Our Area

The peninsula is steep and hilly and largely covered in bush. The Coromandel Range forms the spine for most of the peninsula, with the Moehau Range at the northern end providing the highest point at nearly 900 metres (3,000 ft). Beyond, the large island of Great Barrier, which lies beyond the northern tip, can be thought of as an extension of the ranges. Great Barrier is separated from Cape Colville on the peninsula’s northern coast by the Colville Channel.

Although the peninsula is close to large centres of population such as Auckland to the west and Tauranga to the southeast, its rugged nature means that much of it is relatively isolated, and the interior and northern tip are both largely undeveloped and sparsely inhabited. The Coromandel Forest Park covers much of the peninsula’s interior.

Numerous small islands and island groups lie offshore, such as the Motukawao Islands to the northwest, the Aldermen Islands and Slipper Island to the southeast, and the Mercury Islands to the northeast.

The peninsula shows considerable signs of past volcanism. It comprises the eroded remnants of the Coromandel Volcanic Zone, which was highly active during the Miocene and Pliocene periods. Volcanic activity has since primarily shifted southeast to the Taupo Volcanic Zone, although Mayor Island was recently active some 25 km to the east. Geothermal activity is still present on the Peninsula, with hot springs in several places, notably at Hot Water Beach, on the central east coast between Whitianga and Tairua.

The peninsula is a popular place to live for people who have chosen an alternative lifestyle, especially those who have left Auckland. The 1970s saw thousands of hippies relocate from large cities around New Zealand to the Coromandel in search of an environmentally friendly lifestyle associated with the counterculture back-to-the-land movement. As of 2010, increasing numbers of affluent Aucklanders have started moving to the Coromandel.

Population density decreases with both distances from the coast and distance north. Of the main population centres, only Coromandel, Colville, Matarangi and Whitianga lie in the north of the peninsula, and much of the interior remains virtually uninhabited.

A forest park occupies much of the centre of the peninsula, and the coasts are dotted with numerous beaches and scenic views. Evidence of the region’s geothermal origins can be found in hot springs, notably at Hot Water Beach on the peninsula’s east coast. The town of Whangamatā is a popular holiday retreat, and Whitianga on Mercury Bay is renowned for its yachting. The peninsula’s waters are also a popular destination for scuba divers. Cathedral Cove, named for its cathedral-like arch through the limestone cliff, is a popular destination, only accessible by boat or on foot. In recent years, dolphins and more coast-loving whales are appearing along the coasts as their numbers began to recover, such as southern right whale, Bryde’s whale and humpback whale.

Mercury Islands

The Mercury Islands (sometimes referred to as Iles d’Haussez) are a group of seven islands off the northeast coast of New Zealand‘s North Island. They are located 8 kilometres (5 mi) off the coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, and 35 kilometres (22 mi) northeast of the town of Whitianga.

The main chain of the Mercury Islands consists of the large Great Mercury Island (also known as Ahuahu) to the west, Red Mercury Island (Whakau) to the east, and five much smaller islands between the two (Korapuki, Green, Atiu/Middle, Kawhitu/Stanley and Moturehu/Double Islands). Only the main island is inhabited – the others form part of a nature reserve. To the south of this chain, numerous tiny islets lie to the north of the mouth of Mercury Bay. One lone island, Cuvier Island, lies 15 kilometres (9.3 mi) to the north of Great Mercury Island, although this island is not normally considered part of the Mercury Island group. Great Mercury Island is what remains of a Pliocene rhyolitic volcano.

Great Mercury

Great Mercury Island is owned by Michael Fay and David Richwhite, prominent New Zealand businessmen. The private island, which features two luxurious residences, can be hired for around $20,000 NZD per day. U2‘s lead singer Bono and guitarist The Edge stayed on the island during U2’s Vertigo concerts in Auckland in November 2006. On 30 November 2009, Great Mercury Island hosted the first successful launch of Rocket Lab‘s suborbital Atea-1 sounding rocket.

Fay and Richwhite have spent $750,000, matching the same amount contributed by the Department of Conservation, to make the island (which is open to the public) pest-free, in a programme beginning in 2014. On 13 May 2016, it was announced that the Greater Mercury group of islands are now free from introduced mammalian pests. In pre-colonial times, the island was the location of at least 20 pā, including Matakawau, a pā on the western side of the island where extensive archaeological excavations were undertaken in the 1950s.

Other Islands

The smaller islands in the group have been identified as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International because they provide nesting sites for up to 3000 breeding pairs of Pycroft’s petrels. Moturehu/Double Island and Whakau/Red Mercury are home to the critically endangered Mercury Islands tusked wētā.

The Coromandel

The Coromandel, renowned for its pristine beaches, misty forests and laid-back vibe, is one of New Zealand’s most popular holiday destinations.

The laid-back locals, golden coastline, abundant marine life and mountainous interior have long made The Coromandel a favourite holiday spot for kiwis.

The coastal playground of The Coromandel is full of spectacular natural highlights.

Its mountainous, forested interior dotted with walking tracks means there’s something for everyone.

With around 400 kilometres of coastline and 100 offshore islands, The Coromandel is one of New Zealand’s favourite fishing playgrounds.

For lovers of white sand beaches and secret coves, The Coromandel will be paradise. Head to Cathedral Cove where a naturally-formed archway divides two small, perfect bays. Dig a hole at nearby Hot Water Beach and bathe in naturally heated mineral water that bubbles up from deep within the earth. Or, if you’re a keen surfer, head to Pauanui or Whangamata – both towns have beaches known for their consistent swell.

As well as stunning beaches, there’s a myriad of walking tracks on offer in this region. The most popular is The Pinnacles, a 2-day walk that takes hikers up to one of the highest peaks in the Coromandel Forest Park for spectacular views. The Coromandel Coastal Walkway is a day walk that winds its way along the coast and traverses bush, farmland and coastline; while walks in the Wentworth Valley showcase a beautiful waterfall and abandoned gold mines.

Accommodation

The Mercury Bay area has a variety of accommodation on offer and caters for all. Starting at Whangapoua in the north and ending at Tairua Hill, the area is renowned for its traditional kiwi camping culture. This includes DOC camps, campgrounds and holiday parks as well as modest to luxury…

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Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park

Hot Water Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park has a variety of accommodation to suit all needs. These include 11 different accommodation options from a 3 Bedroom Apartment with a private garden and grounds to non-powered campsites set amongst native bush.
Hahei Beach resort

Situated on stunning Hahei Beach on the North Island of NZ, the crystal clear waters of the Te Whanganui a Hei Marine Reserve, the volcanic cliffs, caves, and the islands of Mercury Bay invite you to live an ocean life. Welcome to an explorer’s paradise.

Walk, kayak, or take a boat tour to Cathedral Cove from Hahei Beach Resort. Take in the sunrise from Te Pare Point. You’re spoilt for choices of the best Coromandel beaches to discover, dig a hot pool at Hot Water Beach, just a 10-minute drive away.
Flaxmill Campground

Open 1 October – 30 April, Flaxmill’s boutique seaside campground is located near Cooks Beach, Ferry Landing, Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach. Large sites for tents or motorhomes, sleeper cabins, immaculate facilities. All set within park grounds.
Villa Toscana

Private, secluded luxury accommodation set amongst native bush with spectacular views overlooking Mercury Bay on the East Coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. Fully self – contained 2 bedroom apartment, single party only. A slice of Italian luxury.
Bayview Valley Lodge bed & Breakfast

Our Boutique Bed & Breakfast offers two stylish Suites, each spacious and contemporary in their design and individual in their character. Our emphasis is for you to feel welcome and at home, but have the comfort and relaxation of your private suites, with the personal touches that will make your stay a memorable and special one.

All suites offer a TV with Free Netflix, Freeview Satellite channels, and Wi-Fi. There is a dedicated Business Office for clients wishing to have use of a PC, Fax, Photocopier, Scanner and Postal Services. We look forward to welcoming you to Bayview Valley Lodge. We also are LGBTQ Friendly.
Kaeppeli's Kuaotunu

A unique, peaceful secluded eco-friendly haven with a rustic touch above Kuaotunu Beach. Tremendous views from all rooms. Breakfast served in panoramic gazebo. Children welcome. Swiss German spoken. Kuaotunu is ideal for exploring The Coromandel.
Otama Beach Hideaway

Romance and relaxation – a perfect description of the delightful Otama Beach Hideaway, set above the beautiful un-crowded white sand Otama beach and pristine native dunes this is one of the best and most exclusive of the Coromandel Peninsula’s beaches. The luxurious ocean view self-contained studio apartment is suitable for two adults. Check availability or book now.

Stunning views and surrounded by protected native New Zealand bush make this setting a special place to spend a leisurely and relaxing holiday or long vacation.

Coromandel Luxury Escapes

Boutique glamping accommodation

Nestled on the edge of Matarangi Harbour you’ll find Coromandel Luxury Escapes – A boutique glamping experience where coast meets country.

Food

We love to support locals as much as we can.  What they do is mostly organic, sustainable and local.

Coromandel Catering

A Whitianga-based, bespoke catering company, we solely focus on catering and creating delicious food.

With our extensive food and hospitality knowledge, let us do all the work.

We’re extremely passionate about food and hospitality and can’t wait to share it with you! From bite-sized goodness to catered dinner parties- it’s all made with love and care.

Coromandel Oyster Company

It’s a must for all oyster & mussels lovers, you can’t leave the Coromandel without tasting our moana! 

We are situated on the south side of Coromandel town on SH25. Our farms are behind our retail shop and you can relax in our garden and eat fresh oysters and hot food from our takeaway menu on the edge of the sea.

We are open 7 days a week, from 9 am in the morning until 4:30 in the afternoon.

Farm fresh Pacific oysters from the farmgate.

The Harbour House Cafe

Harbour house cafe is very close to the Whitianga wharf, where Windborne picks up guests and departs from.

It’s a good place to grab a snack or lunch to go, on our sailing in the bay trips. We recommend bringing a picnic lunch on those 6 hours tours because lunch is not included.

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Luke’s Kitchen

Make Pizza not war!

Lukes kitchen is a must-do! What started as a small take way, one person business turned into the hot spot of the whole Coromandel. It’s my favourite place to be. It’s not only that they make the best pizzas, it’s the whole experience you get with it. Take your time, relax & enjoy the sunset, the people, and the live music.

Amazing place, good vibes, delicious food and a fabulous team!

Picnic and Platter

Creating gourmet platters, picnic boxes, hampers and grazing tables for Whitianga and beyond.

You can order a custom made platter to suit your culinary requirements, and satisfy your gourmet dreams! Message us on @picnicandplatter

We create bespoke grazing tables and platters for weddings, corporate events, celebrations of life, birthdays, baby showers, hens parties, boat parties, picnics or just because.

Blue Ginger

“Blueginger is absolutely our favourite restaurant to go to in Whitianga (possibly Coromandel)! It’s a place where all the locals go.”

We have been cooking around the world, from Europe, London, SE Asia, Australia & the Pacific for a very long time (a few decades!)

After two years in the Pacific Islands spearheading the “think global, act local” movement training hotel chefs in utilising local produce and kitchen staff in the re-invention of traditional dishes, we washed up on the Coromandel to help out in the kitchen at Smitty’s, a family business in Whitianga.

Our love is hospitality, training the next generation of locals & serving up delicious, healthy food that nourishes the soul. We hope you enjoy our efforts!

Peace, love & mungbeans!

Stuart Smith & Rebecca Murray.

Support Local

Lala coffee
SCIENCE + ART = GREAT COFFEE = 18 NZ AWARDS

Roasting great coffee is a mixture of art and science. At Coffee LaLa it begins with careful attention to the complete understanding of our coffee origins. Coffee plantations world wide produce green beans of a character individual to their specific location, soil and climate.
Sol
100% Natural sun protection that works

What started as a small idea has created a fire inside me to be better, do better and produce a sun care range that is safe, effective and doesn’t come at the cost of our environment. We have created low waste plastic free packaging with a closed loop program and ALWAYS are on the hunt on better ways to improve the sustainability of what we choose to use.

Sol has been tried and tested by avid surfers and outdoor enthusiasts. On all kinds of water sports as well as land activities and snow, in many different countries and climates, Australia, New Zealand, Indonesia and Mexico to name a few! The feedback we have received has been amazing, and solidified our mission that you can use a 100% Natural sun protection that works.

Things to do in the Coromandel

Things to do

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Cathdedral Cove
A treasure of sparkling seas & soft sand

Cathedral Cove is a must-do when you are visiting the Coromandel. This hidden bay was featured in the movie ‘The Chronicles Of Narnia’. A stunning coastal walk with breathtaking Coromandel scenery. Accessible only on foot, boat, or kayak.

The marine reserve (Te Whanganui-A-Hei), is less than a 5-minute drive from Hahei a small coastal town.

There are several scenic tracks on land adjacent to the reserve, including the 1.5hr return walk, which gives walking access to Gemstone Bay, Mare’s Leg, and Cathedral Cove.

But the very best way to experience the magic of this place and to discover the secrets of the volcanic coastline from which it is formed is to approach on the water, by boat, or by kayak.
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COROMANDEL COASTAL WALKWAY
One of the best coastal walks in New Zealand

“It’s like walking through a 10km film set!”

This spectacular walk takes 3.5 hours one way and offers the chance to take in the full beauty and solitude of the remote upper Coromandel Peninsula. Stony Bay and Fletchers Bay mark the start and endpoints of the track, and both are hidden jewels in their own right. 

Passing beneath the shadow of brooding Mt Moehau, the track traverses pristine bush, farmland and coastline.

The track follows an easy gradient with a short steep section into and out of Poley Bay. From here, you will head on to farmland where the track leads to Fletcher Bay.

Local guides and drivers provide safe transport along with the stunning Port Jackson, Port Charles and Stony Bay roads. This allows travellers to relax and take in the stunning sights past the last outpost of Colville.

Please note rental cars do not provide insurance beyond Colville. Shuttles and guides are safer, allow for photo stops, provide refreshments, save you time and stress (and often money) on your Coastal Walkway adventure.
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Hahei & Marine Reserve
Hahei Beach is a coastal playground

The Coromandel is home to spectacular underwater seascapes, popular for snorkelling and diving.

Hahei, located on The Coromandel, is an attractive beach fringed with pohutukawa trees and drifts of pink shells at the northern end. The offshore islands provide something of a breakwater, making this sheltered beach ideal for swimming, boating and fishing. The coastline to the north and the offshore islands form the boundaries of a marine reserve, making this a popular destination for diving, snorkeling and kayaking. Reefs, caves, archways and soft sediments provide the ideal habitat for a variety of plants, fish, molluscs and crustaceans.
Cathedral Cove Dive & Snorkel
Snorkel Boat Tours around the islands of Hahei and Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve

Snorkel Boat Tours around the islands of Hahei and Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve, every day over summer and many days through the winter, weather permitting.

Full wetsuits (long arm/long leg) and top-quality snorkel gear provided, along with other floating devices and an instructor/guide available. Allow 1. 5 hours and you will get at least 1 hour in the water getting acquainted with some of our friendly underwater characters – mooching snapper, large rays, colourful fish, crayfish, morays and even the chance of the odd dolphin or seal. Small personal groups and with lots of help for those who have never snorkeled before. Great family fun – we have small warm wetsuits for children – or organise yourself and group outing.

Situated at the base of Cathedral Cove & only 5 minutes from Hot Water Beach, Hahei is the perfect spot to try the PADI Discover Scuba Dive –  Try Dive Experience. Allow 3 hours for tuition and the boat Dive – participants must be able to swim well and be comfortable in deeper ocean water. Learn to PADI Scuba Dive at the stunning Marine Reserve, Coromandel Peninsula. Full training at our PADI Dive Centre. PADI eLearning available.

Snorkelers are welcome on the boat trips, or call into our store in Hahei and grab your snorkel gear, before taking the 5-10 minute walk in.
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Hike the pinnacles
One of the most popular overnight tramping tracks in this area

“If you love hiking I would definitely spend a couple of days in the coromandel forest park.”

One of the most popular overnight tramping tracks in this area is The Pinnacles, located in the Kauaeranga Valley. The Pinnacles climbs through rugged mountain ranges, and the views from the top are nothing short of breathtaking. 

The jagged forested ranges of The Pinnacles form the spine of The Coromandel Peninsula. Explore these ranges on foot with the spectacular Pinnacles Track. An overnight adventure, climb to the summit first thing in the morning to catch the sun rising over 360-degree views of The Coromandel and beyond.

Not for faint-hearted if you’re embarking on this walk in one day. An eight-hour round trip, or can be done as an overnight stay in one of the Pinnacles Huts.

It’ll be well worth the walk when you reach the top and see the spectacular views of The Coromandel Peninsula.

There are numerous tramping tracks and huts available along the way. Check the fitness level and availability.

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Hot water beach
Dig your own hot pool metres from the Pacific Ocean at world-famous Hot Water Beach

A truly unique Kiwi experience that every New Zealander should experience at least once in their lifetime!

Within two hours either side of low tide visitors flock to the usually deserted Hot Water Beach to find hot water bubbling through the golden sand. Families, kids and couples can be seen digging their own spa pool in the sand and relaxing in the natural springs. Often rated as one of the world’s most renowned beaches – this is one experience that should be on your bucket list. A truly unique Kiwi experience that every New Zealander should experience at least once in their lifetime!

The beach also boasts some great surf, cruisy cafés and art galleries and is only a 5-minute drive to another Coromandel ‘must do’ – Cathedral Cove.

Te Puia Surf Co
Surf school based at HWB

For surfers, Hot Water Beach has good beach breaks in moderate easterly swells.

Te Puia Surf Co is about learning to surf in a fun and safe environment.
The idea of our lessons is not only to teach you the skills of surfing but also educate you on the waves, the ocean, the rips & currents – basically, everything about surfing that will help you understand and enjoy the sport and the water. We are out there in the water by your side keeping you safe and giving you tips to help you improve.

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Mercury Islands
A true Pacific adventure playground

“There are so many gorgeous sheltered bays to explore. My favourites are Whaler cove, Peach grove bay, and Sheep bay.”

A true Pacific adventure playground, with sheltered bays to moor your boat for a picnic and swim. The white sand beaches invite castaways and the turquoise waters are a fishing and diving paradise.

Just over an hour’s boat trip from Whitianga wharf, and even closer to Opito and Kuaotunu, the seven islands of the Mercury group lie 8km off the north-eastern coast of The Coromandel.

You can access the islands by boat and sailing charter from Whitianga wharf ( 3hours ).

Legend has it that it was the white cliffs of Great Mercury Island that Māori first saw as they navigated toward Aotearoa.  Certainly, as reflective landmarks, they would have been important coastal navigation aids for early sea travellers.

The spectacular white sand dunes of Peachgrove Bay are visible from quite a distance out, a beacon for boaties heading for the sheltered waters. Great Mercury is the largest island, privately owned and a pest-free sanctuary. If you leave only footprints and pack out all traces of your visit, the owners allow you to land on any of the magnificent white sand beaches to picnic and relax.

The other six islands, Middle, Double, Koropuki, Red Mercury, Stanley and Green are also nature reserves. So collectively the islands in the group are an important and protected habitat for many of New Zealand’s endangered birds. That’s why you are not permitted to go ashore here, rather cruise in close to appreciate their beauty.  These islands are volcanic and rocky, with no sandy beaches, but the dramatic landforms, rock wall, and deep lagoons provide excellent fishing and great dive and snorkel sites

While not officially part of the Mercury Islands, there is a large reef area, rocks and other islands to the south that add to the extraordinary abundance and variety of sea life to be found in this part of the region.

  
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New chum beach
New Zealand’s most beautiful beach - Voted as one of the World’s Top 10 Beaches

‘A slice of Coromandel heaven’

Head to the north end of Whangapoua beach, cross the stream and begin a 30-40 minute walk to the picturesque and untouched coastline of New Chums, also known as Wainuiototo Bay.

Voted as one of the 101 Must Do’s for Kiwis. Hidden away from the masses and rarely explored by Kiwis is the spectacular ‘New Chum Beach’, which ironically has been voted as one of the world’s top 10 beaches! New Chum was also voted 60th of the 101 Must Do’s for Kiwis.

This stunning stretch of golden sand is fringed by Pohutukawa and native forest and is deserted for most of the year.  New Chum beach embodies ‘The Coromandel good for your soul.’ This protected beach has no buildings, no roads, no infrastructure, or camping – it is a jewel in New Zealand’s coastal crown.

You would expect New Chum to reward with a challenging hike, white sand, Instagram views.

Yet it gives so much more than you can imagine.  Time ceases to exist once your feet hit the beach at New Chum.  There is a quality of stillness and silence to this place.  It is a quality that has become so rare in today’s noisy cluttered world, that you may not know you’re craving it until you get there.  New Chum beach, hidden away on The Coromandel is a prehistoric piece of paradise.  It is off the beaten track.  You do have to go out of your way to find it.  But like anything worthwhile, the effort is worth it.  Experience it for yourself.
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Whitianga and Mercury Bay
Indulge in great seafood and enjoy forest walks

The beach town of Whitianga makes an excellent base for explorations of Mercury Bay and the adjacent coast.

If you’re exploring The Coromandel, you’ll soon come to Whitianga – the main town on Mercury Bay. When native forests were being harvested on the peninsula in the 1800s and early 1900s, Whitianga was a timber port. Ships from Europe sailed in to Whitianga’s deepwater harbour to load up with valuable kauri. Today, the township depends on fishing, farming and tourism for its prosperity.