Wai Ngākau – The Whitianga Hotel & Resort

Wai Ngākau is a planned luxury hotel and resort development at the heart of Whitianga Waterways, offering a unique opportunity to establish a high-end destination within one of New Zealand’s most scenic coastal towns. Designed to embrace the natural beauty, culture, and lifestyle of the Coromandel, Wai Ngākau will deliver a modern, bespoke accommodation experience unlike anything currently offered in the region.

The hotel site has been approved under the original Whitianga Waterways structure plan. Consenting is underway, with strong alignment to the growing demand from international and domestic tourism markets—including FIT travellers, couples, weddings, and small group events.

Planned Features:

• 100 architecturally designed guest units
  
  • 80 land-based suites
    
  • 20 unique flotel units (floating accommodation)
    
• 200+ guest capacity
  
• Large restaurant and bar with seating for 100+ diners
  
• Conference and event facilities for 100–120 guests
  
• Swimming pool, spa, and wellness centre
  
• Private beach and boat mooring directly in front of the hotel
  
• Designed to showcase contemporary New Zealand and Māori art, sub-tropical landscaping, and clean, modern architectural lines
  

Key Market Opportunities:

• High demand for a 4-star-plus hotel in the Coromandel
  
• Underserved wedding and small conference market
  
• Close proximity to major Auckland feeder market (2.5 hr drive or 30 min flight)
  
• Positioned near key attractions: Hot Water Beach, Cathedral Cove, The Lost Spring, and more
  

Vision:

Wai Ngākau means “heart of the water”—and this resort aims to be just that. The development will create a premium lifestyle destination that connects guests with the essence of Whitianga: the water, the land, and the vibrant cultural and natural environment of the Coromandel.

Proposed Location of Wai Ngākau in Whitianga Waterways