Coromandel Regional Information
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Two hours east of Auckland, the Coromandel Peninsula is the perfect way to go to Rotorua if traveling south or to Auckland if going north from Rotorua. It is well worth spending 2 or 3 days to explore this stunning region. The Coromandel is one of New Zealand's premier holiday destinations, with the dramatic unspoilt coast and native Pohutukawa trees on the western side, and on the east the beautiful white sandy beaches. The Coromandel is a spectacular rugged and densely forested peninsula jutting into the Pacific Ocean. The jagged, volcanic hills of the Coromandel Peninsula still retain much of their original rainforest, including giant Kauri trees. Although there are great hiking trails in the forested hills, probably the greatest attraction is its spectacular coastline of sandy beaches, coves and harbours that provide boundless opportunities for fishing, boating and swimming. Visit Hot Water Beach, with warm water bubbling up through the sand that allows bathers to scoop out their own spas.
The Coromandel's history is evident in mining relics, logging dams and ancient Maori pa sites. The past is also reflected in charming colonial architecture and historic buildings found in the small towns around the region, which had their heyday in the mid-1800s following the discovery of gold. Thames: Main town and gateway to the Coromandel Peninsula Coromandel: charming old gold mining town with many craft shops Whitianga: has excellent restaurants. Nearby is spectacular Cathedral Cove and fascinating Hot Water Beach Pauanui: upmarket resort with great fish restaurants and boat charters Whangamata: has the region's best surfing beaches, popular with recreational fishers.
The Coromandel is the perfect place to experience the diversity of activities, fine cuisine and retail opportunities New Zealand has to offer. One hour's drive, east of Auckland, the Coromandel is laced with coastline which means that the local cuisine consists of a wide variety fish, crayfish and other delicacies. The Coromandel district is not short of decent eateries and evening entertainment, there are many quaint cafes and speciality restaurants to suit all tastes. There are many activities to have a go at whilst in this region, which takes its name from the Coromandel Coast, south of Madras in India, including fishing, diving, snorkelling, kayaking and sailing. Visit the unique Hot Water Beach where hot mineral water bubbles up from depths along the shores. Create your own spa pool in the sand to relax and soak in before plunging into the cooler Pacific Ocean. It is worthwhile booking onto a guided sightseeing tour and a visit to the gardens is highly recommended. The area boasts several wineries where some of the finest New Zealand wines can be sampled and of course, purchased. The discovery of gold here in the 1850s caused an economic boom which resulted in some impressive wooden buildings along the main street. The Gold Stamper Battery on Buffalo Road, demonstrates - with machinery that is over a century old - how gold used to be processed. You can even try and make your own fortune by gold-panning, for the very reasonable cost of $5! The small Coromandel Historical Museum on Rings Road sits in front of the old jailhouse and contains mining memorabilia. Relax, away from the city surrounded by scenic beauty and the awesome coastal delights of the Coromandel. The possibilities of the Coromandel are virtually endless, set against a magnificent backdrop, all visitors to the area will remember their unique experience.
