Heading north from Whitianga on SH25 takes you to Kuaotunu on the coast. As with everywhere else on this coast, there is a beautiful beach (actually two directly accessible from the main road).
Heading northeast, this hamlet is the last shop/cafe/restaurant option if you are heading to beautiful and rather remote Otama and Opito on the Black Jack Road.
Heading west takes you to Matarangi and Whangapoua.
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