Thames

The town of Thames has a rich history. Here you can walk through a gold mine, watch a stamping battery crush rock and try gold panning.

Thames is the Coromandel Peninsula’s main town. Idyllically situated between the Firth of Thames and the mountains of the Coromandel Forest Park, Thames has a fascinating history linked to gold mining and forestry.

Historic wooden commercial buildings, pubs and homes give the town plenty of character. There are two museums to visit and a hands-on goldmining experience to try.

As a sizeable town, Thames offers a wide choice of accommodation, restaurants and shops. The Saturday morning market is a great place to find an arty souvenir. For fresh air and exercise, head for the hiking tracks of nearby Kauaeranga Valley.

Functional facts: Approx. population 10,000, i-SITE Visitor Centre, wide range of shops and services.