Winding your way along State Highway 35, you’ll uncover a string of hidden gems that capture the wild beauty and laid-back charm of the East Coast. From the picture-perfect shores of Anaura Bay — where forested hills meet crystal-clear waters and the Anaura Bay Walkway invites you to linger — to the historic heart of Tokomaru Bay, home to the legendary Te Puka Tavern and the iconic old wharf, every stop tells a story.
Fuel up on famous paua pies at Café 35, cast a line at Tolaga Bay’s 660-metre-long wharf, or treat yourself to something delicious from the Black Market food trailer. With heritage stays, friendly locals, and scenic gems like Cooks Cove Walkway and Te Pourewa Beacon of Light, this stretch of coast is not just a drive — it’s an experience
A Category One Heritage NZ Site and one of the top 100 historic sites to visit in the country
Traditional Māori art form highlighting dual heritage and shared future of Aotearoa New Zealand
The ideal place to stop and rest awhile and meet the friendly people of the East Coast