Dotted with seaside communities & steeped in gold rush & Kauri history, The Coromandel is known for its talented, creative locals & quality art galleries.
The laid back nature of The Coromandel nurtures artwork inspired by nature. Whether its paintings, sculptures, prints or crafts, there’s a high chance you’ll be able to notice inclusions of the coast, sea or forest.
The Coromandel is also known for its delicious, locally-grown food and delicacies. Stop in at The Cheese Barn in Matatoki and pick up a couple of delicious, organic cheeses – the traditional Dutch Gouda and Brie are local favourites. In Coromandel Town, buy delicious Coromandel Pacific Oysters from the farm gate – perfect for a picnic on the beach!
The Thames Market in Grahamstown has a 20-year history of artisans selling a wide variety of fresh produce and specialty food. Held every Saturday in picturesque Grahamstown.
Homegrown organic produce features in the Coroglen Farmers' Market, conveniently located on the main road at the historic Gumtown Hall. It's a great thing to do on a Sunday; you might sit down for a picnic lunch with a pink piglet, some stone-ground bread, or at least a bag of fresh seasonal delights.
Wandering the galleries and studios of The Coromandel is a highly enjoyable way to spend an afternoon – chances are you’ll discover a gorgeous souvenir or gift to take home.
In Thames, stop by the country’s first ‘off the grid’ art gallery with a visit to the Miranda Farm Gallery & Stray Dog Café, where you’ll find work by New Zealand sculptors, potters and artists.
Combine a ride on a world-class mountain railway with shopping for art created by local sculptors and potters when you visit Driving Creek Railway and Potteries in Coromandel Town.
Focused on offering ‘a little of the best’, Tairua’s Little Gallery of Fine Arts is home to work by award-winning Coromandel artists. In Whangamatā, stop by Topadahil Art Studios (home of contemporary New Zealand/French painter Guity Evelyn) and Kauri Cliff Gallery (showcasing the work of award-winning Kauri sculpture Tony Howse).
For a taste of the region’s famous gold mining history, visit the Waihī Arts Centre and Museum.
Visiting artists in their home studios is a real treat for art aficionado’s and is made possible in The Coromandel with two art-focused events.
The Mercury Bay Art Escape, held every year over the first two weekends in March, is a self-drive tour of more than 40 local artists’ studios. Another self-guided open studio event, the Coromandel Arts Tour takes place over two weekends every October. Meet over 30 local artists, explore their studios and see new work as it is being created.
