands in search of their fate and fortune. The twin mining settlements of Grahamstown and Shoreland quickly sprang up, swelling to a population of 28,000 at the peak of the boom. By 1874, the gold settlements had joined to become the town of Thames. 

You can find out more about the Hauraki gold fields at the historic Thames School of Mines, built in 1886. The school was originally one of 30 mining schools nationwide, instructing gold miners about practical science and technology, and is one of the best-preserved historic mining schools of its kind in New Zealand.

You’ll find plenty of nourishing cafes and restaurants in Thames, from busy breakfast spots to hip distilleries and artisan smokehouses.

Belle & Bean Cafe

Serving up excellent coffee in a welcoming atmosphere, local favourite Belle & Bean Cafe is a great choice for breakfast, lunch or a mid-afternoon treat. Grab a sunny seat at the long picnic table outside and tuck into loaded chicken nachos, tasty pork ribs or try one of their delicious double cheese and onion toasties. Belle & Bean opens early too at 6.30 am, perfect for travellers making the most of the day and hitting the adventure trail early.

Awildian Gin

Harnessing the flavours of local ingredients and exotic botanicals, this New Zealand-made gin has won a swag of international honours at the World Gin Awards. Crafted by local micro-distillery, the Coromandel Distilling Company, Awildian is a classic dry gin with refreshing juniper and herbal notes. Drop in to their cellar door at The Depot, open Tuesday to Sunday, for a free tasting of their collection and meet the makers behind this champion drop. 

Blackbeards Smokehouse

For more delicious local flavours, this artisan smokehouse is a must-visit, specialising in wild-caught, premium seafood. Using sustainably sourced, New Zealand-native Mānuka, Blackbeards transforms local Coromandel mussels into exceptional hand-smoked delicacies. Try one of their famous gourmet seafood pies or stock up on their tasty smoked mussels in chilli, garlic and Makrut lime to take home.

Where to stay

You’ll find comfortable and cosy Thames accommodation at the Comfort Inn Thames, formerly the Sunset Motel. Enjoy rooms with picturesque views of the Firth of Thames, and easy access to beaches, local attractions and the vibrant centre of town.