From the Coromandel we catch back up with Route 2 at Waihi going south toward Tauranga.  It is 23 kms to the town of Katikati. To the East is the Tauranga Harbour and to the West is the Kaimai-Mamaku Forest.

Before you get to Tauranga take a side road to Omokoroa for a great place to stay in this area the Omokoroa Thermal Holiday Park that boasts three hot natural therma pools. It is on the Tauranga Harbour and offers kayaks, swimming and fishing. Website: Omokoroa Thermal Holiday Park.

After a pleasant stay at Omokoroa Park you are ready to face Tauranga. If you want enjoy the Tauranga area go out to Mount Maunganui to have a poke around. Great galleries and shops to wander around and enjoy.

Continuing along the seaside most of the way close you pass through the town of Te Puke.This is kiwi fruit country so be sure to stop by on eof the places having them for sale and grab a bag. Not a fruit higher in vitamin C and good too.

Route 2 continues southeast until reaching Opotiki where it takes a sharp dogleg south and cuts 73 kms through one of the most scenic drives in this part of the country toward Gisborne.

An alternative route that follows the coastline is to take Route 35 up and around the Cape. Again not many tourists get to take this route because of time limitations. A real shame as it is a wonderful drive.