Things to do in Coromandel Region

The Coromandel region in New Zealand is a mountainous peninsula with beautiful white sandy beaches. Only hour and a half drive from the main cities of Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga, Coromandel is the famous tourists’ destination. Metropolitans from these cities often choose to relocate in Coromandel to enjoy the alternative lifestyle away from the commotion of the big cities.

The Coromandel region offers a unique blend of activities for the visitors. There are many things you can do in Coromandel. The activities here include boat rides, diving, fishing, sailing, snorkeling, sea kayaking, and horse riding. The misty rainforests, gold mine attractions, rich cultural heritage, and Pohutukawa (the red native flowering tree) lined coves and harbors are some of the most visited places in Coromandel.

The Driving Creek Railway and Potteries always tops the list of things to do activities in Coromandel. In earlier days Driving Creek was the hippy potter’s community, trains used to bring the raw material for them. It is a major tourist attraction now, with various pottery and art shops selling souvenirs. A trip to the awesome ‘Eyefull Tower’, in a passenger train, that takes you to the hillside through tunnels and bridges is another highlight of the region.

Coromandel Town, also called as the art center of the region is one of the most visited spot amongst tourists. Visitors throng the exhibit of world class paintings, sculpture, carving in stone and bone. Art lovers can visit art studios and buy quality work directly from the artists. Coro Do festival for art and entertainment, on Labour Day weekend ranks favorite among the things to do in Coromandel. Also famous is the Keltic Fair, the largest one day event celebrated on January 2nd every year. With over 300 stalls for food, music, and entertainment it keeps the tourists and locals enthralled with endless activities.

Coromandel with its collection of camping grounds and holiday parks offer real fun for travelers who enjoy camping holidays. For individual and group travelers there is a widest choice of tent, cabin and campervan to choose from.

With many small islands, Coromandel region offers many interesting water activities. Fishing, boating, sailing and diving are popular activities here. Mussel Barge Snapper Safaris run many trips per day. The ancient extinct volcanoes in Coromandel covered with temperate rainforests, make them ideal for trekking. These forests have the tallest fern trees in the world.

A visit to Fletcher Bay, on the Coromandel Coastal Walkway with its spectacular view of the ocean is another popular outing in Coromandel. Besides Thames, the biggest town in Coromandel; Whangamata, Whitianga, Tairua & Pauanui, Waihi and Cathedral Cove are the other most visited places in Coromandel.

There is so much to offer in Coromandel, which can make your trip a life time experience.