7 TOP COROMANDEL MUST-DO'S

All the happy vibes of a holiday, 365 days of the year – try not to be too jealous of the locals. Every seaside pleasure is amplified here, with scores of spectacular beaches, all as impressive as the next, and every means imaginable to relax and unwind. Don’t bother with shoes; bare toes and jandals will suffice.

© AA Traveller 2021

1. Driving Creek Railway

Ride on New Zealand's only narrow-gauge mountain railway, ascending to the 'Eyefull Tower' for jaw-dropping views across the Hauraki Gulf. Afterward, enjoy a walk in the sculpture garden and native sanctuary, then learn how the railway was built.

2. New Chum Beach

Secret Beach - With no road access and zero commercialisation, reaching remote New Chum Beach requires a scramble over the rocks and a 30-minute bush walk. The trees will open to reveal a white-sand paradise.

3. The Lost Spring

Sink into thermal waters at adult-orientated Lost Spring Spa. With fluffy white towels, a full cocktail list, a la carte menu and luxury spa treatments, it’s just the ticket.

4. Cathedral Cove

Walk the easy 90-minute amble to Cathedral Cove and its famed archway, accessible only by foot or by boat. The nearest town is Hahei, from where you can also depart (allow an extra 20 minutes).

Cathedral Cove, Coromandel © Adobe Stock

5. Hot Water Beach

Ten minutes by car from Hahei. Dig yourself a nature-made jacuzzi. For two hours either side of low tide, make a hole into the sand and watch the hot water rise up.

6. Shorebird Coast

Grey Heron, Miranda wetlands © AATP

7. Karangahake Gorge Historic Walkway

This historic railway walk is just an eight-minute drive from Paeroa. The Rail Tunnel Loop is 45 minutes return whereas the Historic Walkway to Waikino is four hours. Both tracks absorb the stunning gorge, gold-mining relics, steel bridges and 1km rail tunnel.

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