The Coromandel, renowned for its pristine beaches, misty forests and laid-back vibe, is one of New Zealand's most popular holiday destinations. Renowned for its natural beauty, green pastures, misty rainforests and pristine golden beaches, The Coromandel is blessed with hundreds of natural hideaways, making it an ideal place to escape. ​

A binocular’s view across the gulf from Auckland, The Coromandel is everything that a big city isn’t. With a mountainous interior cloaked in native rainforest and more than 400 kilometres of dazzling white sand beaches, it is rustic, unspoiled and relaxed. Marvel at the spectacular views and the ever-changing landscape as we stop en route to take magical photos.​

Nestled amongst regenerating native forest near Coromandel Town is Driving Creek Railway, a narrow-gorge mountain trail lined with unique and colourful pottery. It’s all aboard as you enjoy a scenic one hour train ride up to the ‘Eyefull Tower’, where colossal views stretch out over the Hauraki Gulf and Islands.  1-hour train ride that includes 2 spirals, 3 short tunnels, 5 reversing points and several large viaducts as it climbs up the hill to the Eyefull Tower. At the top, you will be fascinated by the panoramic views over the island-studded Hauraki Gulf.​

Cathedral Cove is arguably one of the most picturesque spots in The Coromandel. From the north end of the beach, a one hour walking track leads along the cliff top and then descends to the Cove. Here a gigantic arched cavern passes through a white rock headland to join two secluded coves. The cathedral-like arch gives the whole area an air of grandeur. The beach is sandy with shady pohutukawa trees along the foreshore - a perfect place for a picnic and a swim.​

Deep within the earth a natural spring runs beneath Hot Water Beach, bubbling up to emerge through the sand in the form of naturally heated mineral water. At the southern end of the beach, it’s possible to dig your own hot pool in the sand. Relaxing in your own spa pool meters from the Pacific Ocean is a very unique feeling!

​After a fun-filled scenic experience at the Coromandel, it is now time to head back to Auckland.