The winter weather might be rolling in, but that doesn’t mean we’re not going to make the most of it. This special New Zealand peninsula is a playground of land, water, drinking, eating and general happy activities—and there’s an abundance of beauty to discover during the cooler months.
Although the Coro is a regular stomping ground for Aucklanders, there’s plenty of hidden treasures to uncover for locals and visitors. Mind-blowing beaches aside, The Coromandel offers a huge range of activities, many of which are perfect to conquer once winter rolls around.
Sound like a bit of you? Great. Here are 30 epic things to do in the Coromandel this winter.
- Soak in your own hand-dug hot pool at Hot Water Beach.
- Have a classic kiwi Tip Top ice cream at one of the many beach dairies.
- Hunt for one-of-a-kind treasures at Paeroa's vintage shops.
- Watch the sky twinkle with Whitianga’s Stargazers. They’re kitted out with an observatory and offer fascinating astronomy tours.
- Lap up the rays at one of the world’s prettiest beaches—New Chums.
- Cathedral Cove. You haven’t done a The Coromandel properly until you experience this special spot.
- Go for a kayak while you’re there. It’s one of the best places to kayak in New Zealand.
- Fish and chips. All day, err’day. We hear Coromandel Takeaways is a winner.
- Take a roadie over the historic 309 Road, a 22-kilometre gravel road between Coromandel Town and Whitianga.
- Tuck into woodfired pizzas and ice-cold beer at Luke’s Kitchen in Kuaotunu.
- At the southern end of the Coromandel Peninsula you’ll find Karangahake Gorge. Check out the gold mining remnants and famous swing bridge.
- Climb the 7 million year-old volcano of Mt Paku for epic views over Tairua and the harbour.
- Go for a scenic stroll to the Wentworth Falls for a refreshing dip.
- Get a slice of quintessential Coromandel in Hahei.
- Slap on that wetsuit and learn to catch aaaalll the shakas in Whangamata. It’s a great place for kooks to catch some waves.
- Hop on the Driving Creek Railway where you’ll see quirky pottery murals and awesome views of the gulf and mountains.
- Feast on fresh mussels and oysters The Coromandel Oyster Company. Om nom nom!
- Take a selfie in front of the Giant L&P bottle. Just ‘cos.
- Conquer the Pinnacles. Not going to lie, you’ll feel the booty burn but the view will be worth the pain. They’ve also got a great hut to rest your weary head (make sure you book well in advance).
- Treat yo’self to a spa day at The Lost Spring. Their massage treatments will get rid of any work stress and we’re sure the hot pools and cocktails will help, too.
- Indulge in a couple of tipples and a platter at Coromandel Brewing Company’s Pour House in Hahei.
- Get the comforts of an Auckland brunch at Waihi Beach Hotel. Their brunch game is legit strong.
- Sample tasty vino in the sunshine at Karangahake Winery Estate.
- Visit Whenuakura aka. Donut Island, a secret spot near Whangamata. Just don’t say that we told you.
- On ya bike and cycle the Hauraki Rail Trail. It’s completely flat and also known as one of the easiest cycle trails in New Zealand so even cycle novices will be a-OK.
- Dust of that tent and put it to good use. There are loads of beaut camping spots but Opoutere Beach is always a goodie.
- Still not keen on the camping scene? Lonely Bay Lodge has got you covered.
- Get up close and personal with wildlife at Mill Creek Bird Park and Animal Encounters, home to more than 400 birds. The kids will love it and you will, too!
- Put on those walking shoes and tackle the spectacular Coromandel Coast Walkway. This 10-kilometre is in the remote part of the Coromandel offering epic views, native bush and beautiful bays. Don’t forget to block up!
Want More?
- The Thrill-Seeker’s Guide To New Zealand
- Beautiful Road Trips To Take This Weekend
- 8 New Zealand Camping Trips To Book Now
Image Credit: The Coromandel