Coromandel (Te Tara-o-te-ika-o-Maui), New Zealand

A relaxing world of sand, sea and forest

Rustic, relaxed and unspoiled, the Coromandel is one of New Zealand’s best-loved holiday destinations.

The rugged volcanic hills are cloaked in native rainforest, and more than 400 kilometres of spectacular coastline promises you can find the beach of your dreams. The Coromandel is a place where bush and beach are both easily accessible. In the same day, you can experience the blue dazzle of the Pacific Ocean and calming greenness of the kauri forest.

Inspired by the region’s idyllic setting, many artists and crafts people have made the Coromandel their home - visitors to the area are welcome in their studios. The area’s fascinating history is evident in gold mining relics, logging dams and ancient Maori pa sites. The past can also be found in the charming colonial architecture and historical buildings preserved in several towns around the region.

In a day you can sail from Auckland to the beauty and isolation of the Coromandel Peninsula. Created by volcanic activity some 8 million years ago, the peninsula is a spectacular collection of beautiful beaches, harbours and outlying islands. You can expect to supplement your provisions with freshly caught snapper, cod and terakihi. Photo by Jocelyn Carlin (www.carlin.co.nz) Click on the image for larger version

Key Features

Cathedral Cove. A 20 minute walk, or a guided kayaking trip, will bring you to the white sands and arches of Cathedral Cove. It’s an idyllic place to swim, snorkel, picnic or simply relax under the pohutukawa trees.

Hot Water Beach. This beach lives up to its name. For two hours either side of low tide, you can create your own hot pool by digging into the sands. The hot spring bubbling up through the sand is the legacy of an exciting volcanic past.

The 309 Road. From 'The 309 Road' you can walk to the foot of the Waiau Falls, where the Waiau River crashes over a rock face. Another 10 minute track will take you to the 309 Kauris, the finest stand of kauri trees in the region.