Coromandel Peninsula Holidays

Holidays in the Coromandel Peninsula take you to one of New Zealand’s most remarkable destinations. Located just a short drive from Auckland on the South Island, it’s a place of deep rainforests, sunlit mountain ranges, and breath-taking palm-fringed beaches.

Sea and sand are the main attraction for many on a Coromandel Peninsula holiday. The Bay of Plenty is ringed with lively bars and buzzy restaurants, as well as plenty of opportunities to relax. Nearby Hot Water Beach is named for its hot springs beneath the sand, which rise between low and high tide. If you dig down a couple of feet you can create your own personal hot spring. For ultimate tranquillity, New Chum Beach is a pristine curve of sand accessible only by boat or on foot. It’s well worth the extra effort to get here.

Coromandel Peninsula holidays: New Zealand at its best

Between the Coromandel Mountains and Kamai Mountains is the Karangahake Gorge. You can walk the river, swim beneath the Owharoa Falls and stay in charmingly rustic hotels. Feeling adventurous? Take on Sleeping God Canyon, a 300 metre run down a sheer rock face. Alternatively, brave the Pinnacles – a challenging overnight walk in the Coromandel Forest Park that follows the old logging trails. You’ll spend the night in communal accommodation at the peak, waking up to a view you’ll remember forever.

Less than two hour’s drive north of Coromandel Peninsula is Cathedral Bay, which gets its name from the vast cave and rock formations along its length. You can’t miss the looming White Island – an active volcano off the coast. Arriving by boat, you’ll step directly into the crater. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience nature’s raw power.

Holidaying in the Coromandel Peninsula is all about enjoying the great outdoors. Whether you love scuba diving, fishing, hiking or star-gazing you’ll have endless opportunities to pursue your passions.