The iconic Whangamata Beach Hop Festival is held in the sunny coromandel town of Whangamata. Each year around March/April this normally sleepy coastal township is invaded by car enthusiasts and rock n rollers alike all coming to celebrate the nostalgia of the 50’s & 60’s.
You might be surprised to know that many New Zealanders are avid vintage vehicle fanatics and love to show off their classic cars, motorbikes and caravans whenever they get the occasion. Beach Hop parades are literally a museum on wheels, showcasing hot rods and classic cars, motorbikes and caravans that have been restored and returned to their former pristine glory.
Over the years this event has grown to become the biggest event of the year in the Coromandel region, the largest specialist car show in New Zealand and the 2nd largest Rock ’n’ Roll festival in the Southern Hemisphere!
The Beach Hop has recorded attendance of up to 60,000 visitors and attracts classic car enthusiasts who come from as far away as overseas to participate as well as international bands and local celebrities
As well as classic vehicle parades there are many other things to do and see such as a Wearable Arts & Junkyard Fashion Show, Hop Idol, Retro Pin-Up Show, Rock n Roll dancing workshops and more and the whole event can be enjoyed by all the family in a safe controlled alcohol-free environment
In 2016 The NZ Motorhome Travel Group made available a designated area for motorhome parking for certified self-contained campervans for just $30 per night! This makes it easy for people touring NZ in a motorhome to park safely and securely within walking distance of everything.
As the festival is 5 days long you have plenty of time to explore the area which is absolutely stunning with some of the best beaches in NZ!
Take your motorhome up the coast and experience other attractions like the famous Hot Water Beach and the NZ Must Do walk to the beautiful Cathedral Cove which are all within a short drive from Whangamata
The Whangamata Beach Hop is FREE to enter and if you buy a programme for just a $5 donation you go in the draw to WIN a classic car, caravan or $10,000 cash!
Don't be shy to show off the rock n roller in you! Dressing for the occasion is encouraged and it all adds to the atmosphere! Plus there are spot prizes for the Best Dressed
For full information on the Whangamata Beach Hop and dates for next year click here
