Waihī Beach Scavenger Hunt returns for another summer of fun

The popular Waihī Beach Scavenger Hunt is back for 2025, inviting teams to take on 12 challenges spread across the coastline from the northern tip of Waihī Beach through to Bowentown and Athenree. Up to 100 teams can register, with the event taking place on 25 January.

Teams of up to five members aged 16 and over work at their own pace, solving clues and completing challenges — past years have included dotterel impressions and creating sand art. Social media is central to the event, with teams uploading photos of completed challenges to Instagram using the hashtag #waihibeachhunt2025. Under-16s are welcome as unlimited support crew.

Teams that complete all 12 challenges go into a draw for the chance to compete in the Beach Dig Challenge on Sunday afternoon. Raine & Horne Waihī Beach is sponsoring top prizes of $750, $500 and $250. Event organiser Matt Nicholson said the treasure dig is a great way to wrap up the weekend, bringing people together at one of Aotearoa's finest beaches.

Registered teams can pick up their clue packs from the Waihī Beach Information Centre at 26 Wilson Road on 25 January between 8am and 10am. Registration is open at waihibeach.co.nz/events.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).