The Coromandel is a haven for New Zealand travellers and international travellers alike. This beautiful oasis has a mythical quality among the rainforests and history that makes people come and never want to leave.
The area began as a gold mining community and the history of The Coromandel is steeped in gold rush glory. Today, the town has maintained its historic roots while moving into the present with alternative living, art and culture. In addition to the eclectic community and charming buildings, the natural beauty of the surrounding area is ever present and promises unique activities and adventures.
Getting in and around Coromandel
Coromandel Airport
The Coromandel does not have an airport. Nearby airports include Auckland Airport, Tauranga Airport, Hamilton Airport and Rotorua Airport. The Coromandel is an easy drive from Auckland - just over two hours.
Coromandel Transport
Getting around The Coromandel is made easy by way of bus and coach services that are widely available throughout the region. Many bus and coach routes allow you to move throughout the region without having to worry about maps and navigation. It is also the most economical way to see the peninsula.
Coromandel Car Hire
If you want a little more independence during your trip, Coromandel car hire is another way to get around. International car hire companies are in abundance in The Coromandel and you can easily find a car for hire at a reasonable price.
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Coromandel accommodation
Coromandel accommodation ranges from high-end resorts to highly economical hostels. While budget hotels and hostels do seem to dominate the area, there is a sprinkling of luxury hotels and resorts. However, even the budget Coromandel hotels are executed with the same style and quality that you might expect from a four-star establishment.
Luxury
The Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort is nestled in a quiet forest setting and furnished with luxurious modern amenities.
Villa Toscana. You'll feel like you're at a real Tuscan villa at this tremendously luxurious hotel in nearby Whitianga. The Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort is nestled in a quiet forest setting and furnished with luxurious modern amenities.
Villa Toscana You'll feel like you're at a real Tuscan villa at this tremendously luxurious hotel in nearby Whitianga.
Mid-range
Lakes Resort Pauanui. The whole family can stay in luxury in one of the cosy villas, only an hour an a half from Coromandel.
The Beachfront Resort in Whitianga is cosy and inviting, and each room is equipped with crucial amenities. At the Lake Resort Pauanui, the whole family can stay in luxury in one of their cosy villas.
The Mercury Bay Beachfront Resort in Whitianga is cosy and inviting and each room is equipped with crucial amenities.
Budget
Coastal Motor Lodge. Here, you'll get your own A-frame chalet with a charming balcony and a convenient kitchenette.
The Coromandel Cottages are conveniently located in central Coromandel for historic charm on a budget. At the Coastal Motor Lodge, you get your own A-frame chalet with a charming balcony and a convenient kitchenette.
The Coromandel Colonial Cottages Motel is conveniently located in central Coromandel for historic charm on a budget.
Backpackers
Tui Lodge in Coromandel Town includes facilities such as a trampoline, barbecue and a sauna.
Coromandel Top 10 Holiday Park has many options for accommodation to suit your budget needs. Stay in Motel rooms, studios, cabins, campervan sites, villas, cottages and even powered tent sites. Anchor Lodge Backpackers is situated in the town of Coromandel for easy access to all of the charm of downtown.
Black Jack Backpackers boasts a great location near the beach!
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Things to do in Coromandel
Coromandel is known for its natural beauty. The rivers, lakes and beaches serve as inspirations for artists as well as tourists, bringing an eclectic, bohemian vibe to the area. The culture is just that which makes visitors want to stay forever underneath one of the obscure waterfalls or hang out in one of the beach front hot springs.
Coromandel Township. The small town of Coromandel is well known for its artist community, gold mining industry and historic architecture. The city centre is a must see to experience the culture of the area.
Hot Water Beach has the best of both worlds. Visitors get amazing beach views along with the soothing comfort of hot springs, which bubble up through the sand two hours before and after low tide.
Mercury Bay offers some of the best beach swimming in the area. Crystal blue water and white sand beaches go on for kilometres at Mercury Bay.
Coromandel Forest Park includes the vast majority of the forested area that the Coromandel Forest Peninsula is famous for. Hikes and walks through Coromandel Forest Park are very popular pastimes for visitors.
Karangahake Gorge. A hike through the impressive Karangahake Gorge is an exploration through history and nature. This tremendous gorge mirroring the Ohinemuri River was once the site of gold mines and old railway lines.
The Rapaura Watergardens are a must-see on your Coromandel agenda. The 64-acre estate offers magnificent nature at its best, including native trees, ferns, lily ponds, water features, walks over bridges, sculptures and The Seven Stairs to Heaven waterfall.
Cathedral Cove is one of the most popular spots in The Coromandel that boasts steep cliffs and beach front beauty that is unparalleled in the area.
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Day trips in and around Coromandel
Thames is a nearby town and was once the centre of the mining industry. Today it's a great tourist destination with museums, historic buildings and guided tours.
Whitianga is the ultimate spot to spend the day. During the summer, it's a hub for fishing and water sports. The rest of the time, there's a marina and a fabulous shopping centre to keep you busy.
Tairua is an important stop when touring the peninsula and a launching point for many fishing and diving tours. A great place to stay a night or two during your trip.
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