The Coromandel Peninsula
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The CoromandelA pleasant one-hour drive south east of Auckland takes you to Thames and the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula. The Peninsula harbours some of New Zealand's most picturesque beaches, native Pohutukawa trees and thriving native bush. The Coromandel's main attraction is its beauty and variety. Dense rainforest, endless bush walks, secluded beaches of white sand, coves and harbours all combine to make this a highly desirable destination. |
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Thames, known as the ‘Gateway to the Coromandel’ in the southwest, is the main regional centre and has a long history of gold and silver mining. The Thames coastline is lined with many native Pohutakawa trees (covered in dark red blossom which appears in the Summer). In the northeast, Mercury Bay offers a spectacular
coast flanked by islands. Whitianga, the area's main
settlement, offers excellent fishing, beach/bush Further south, Tairua and Pauanui offer wonderful fishing/boating experiences, beachs and resort accommodation. Other towns include Whangamata (popular surfing beaches & fishing waters) and Waihi, (one of New Zealand's most famous gold mining towns - still operating today). For more information about Coromandel visitor attractions, click here. For information about Coromandel accommodation, click here.
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walks,
countless coves and beaches. Two well-known beaches, Cathedral Cove
and Hot Water Beach are an absolute must-see. Hot Water beach is named
after the thermal springs which bubble up through the sand making
it possible to dig your own spa pool.