Coromandel Peninsula
» Click Here for A List of Coromandel Peninsula Accommodation
The Coromandel Peninsula on the North Island is a beach lovers paradise. Fishing, diving and surfing are high on the agenda of favourite pastimes in and around the sheltered bays of the eastern side of the peninsula and regular charters are available. Mussel and oyster farms are plentiful and the beaches are fringed with spectacular pohutukawa trees which produce a great show of colour through the summer months. The main towns in the region are Whitianga and Coromandel town which both have a friendly holiday feel about them. Whitianga is home to the Mercury Bay Museum, which holds the oldest recordings of New Zealand’s history. The beautiful white sandy beaches of Hahei give you the opportunity to enjoy your own natural hot pool on the beach just by digging your own hole in the sand. Nearby Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve has some beautiful walks through natural sandstone caves and sea kayaks are available for hire to view these amazing land formations from the sea. As you would expect, the food in The Coromandel mirrors the landscape.
Seafood is plentiful and fresh from the boats including crayfish, oysters, mussels and scallops. Specialised outlets including The Coro Smoking Company and the Coro Oyster Company excel at providing a Coromandel taste sensation. Local venison is also a specialty. The Coromandel Peninsula has a friendly, welcoming café, bar and restaurant scene. The charming colonial buildings are home to a good choice of eating options, from cafes full of home made goodies to a la carte restaurants with live entertainment. Coromandel Peninsula is also known as an art and craft area and there are many potters, art galleries and craft shops selling works which have been produced in the area. The Kauaeranga Valley has a variety of waterfalls, streams and a selection of over 21 walking tracks which are frequented by prolific birdlife and natural forest. There are a choice of Camping areas with swimming holes and outdoor eating facilities. Canyonz’s Canyoning adventures run abseiling, jumps and waterslide tours through nearby Sleeping God Canyon which is situated under a 300m waterfall. The old gold mining town of Thames provides an interesting look back at the history of New Zealand’s first settlements and lifestyles.
Places to stay in the The Coromandel Peninsula range from a low key waterfront camping grounds to luxury lodges. There are a selection of quality apartments to choose from or you can spend the night in an old historic pub. This part of New Zealand is a popular summer holiday spot so the atmosphere is relaxed and ideal for a family getaway.