Exploring Historical Ferry Landing
Ferry Landing, located on the Coromandel Peninsula, is a historical site that provides access to the pedestrian ferry service to Whitianga. This location is notable for its old stone wharf, constructed in 1837, which is the first stone wharf built in Australasia. This structure was established to support a burgeoning timber trade along the east coast of the peninsula, mainly in kauri, and predates the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi.
Discovering the Pā Site on Whitianga Rock
At Ferry Landing, you can take a short walk to the pā site on Whitianga Rock. This walk begins at the end of the wharf car park, offering a glimpse into the area's Māori heritage and providing scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
How to Get There
To reach Ferry Landing from Cooks Beach, travel west on Purangi Road for a few km, passing Maramaratotara Bay. There is a car park at the end, and parking is available along the road as you approach the landing.
Nearby, you can also walk the Whitianga Rock to Purangi Road Track, and visit Shakespeare Cliff and Lonely Bay. A bit further away is Hahei, Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach.
