Explore nature and give back in The Coromandel
Ready for a holiday? Enjoy a sustainable escape in The Coromandel
It’s easy to see why The Coromandel is such a classic Kiwi holiday spot. It’s got valleys criss-crossed with hiking trails and pristine golden beaches lapped by glassy, inviting waters. The warm welcome from locals and the incredible food doesn't hurt either.
That’s why we love discovering local businesses dedicated to providing unforgettable experiences, while preserving the incredible natural environment that makes this place so special. Check out these sustainable stays and experiences that are good for your soul (and good for the planet) in The Coromandel.
Unforgettable eco-experiences
Driving Creek has NZ’s steepest working railway.
Driving Creek has NZ’s steepest working railway.
Driving Creek
We guarantee you've never experienced anything quite like Driving Creek. This 24 hectare property is home to a pottery workshop, zipline, large fenced conservation area and NZ’s steepest working railway.
Don’t miss the zipline tour, where you’ll soar over ferns and Kauri trees, while learning how Driving Creek was transformed from a gold mine into a conservation hub.
Sea Cave Adventures
Te Whanganui-O-Hei (Cathedral Cove) Marine Reserve boasts 25km of coastal cliffs and caves, shallow water coral reefs, and incredibly abundant marine life. The best way to see this natural wonder is with Sea Cave Adventures.
Local guides Ash & Shona will take you on a tour of the coastline venturing inside several sea caves in their purpose-built vessel. All tours include Māori history and photo opportunities!
Canyonz
Feeling Adventurous? Canyonz Sleeping God experience starts at the top of a 300 metre tall canyon in the dramatic Kauaeranga Valley and finishes (you guessed it) at the bottom.
You’ll make the descent by jumping, sliding and abseiling, all the while enjoying cool swimming holes and beautiful scenery. These are small group tours, approved by the Department of Conservation.
Shorebird Centre
Just half an hour from Auckland, the Miranda Shorebird Centre is a bird watcher’s dream. Come two hours either side of high tide, when the birds are at their busiest and you may spot almost half the world’s population of Wrybill, an amazing annual migration of Godwits, and up to 10,000 birds in total.
Must-do experiences
If you’re up for a little exercise try the Hauraki Rail Trail. This 1 to 5 day adventure is one of NZ’s easiest Great Rides, taking in miles of native bush, historic railways and mind blowing scenery. For an aquatic adventure, visiting Cathedral Cove from the water is a must-do. You’ll see the epic volcanic coastline with sea caves and blowholes and get up close to the wildlife in the marine reserve. Book a boat or kayak tour with a local operator and don’t forget your snorkel gear!
Hot Water Beach is another visitor’s favourite - famed for the naturally heated mineral water that bubbles up from its sands around low tide. Dig yourself a hot pool and watch the sunset, for the classic Hot Water Beach experience.
Miranda Shorebird Centre is a bird watcher’s dream.
Miranda Shorebird Centre is a bird watcher’s dream.
Hot Water Beach
Hot Water Beach
Cathedral Cove from the water is a must-do. You’ll see the epic volcanic coastline with sea caves and blowholes and get up close to the wildlife in the marine reserve.
Food that’s good for you (& the environment)
Falls Retreat
Deep in the Karangahake Gorge there’s a hidden retreat, where you can dine on delicious farm-to-plate produce and stay in a luxurious wilderness cottage. The Falls Retreat Bistro is the highlight, serving seasonal degustation & a la carte menus, with produce harvested from their onsite farm.
The Wharf Cafe & Bar
On Shortland Wharf in Thames you’ll find The Wharf, an iconic cafe and bar with panoramic sea views and fish fresh from the sea. Grab a picnic table on the deck over the water, order some fresh line caught fish and an ice cold beer then spend an afternoon in the sun.
Coromandel Oyster Company
On the main highway into Coromandel Town you’ll find a quaint little oyster shack, the perfect stop to start or end your holiday on a high note. This wee shack serves oysters and mussels that are sustainably farmed from the farm out back - fresh or fried.
Our advice? Grab the legendary oyster sliders and a paua fritter and thank us later.
Hot Water Brewing Company
Just minutes away from the eponymous beach, Hot Water Brewing crafts small batch beer using mainly NZ hops. If you visit Coromandel you’d be rude not to stop by and try their creations fresh from the tap, soak up the sun in their expansive garden and perhaps taste a few of their woodfired pizzas. Finish with a dessert pizza with blueberry, white chocolate and cream cheese if you have room for it!
Sustainable luxury
Earthbridge
Earthbridge is a country cottage hidden in the heart of nature, deep in the scenic Maratoto Valley. It’s nestled in lush native bush, surrounded by a vibrant garden and the crystal clear Maratoroto River, with a cosy fireplace for winter, and a conservatory for catching the sun. The best part? It’s completely off grid, allowing you to truly get away from it all.
Tangiaro Kiwi Retreat
Near the foot of the Moehau Range a little river trickles through untouched native bush, passing by a cluster of nine luxury chalets. Stay here and chances are you’ll hear the call of one of 50 kiwis that live in the area - just keep your ears open while walking down the stream to the swimming hole, hiking the range or enjoying dinner at the lodge’s bar and restaurant.
Shelly Beach Top 10
If you want absolute beachfront accommodation for less, Shelly Beach Top 10 Holiday Park is perfect. They’ve got powered and unpowered camping sites, glamping pods, self-contained units and motel rooms right on the shores of Kikowhakarere Bay, just a few minutes from Coromandel Town.
Sunlover Retreat
There’s a reason Sunlover Retreat is placed in the top 1 per cent of accommodation on Tripadvisor. These luxurious one and two bedroom suites have breathtaking views from their wrap-around decks, and rooms thanks to their position high above the Tairua Harbour. When you visit make sure you treat yourself to a sunset hot tub with a drink in hand!
Cathedral Cove
Cathedral Cove
Want to discover more experiences that are good for your soul? Head to www.thecoromandel.com to get inspired and start planning your next adventure.
Please travel safely and check guidance at https://covid19.govt.nz/ for requirements in the region you're travelling to.
Built with Shorthand