3 minute read
Explore The Coromandel & Shorebird Coast
SWAP LIFE IN THE FAST LANE FOR SOMETHING A LITTLE MORE SEDATE. THE COROMANDEL IS THE ULTIMATE PLEASURE PENINSULA.
If you need respite from the go-go-go, The Coromandel provides escapism by the bucket-load. From long stretches of near-empty beach to vast expanses of water peppered with pleasure boats, if you’re truly looking to disconnect, The Coromandel is the kind of place where you can live in your togs and live out your dreams.
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With so many spectacular natural surroundings, hideaways exist on idyllic beaches such as New Chum. Discover the world-class surf break and white-sand beach of Whangamata; charge to the top of the Pinnacles; build your own sea-fronting hot tub and stare into a huge open gold pit just minutes from Waihi. You can explore remnants from a prosperous gold-mining history and follow an art trail forged by creatives. If it’s driving that you’re longing to ditch, those departing Auckland can catch a scenic two-hour ferry from Downtown to Coromandel Town.
With 400km of coastline and a swarm of offshore islands, The Coromandel is one of New Zealand’s favourite aquatic playgrounds. Fishing communities are rife, so book a full day of angling or charter a boat to the tropical droplets of Slipper, Shoe and Aldermen Islands. Whatever you choose, embrace the tempo change.
VISIT THE SHOREBIRD COAST
The Shorebird Coast covers the western shoreline of the Firth of Thames with the number of birds flocking to this wetland often exceeding 10,000. The birdwatching is therefore world-class. Pop into Pūkorokoro Miranda Shorebird Centre beforehand to get up to speed with its vast and various species. Don’t miss Miranda Hot Springs with three pools of varying heat and one that stretches a whopping 47 metres in length.
Grey heron, Miranda wetlands
AATP
Another must-do would be the Shorebird Coast’s succulent seafood. While locals are often seen collecting shellfish for a home-cooked meal, nearby restaurants serve equally fresh morsels.
HIGHLIGHTS
KAIAUA: The pretty seaside town of Kaiaua has a safe family beach, excellent fish and chips at Kaiaua Fisheries and popular ice creams at The Pink Shop.
THE HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL has recently been extended to join Kaiaua with Thames so you can enjoy an easy 50km ride observing birdlife and wetland.
What to do in the Hauraki Plains
Follow the trail of hardy pioneers and explore gold-mining relics in the Hauraki Plains, then stop for the obligatory pic with a seven-metre L&P bottle on Paeroa’s main street. From here it’s just another 20km to Waihi, home to the country’s richest gold mine and an equally dazzling white-sand beach.
While you're here, why not check out these other highlights:
HAURAKI RAIL TRAIL
Dubbed one of the easiest bike rides in the country and suitable for all ages and fitness levels, set aside two to three days for a scenic spin through gold towns and train tunnels beaming with glowworms. Other highlights include the gorgeous Karangahake Gorge.
PAEROA MARITIME PARK & MUSEUM
Understand the importance of New Zealand’s maritime history and then jump aboard the Tamati, a lovingly restored kauri paddleboat which will escort you up the river.
NGĀTEA WATER GARDENS
Immaculate gardens scattered with ducks, ponds and humour. There are dilapidated row boats offering ‘cheap rates’ and fairy tale castles stating: ‘No witches, sorcerers or insurance salesmen’.
PAEROA
Where the soft drink L&P (Lemon & Paeroa) was born and is still being made. Take a snap with the 7-metre-high replica bottle and then nip into the town’s museum or visit the riverside Maritime Park for history and paddleboat rides.
Owharoa Falls, Hauraki Rail Trail
Destination Coromandel
ABOVE MAIN IMAGE: Karangahake Gorge reflection © Destination Coromandel
