| 
| 
| 
| 
| 
| 
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
auckland - coromandel AUCKLAND - COROMANDEL (via Thames) Driver Information This 9 day tour brings you the best of The Great New Zealand Touring Route, which explores the central North Island, following two signposted touring routes; the Pacific Coast Highway and the Thermal Explorer Highway. Your self-drive tour starts with The Pacific Coast Highway, which covers the drive from Auckland, through the Coromandel and Whakatane, to Napier. However, for day 1 it is just a short, easy scenic drive into Coromandel town, where you can spend the afternoon and next morning exploring the area. Some notable stops along the route to Coromandel township include: CLEVEDON VALLEY BEACHSIDE SETTLEMENTS MIRANDA HOT SPRINGS PIPIROA THAMES COROMANDEL Coromandel township with its well-preserved Victorian building is a pretty place to enjoy your overnight stay, however we do suggest you book your accommodation in advance during the busy summer period. Highly recommended Coromandel tourist attractions include... Coromandel Museum - A good opportunity to gain some interesting insight into Coromandel town's history of gold, kauri and farming. Driving Creek Railway - A remarkable train ride on the world-class mountain railway. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and passes through breath-taking Kauri forests and climbs to the Eyefull Tower with its stunning panoramic views. Cathedral Cove - This is a 'must do' for New Zealand and international visitors to the Coromandel. Accessible only on foot or by boat, the famous Cathedral Cove track begins at the northern end of Hahei. Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve covers 9 square kilometres and is New Zealand’s sixth marine reserve. Waiau Waterworks - A totally unique light-hearted experience located in a garden, where whimsical wonders are worked by water! Great for all the family with plenty of interactive displays, playground, swimming holes and much more in a lovely, relaxed garden setting with cafe. Castle Rock Winery - Boutique winery and cafe using organically grown produce when possible to create a range of approximately 30 different varieties of wine. Daily wine tastings available plus traditional old fashioned style jams, jellies, pickles, chutneys and sauces. Other local attractions are plenty! Including sea fishing charters, craft tours, horse back riding, sailing charters, beaches, beauty spas and fabulous scenic walks. The Coromandel Township offers a great range of accommodation, including camping grounds and luxury lodges. Restaurants and cafes offer a range of fresh produce to meet most tastes and budgets. |
Travel distance is approximately 166kms (104 miles).
Kawakawa Bay, Orere Point and Kaiaua are all beachside settlements you must visit for some great photo opportunities and a chance to dip your toes into the fabulous surt.