Itineraries

The Coromandel is where Kiwi's holiday! Duration 5 Days

Framed by native Pohutukawa trees on the western side, beautiful white sandy beaches on the east and divided by ranges cloaked in native rainforest, the Coromandel’s 400kms of coastline offers the visitor a truly distinctive blend of experiences.
Heading from Auckland to Thames take the Pacific Coast Highway through farm land and the Hauraki Plans before heading into Thames. Initially built in the 1800's during the Gold Rush, Thames is known as the gateway to Coromandel. Its fascinating history can be uncovered by visiting museums and taking a tour through an old gold mine. Continue north along SH25. The tree-lined road hugs the coastline with breathtaking views across the Firth of Thames and the Hauraki Gulf. Take a short detour just before Coromandel Town for a delightful stop at the Waiau Waterworks. Once in Coromandel Town, spend the afternoon visiting the towns many treasures including the Driving Creek Railway an experience that sums up New Zealanders 'can do' attitude, and it's numerous galleries and studios displaying the works by the areas vibrant arts community. Alternatively you can hire fishing roads and try your hand at some of the best coastal fishing New Zealand has to offer, or get out on one of the mussel barges and try your luck at catching some New Zealand snapper.
Depart Coromandel Town and take SH25 to Whitianga via Kuaotuna, Otama and Opito Bay. Great swimming, beaches with rock pools and interesting caves to explore. Whitianga is the main settlement of Mercury Bay. Whitianga has an excellent selection of fine restaurants and cafes. There is shellfish to gather and fish to catch. On land there are bush walks and horse trekking over picturesque farm land. You may like to take the ferry to Ferry Landing, enjoy the shops along the main street or simply take in the views from the main beach.  
Hot Water Beach is a must visit on your way down the east coast of the penninsula. Here you can dig your own thermal hot pool at low tide. Cathedral Cove is just around the corner, and easy 40min walk or why not kayak to the picture perfect beach set in the stunning natural rock amphitheatre. Continue down SH25 to Tairua and Pauanui. Take in the veiws from Puka Hill in Tairua or enjoy a leisurely stroll along Pauanui's surf beach a great way to enjoy the beauty that is Coromandel.  
The next stop on SH25 is Whangamata with its fantastic surf beach and idyllic harbour there is plenty to do. There is a world class golf course and  a number of fishing charters available. Not too far away is Wentworth Valley home to a series of great walks through native bush.  Depart Whangamata and head down to Waihi on SH25.  An historic mining town, with one still working, sourcing both gold and silver.  Here you can take an interesting journey on Goldfields Railway through the stunning Karangahake Gorge. When you leave Waihi you head inland to Paeroa a clean green country town and home to New Zealand's very first own natural soft drink, “Lemon and Paeroa”. This soft drink has made Paeroa “World Famous in New Zealand” and overseas.  The final stop before Auckland is Miranda. Only a couple of mins from SH2 is the Miranda Hot Springs and it's 100% natural mineral pools a great place to rejuvenate before heading back to city life!

Pohutukawa Coast - The Pohutukawa Coast

An area of outstanding natural beauty, fringed by the sparkling waters of the Hauraki Gulf, and just 40 minutes from Auckland Airport and Auckland City.
Pohutukawa Coast - The Pohutukawa Coast lies to the east of Auckland city and embraces the villages of Whitford, Pine Harbour, Beachlands and Maraetai. Catch a coffee or a late breakfast in the tiny village of Whitford, then on to busy Pine Harbour for a round of golf. Discover the beaches of Omana and Maraetai, with spectacular views across the Hauraki Gulf and out to the Coromandel. Clevedon - Clevedon is synonymous with ‘Rural Style’ where farming is still a way of life. Clevedon village offers kiwi hospitality, country charm and a burgeoning array of little shops, galleries and cafes. Discover the vineyards and wineries of the area with a visit to the lively Sunday morning farmers’ market.