Coromandel Peninsula

About 170km southeast of Auckland, New Zealand’s largest city, is a gorgeous volcanic peninsula called Coromandel Peninsula. This wonderful spot is just a few hours away from the hustle & bustle of the city and transports you to a world of serenity and unparalleled beauty. The terrific climate only serves to enhances the surroundings.

Coromandel Peninsula is the site remnants of the exploitation of kauri gum, gold and timber; of a fortified Maori village; thermal activity; and points of interest identifying Captain Cook’s exploration of the area. These are all powerful draws to visitors.

Located between Whitianga and Tairua, Hot Water Beach should be experienced at least once in every person’s lifetime. With the colorful Pohutukawa trees lining the cliffs act as bookends to the beach, this pristine white sand beach sits over an underground river of hot water that rises from the bowels of the earth to empty into the Pacific Ocean.

The beach becomes very busy for a few hours before and after low tide as visitors flock to find the perfect spot to dig out their personal thermal pool in the sand. Hot water burbles up through the sand as it rises to meet the ocean. Beach goers dig out a pool so that they can sit in the earth warmed water and let the steam embrace them.

Cathedral Cove is contained in the Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve and is another wondrous place to see. Designed by nature, this spectacular cove can only be accessed by water or foot. Several picturesque walking tracks lead to this amazing piece of paradise. Pack a lunch and head out for the afternoon to enjoy this marvel of nature.

The breathtaking beauty along the walk is reason enough to take the trek however the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow is the first incredible sight of cove. The magnificent rock arch that has been carved out by water over the centuries provides a perfect backdrop to the stunning ocean beauty. The arch serves to separate the beaches at the cove but there was a rockfall in late 2009 and access is now restricted.

The gold rush of 1875 brought Karangahake Gorge to prominence. Rich in New Zealand’s gold mining history, the gorge has been established as a tourist destination. The rugged scenery is breathtaking and walking trails have been established so that visitors can wander through the terrain. If you are a fishing aficionado, you can cast a line in the incredible waters…provided that you have purchased a licence. Visit the winery, ride the scenic railway from Waikino and Waihi, walk the four-hour (round trip) Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway, or relax and sip coffee in the Waikino Station Café. There is no lack of fascinating activities and sights in this stunning gorge.