Coromandel
- Whitianga
46 km (29 miles)
Approximately 0.5 hour
Road Conditions: State Highway
Formerly a gold-mining and timber town, Coromandel is now a haven for artists, craftspeople and conservationists. It has many well-preserved Victorian buildings and an interesting museum. There are several good walks in the area and a railway enthusiast has created an hour-long train trip at Driving Creek.
From Coromandel you can explore the tip of the peninsula – the roads aren’t highly developed, so expect slow going. Colville, Port Jackson, Port Charles and Kennedy Bay are known for their untouched beauty.
On your drive to Whitianga you’ll notice a side road leading to Whangapoua Beach – a worthwhile detour if you have time. You could also call into Matarangi, a recently developed beach settlement. Kuaotunu is another area of pretty beaches.
The beach town of Whitianga is home to a fishing fleet - expect to eat some excellent seafood while you’re here. Best things to do include surfing, surf casting and beach walks. Catch the ferry to the south side of the harbour – a short taxi ride will take you to Cooks Beach.
Scenic Highlights
Colville and beyond
Take a scenic drive to the northern end of Coromandel Peninsula and discover beautiful isolated beaches and remote forest trails.
Cook's Coast beaches
Catch the ferry to enjoy a string of delightful sandy beaches on the Pacific Ocean coast of the Coromandel Peninsula.
Hahei and Cathedral Cove
From beautiful Hahei Beach you can walk to Cathedral Cove, where a naturally formed archway deserves photographic attention.
Kauaeranga Valley
Explore a large valley furnished with rivers, waterfalls and native forest. Follow established tracks and camp beneath the stars.
Coromandel Coastal Walkway
Taking in views of Great Barrier Island, Cuvier, the Hauraki Gulf and Pacific Ocean, this must rank as one of the most beautiful coastal walks in the country.
Historic Coromandel township
This historic town makes an excellent base for blissful days of forest hiking and beach-hopping.
Te Whanganui-A-Hei (Cathedral Cove) Marine Reserve
From Hahei Beach you can walk to the snorkelling trail at Gemstone Bay - a self-guided underwater tour.
Activities
Coromandel
Arts & Crafts (6)
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