Cathedral Cove is The Coromandel's poster boy. Photo / thecoromandel.com
Cathedral Cove is The Coromandel's poster boy. Photo / thecoromandel.com
Destination of the Week: The Coromandel
Why you should go:
The Christmas break is nearly here and there's only one thing on everyone's lips: summer road trip. No matter who you have in your passenger seat, there's something to satisfy in The Coromandel. The views are sigh-inducing, the rainforest isetched with nature walks and the oceanside vibes send endorphins into overdrive.
The Pinnacles hike is an eight-hour overnight challenge. Photo / Jack Austin @jackaustinphotography
Cathedral Cove is the peninsula's poster boy. Bounce your way there on a banana boat or follow the walkway from Hahei Beach – pack your snorkels and stop en route at family-friendly Gemstone Bay Snorkel Trail. Nature enthusiasts won't want to miss migrating birds on the Shorebird Coast and achievement seekers should take on The Pinnacles hike. It's an eight-hour overnighter but worth it for epic sunrise views. For R&R, The Lost Spring is an oasis of geothermal pools, or you can build your own at Hot Water Beach. Insta-famous hotspots include secluded New Chum Beach and Whenuakura Wildlife Sanctuary (Donut Island), a droplet of Utopia best experienced on a guided two-hour SUP board or kayak tour.
Whenuakura Wildlife Sanctuary is best experienced on a guided tour. Photo / thecoromandel.com
Save space for a monster 10-scoop ice cream from Kūaotunu Store. Photo / Anna Sarjeant
Best eats:
Luke’s Kitchen in Kūaotunu has an almost cult-like following for its woodfired pizza, and you’ll want to save space for a monster 10-scoop ice cream from neighbouring Kūaotunu Store. The latter will cost you less than $10. For local delicacies, pick up Coromandel Pacific Oysters, mussels and fresh fish burgers from Coromandel Oyster Company, just six minutes by car from Coromandel township.
Pick up fresh Coromandel Pacific Oysters from Coromandel Oyster Company. Photo / Supplied
