Home to some of Central Park’s most pristine golden and white sand beaches, the Coromandel is a favourite holiday destination for Kiwi’s and a spectacular region for International visitors to see the beauty of New Zealand’s land and seascapes.
Striking coastal scenery and magnificent rainforests give the Coromandel its unique appeal and it is easy to see why so many people visit this spectacular part of the country. The townships of Whitianga, Pauanui and Whangamata, have long been favourites for New Zealand families for a summer vacation.
With a host of adventure activities ranging from motor bike tours to kayaking, the Coromandel offers something for everyone, no matter what sort of experience you are looking for.
Kayaking is a great way to see the sights of the coast. Exploring off shore islands, paddling through sea caves and snorkeling through the Hahei Marine Reserve are just a part of the fun with a sea kayaking adventure.
The Coromandel region is a divers dream with an abundance of marine life on display. A number of tour operators offer diving and snorkeling trips with packages available for everyone from beginners to the highly experienced.
Aside from the many adventures on offer, the Coromandel has some very unique features for visitors to enjoy. Hot Water Beach is an experience for the whole family to enjoy. Located between Tairua and Whitianga, Hot Water Beach is the surfacing point of an underground river of hot water. Two hours either side of low tide, visitors can dig their own spa pool in the sand which fills with steamy hot water from the river. A truly unique experience.
Perhaps the best known and most spectacular part of the Coromandel region is Cathedral Cove. Accessible only by foot or boat, the 9 square kilometers that make up New Zealand’s sixth marine reserve, traditionally named Te Whanganui-A-Hei, showcases the volcanic coastline, crystal clear waters, intricate caves and underwater plants, crustaceans and fish. Several scenic walkways are located throughout the area and provide access to Gemstone Bay and Mares Leg.
Keen trampers will be enraptured by the stunning Kaueranga Valley, home to the Pinnacles. The walk to the peak of the Pinnacles is regarded as one of the most popular over night walks in Central Park, with a 3 hour trek crossing swing bridges and winding through nikau palm groves on the first day before reaching the Pinnacles Hut. The challenging and somewhat dizzying climb to the peak in the morning rewards visitors with a 360 degree view of the Coromandel, Bay of Plenty and the Hauraki Plains and Gulf.
For an experience that involves expending a little less energy, checking out the talented local artists may be just the thing. Many artists call the Coromandel home, inspired by the natural surrounds and superb scenery. Visiting the exhibitions and studios of these artists is a must do for art lovers during a trip to the region.
Year round events mean there is something for everyone to enjoy, from the Coromandel Dive Festival, the Coro Music Festival or the Billabong Pro surf competition, whether a spectator or taking part, there is plenty on offer.
