Discovery Campervans New Zealand

The Colour And Creativity Of The Coromandel

Want to know where all the New Zealander's go to holiday? The answer is Coromandel, a beautiful region of the country's North Island. Coromandel is home to natural beauty, misty rainforests and long, golden beaches, making it the ultimate holiday destination for locals and tourists alike!

The Coromandel is framed by native Pohutukawa trees in the west, untouched, sandy beaches in the east, and is divided by mountain ranges cloaked in lusciously green native forest. In total, there is 400 kilometres of stunning coastline, which means that you should put aside at least a week in order to fully explore this amazing region.

Its location within an hour and a half of the major centres of Auckland and Hamilton means that you can pick up your campervan rental from Auckland Campervan Hire New Zealand, and then easily start your exploration. Although this is only a short distance, Coromandel seems like a whole world away and is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. It is regarded as a 'walker's paradise' with a range of trails to explore, from short coastal walks to multi-day treks. There are also historical points of interest around every corner, making the Coromandel a richly colourful and creative hub.

The Coromandel offers a distinctive blend of experiences, with hundreds of natural hideaways just waiting to be uncovered. To help with starting your itinerary, here are some of the peninsula's most stunning attractions that you simply cannot miss while visiting.

Thames/Thames Coastal Road

The township of Thames is known as the 'Gateway to the Coromandel' and is situated only a 90 minute drive from Auckland. Thames is the main shopping destination within Coromandel, making it the commercial hub of the region.

Thames was founded as a pioneer town, with the main industries of gold and Kauri logging sustaining the community. This colourful history can be seen as you wander the colourful streets that are lined with many heritage buildings, pubs and museums. While in town be sure to check out the historical museum, the War Memorial Monument and trek Rocky's Goldmine Trail. In fact, there is so much to do here that you may never want to leave.

Campervans New Zealand will allow you to take the stunning drive down the Thames Coastal Road. The scenic drive will take you right along the coast, while you enjoy the stunning sand beaches and eventually, the Rapaura Water gardens at Tapu.

Coromandel Town and Colville

The town of Coromandel enjoys a relaxed and laid back atmosphere, that allows for a rejuvenation of the mind, body and soul. The tranquil atmosphere and beautiful natural surrounds will simply take your breath away and make you want to stay here forever. It is the perfect place to discover the hidden bays and harbours of the Coromandel, along with the restored, heritage architecture that makes this area so quaint.

A little way down the road, you will come across the small community of Colville Town. This quiet country town serves the arts and farming industries well and is the perfect place to escape to for a relaxed afternoon out!

Whitianga and Mercury Bay

On the east coast of the Coromandel, you will find Mercury Bay, and within it, the main, established tourist town of Whitianga. This particular piece of coastline is dotted with many islands and the sheltered waters of the hidden bays are perfect for every single water sport imaginable. Other natural attractions in the area include Hot Water Beach, Cathedral Cove, Cooks and Buffalo beaches and the Whitianga Wharf. If you are seeking to find the best that the seaside has to offer, than you simply cannot go past Mercury Bay.

Waihi/ Waihi Beach

Known as New Zealand's 'Heart of Gold', Waihi is one of the most famous gold mining towns in the country. Escaping here for a day or two in your campervan will allow you to get back in touch with the simple life. Waihi Beach is the area's main attraction and stretches for a total of 9 kilometres. It eventually links to the Tauranaga Harbour, and really is the perfect place to relax and take it easy, take a refreshing dip or engage in a range of fun and exciting water sports.

Coromandel offers a truly unique and distinctive blend of natural experiences that are sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated, at peace and ready for anything. Not only is this area the favourite spot for the locals, but it is sure to be yours soon too!

Christine Barton