Coromandel

Tucked 170 km away from New Zealand’s capital Auckland, in the northern section of the North Island  amongst pristine beaches and turquoise waters, Coromandel is one of the holiday hotspots to spend your summer in New Zealand. Mile after mile of golden coastline and rich tradition have come to define Coromandel’s laid-back and blase attitude. 

From soaking in the warm waters of the geothermal hot springs of Whitianga, to hiking the breathtaking ridges of the Pinnacles, to diving into the crystal clear water of Cathedral Cove, there is something for the whole family to enjoy at Coromandel. The diving at the Te-Whanganui-aHei Marine Reserve is sublime as a result of the gentle waters, perfect for the relatively inexperienced who want to get a glimpse of the underwater world of the surrounding Mercury Bay. The surrounding harbour is also a vast playground for more experienced divers as the terrain opens up to infinite underwater possibilities.

Unleash your inner adventurer and let yourself marvel at the natural beauty and abundance of the Coromandel landscape. The Owharoa Falls in the Karangahake Gorge is a stunning example, and follows an old railway line into the jungle and goes through the falls and an old gold mining site. These forests are also known for the native Pohutukawa trees, large trees that have a very distinctive red flower that is impossible to miss and has great significance to the Maori tribe. 

Since Coromandel is also the site for New Zealand’s largest gold mine, the Waihi Gold Discovery Centre and gold mine tours are also another major tourist draw. This has also resulted in a thriving hub of artisans, artists, and craftspeople making high-quality goods which turn out to be the perfect souvenir options. Along with stunning coastal walkways and wildlife sanctuaries as well, Coromandel presents some of the best holiday options in New Zealand.