Things to Do in Thames

Thames sits at the entrance to the Coromandel Peninsula, surrounded by native bush, striking ranges and the Firth of Thames. From the Pinnacles walk and the Hauraki Rail Trail to goldmining heritage, galleries and fishing charters, there is plenty to do in and around town. Here are the best things to do in Thames, by category.

Native forest in the Coromandel Forest Park near Thames — The Coromandel Forest Park surrounds Thames with native bush. Photo: Krzysztof Golik / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0).

Outdoors: walks, tracks and the Pinnacles

The Kauaeranga Valley, east of Thames, is the gateway to the famous overnight Pinnacles walk, plus shorter forest and heritage tracks like the Kahikatea Walk, Cookson Kauri Walk, Edwards Lookout and the Booms Historical Walk. See our full guide to walks and tracks around Thames.

Cycling: the Hauraki Rail Trail

The Kopu bridge seen from the Hauraki Rail Trail near Thames — The Hauraki Rail Trail crosses the Kopu bridge near Thames. Photo: Johnragla / Wikimedia Commons (CC0).

The flat, family-friendly Hauraki Rail Trail starts in Thames and links the town with Paeroa, Waihi and beyond. It is one of New Zealand's Great Rides and ideal for an easy day out. Read our Hauraki Rail Trail guide.

Heritage and museums

Thames wears its 1860s goldmining history openly. Visit the Goldmine Experience, the Thames School of Mines and Mineralogical Museum, the Bella Street Pumphouse, the Thames Museum, and historic churches like Saint George's. More in our guide to historic Thames.

Arts and galleries

Girasol Studio NZ
Arohart
Thames Society of Arts
Carsons Bookshop and Gallery

On the water: fishing and swimming

The Firth of Thames is popular for fishing — local operators include Legionaire Fishing Charters and Snapper Express Fishing Charter. For a swim, locals head to Hoffman's Pool and the Kauaeranga River swimming holes in summer.

Markets and shopping

The Thames Market runs every Saturday morning in Grahamstown, and Pollen Street — the longest main street in New Zealand — is lined with shops and cafes. Browse local businesses in the Thames business directory.

Find it on the map

Thames and the Kauaeranga Valley on the Coromandel Peninsula. Open in Google Maps for directions.

Plan your visit

Sort out the rest of your trip with our guides to where to stay in Thames, where to eat and drink, and what's on.

Frequently asked questions

What are the top things to do in Thames?

The top things to do in Thames are the Pinnacles walk in the Kauaeranga Valley, the Hauraki Rail Trail, the goldmining heritage sites and museums, the Saturday Thames Market, and fishing on the Firth of Thames.

What is there to do in Thames when it rains?

On wet days, visit the Thames School of Mines and Mineralogical Museum, the Thames Museum, the Bella Street Pumphouse, local galleries, or the shops and cafes along Pollen Street.

Is Thames good for families?

Yes. The flat Hauraki Rail Trail, the Goldmine Experience, river swimming holes and the Saturday market all suit families.