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Coromandel Peninsula

Coromandel Peninsula

Coromandel Peninsula Holidays

Introduction

Its natural beauty and proximity to both Auckland and Hamilton makes the jagged Coromandel Peninsula a popular North Island touring destination for New Zealanders and overseas visitors alike. The bush-clad mountains that form its backbone seem a world away from the hustle and bustle of city life, and the walking here is especially good - on trails through the forest winding their way past historic logging and mining spots.

Circuiting the coast, you'll find a mixture of pebble beaches on the west coast and bays of white and golden sands on the east coast such as Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach.

The Peninsula has a friendly vibe and an interesting history, too, with connections to Captain Cook and the Maori navigator, Kupe.

Whitianga & Mercury Bay

On the east coast of the Coromandel is Mercury Bay, named by Captain Cook when he stopped here in 1769 so that the scientists in his expedition could observe the transit of the planet Mercury.

The mythical Maori explorer Kupe is also said to have settled in the area some 800 years before Cook dropped anchor.

The little town of Whitianga, on the edge of the bay and Whitianga Harbour, remains a popular place with sea-lovers, with sheltered sailing spots and volcanic offshore islands where bottlenose dolphins and whales can be seen.

Cathedral Cove

The east coast's Cathedral Cove is named after the impressive arch of rock that spans the sandy beach - a feature that has made it one of the Coromandel Peninsula's star attractions.

The beach and the cathedral-like rock can be reached by boat or via a scenic half-hour walk from a lookout point near the seaside village of Hahei - bring a towel and a picnic and prepare to relax.

It's also worth allowing time to explore some of the surrounding area as well. Nearby islands and underwater caves are protected within the Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve (Te Whanganui-A-Hei), where glass-bottomed boat trips and a snorkel route set up by the Department of Conversation in Gemstone Bay provide fabulous opportunities to see dolphins, seals and penguins, as well as numerous fish, crustaceans and other marine creatures that live among the intricate rock formations.

Hot Water Beach

Further down the east coast is the natural wonder, Hot Water Beach, named after the hot spring water that surfaces close to a rocky outcrop in the middle of its white-sand beach for a couple of hours either side of low tide.

Simply dig a hole for yourself in the sand and wait for the warm water to seep into it, as steam from the springs rises into the air all around and you relax in your own private spa pool.

 

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Top itineraries in Coromandel Peninsula

Queenstown, New Zealand

Highlights of New Zealand

19-day tailor-made self-drive from £3,790 pp incl. flights

With boutique hotel stays and car hire included throughout, this curated road trip perfectly showcases the unique cultures and natural wonders of New Zealand's North and South islands.

Maui Ultima Elite

New Zealand by Motorhome

20-day motorhome self-drive from £4,685 pp incl. flights

With its spectacular driving routes linking gorgeous coastlines and vast national parks, and plenty of gorgeous locations to pull up and park, find out why New Zealand is tailor-made for a motorhome holiday.

Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Wilderness Highlights of New Zealand

23-day tailor-made self-drive from £8,490 pp incl. flights

Discover the spectacular landscapes of New Zealand's north and south islands on this fly-drive holiday, which includes a journey across the Southern Alps aboard the iconic TranzAlpine Express.

Top places to stay in Coromandel Peninsula

Colleith Lodge bedroom, New Zealand

Colleith Lodge, Coromandel Peninsula

Small & intimate b&b

Relax with a complimentary New Zealand vintage to views over the pool to Pacific Ocean islands beyond.

Brenton Lodge aerial view, New Zealand

Brenton Lodge, Coromandel Peninsula

Small & intimate b&b

Stay in a private cottage or suite with stunning views out over the Coromandel Peninsula’s picturesque east coast.

Estuary Suite, 970 Lonely Bay, New Zealand

970 Lonely Bay, Coromandel Peninsula

Small & intimate lodge

Ideally located for exploring Coromandel’s white sands and dramatic scenery, this intimate lodge combines authentic charm with luxurious touches.

Meet our Coromandel Peninsula experts

Speak to a tailor-made specialist on 020 7590 0614

Meet the team

Why book with Wexas Travel?

At Wexas, we specialise in bespoke travel experiences. Our itineraries are just samples of what we can arrange, and can be changed depending on your precise needs, finances and ideas by our experienced destination specialists.

Contact one of our consultants on 020 7590 0614 to discuss how we can tailor your holiday.

Learn why Wexas is the leader in creating luxury holidays. What is tailor-made travel?

Expert advice & support

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Every step of the way

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