The Coromandel Peninsula - Audley Travel

Coromandel & Pacific Coast
Stretching out into the Pacific both to the
north and to the east, this sprawling
region encompasses unspoiled landscapes
flanked by some of New Zealand’s finest
coastal scenery. Aucklanders flock to the local
beaches to enjoy the sun, surf and sand, and to
relax into the region’s laidback lifestyle.
During the spring much of the bush is set
ablaze with the vivid red bloom of the native
pohutukawa trees, which, set against the rich
green of the forest, the deep blue of the ocean
and the endless golden sands, provide a
spectacle of colour. The communities here are
as colourful as their landscapes, and many
retain a very strong Maori culture: there are
some fantastic examples of Maori carvings,
marae and intricately decorated churches
dotted along the main roads. This is a richly
fertile region, producing vast quantities of
New Zealand’s fruit and encompassing its
oldest wine-growing industry, which now
enjoys international acclaim. Townships vary
from lively holiday resorts to the sleepy
remnants of gold-mining settlements and
impressive Spanish Mission and art deco
creations. There is plenty here to entertain
the mind, as well as ample opportunity to
relax and soak up some of the many hours
of sun this region enjoys.
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The Coromandel Peninsula
Jutting north into the Pacific Ocean, the
Coromandel Peninsula features two beautiful but
contrasting coastlines, encompassing pretty seaside
townships and hidden bays that feel serenely
remote despite their close proximity to Auckland.
Along the Firth of Thames the coast is open and
rocky, much wilder in feel than the tranquil,
protected beaches of the eastern coast. Inland
rugged, volcanic hills are cloaked in thick, native
rainforest. Historically only visited by loggers and
gum-diggers, a gold rush in the late 1800s brought
miners thronging to the area, and many of the
townships display evidence of this lucrative period.
Thames, the gateway to the peninsula, is a prime
example of a once-grand gold rush town that
now simply serves the local farming community.
Thames also marks the edge of the Kauaeranga
Forest Park. Formerly one of the country’s major
sources of kauri timber it was logged for nearly
100 years until supplies were exhausted. It is now
a picturesque wilderness offering walks through
regenerating forest growth, over bubbling streams,
under jagged limestone outcrops and past volcanic
chimneys. Restored heritage architecture, access
to safe, empty beaches, and a wonderfully laidback
lifestyle draw most visitors to the eastern coast,
with only a handful reaching the most northern
points – only accessible by unsealed road – where
the landscape has remained virtually unchanged
for centuries.
COLLEITH LODGE, TAIRUA
With the stunning coastal scenery of the
Coromandel just begging to be explored, Colleith
Lodge provides an ideal base. Each of the three
guest rooms opens onto a private patio area, with
sweeping views over the Tairua estuary, Slipper
Island and the Pacific Ocean - perfect for just
relaxing and breathing in the sea-salt air. The
property has been purpose-built by the hosts
who provide guests with evening drinks and
canapés on the terrace by the pool. For those
who can tear themselves away from
the view, Tairua village and beach are only
a short stroll away.
Cabbage Tree at the tip of the Coromandel Peninsula
Colleith Lodge, Tairua
Hahei & Hot Water Beach
The Te Whanganui-a-Hei Marine Reserve
encompasses a wonderful stretch of Coromandel
coastline, dotted with offshore islands and rock
stacks that protect the calm mainland beaches.
Leading up to the reserve is Hahei Beach, a
glorious stretch of golden sand enjoying a
panoramic vista of the islets. Cathedral Cove is a
30-minute scenic walk from the nearest car park,
but well worth the stroll as you are rewarded
with a fine beach, dominated by a gigantic arched
cavern accessible on foot only at low tide. At Hot
Water Beach thermal waters brew just below the
sand; within two hours either side of low tide you
can dig a hole in the sand and sit in your own
natural spa pool.
Coromandel & Pacific Coast: New Zealand
Telephone: 01993 838 820
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Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Peninsula
Kiwi Dundee Adventures
Both in terms of incredible local knowledge and
immense passion for the area, a day spent with
Doug Johansen (‘Kiwi Dundee’) is unbeatable.
Doug, his partner Jan, and their team of guides
will lead you on a fascinating journey through the
Coromandel Peninsula, explaining history, legend,
flora and fauna, as well as outlining their work
with the Department of Conservation to preserve
and enrich their natural heritage. Visit ancient
Maori Pa sites, fossick for gold and collect shells in
beautiful deserted bays, or explore abandoned
goldmines now illuminated by the gleaming tails of
tiny glow-worms - the options are plentiful. Trips
are tailored around the preferences of the group
and the daily tides, and will genuinely enhance
your appreciation of the diversity and natural
beauty of this part of New Zealand.
Kuaotunu Bay Lodge, Whitianga
Views from Killyrudden, Tairua
KUAOTUNU BAY LODGE,
WHITIANGA
At the most northern point of the Pacific Coast
Highway lies the seaside settlement of Kuaotunu.
Once a thriving gold-mining town, Kuaotunu is
now better known for its pristine sandy bays,
bush walking, horse trekking, and as the starting
point for exploration of the remote northern tip
of the peninsula. Kuaotunu Bay Lodge is perched
above the safe swimming beach, and the guest
rooms open out directly into the gardens, leaving
you free to wander to and from the sea as you
please. There is also a separate self-contained
unit for those seeking a little more independence
or planning a longer stay.
TAIRUA
KILLYRUDDEN BED & BREAKFAST,
Perched high on the edge of Mount Paku,
Killyrudden Bed & Breakfast enjoys a magnificent
location overlooking the Tairua Estuary. Each of
the three guest rooms has access to the elevated
decks. You may choose to lounge in the hot tub,
read a book in one of the hammocks, or stroll
through the beautifully landscaped gardens.
Bay of Plenty
The Bay of Plenty is an area of thriving agriculture
and endless coastline, popular with the Kiwis
themselves, many of whom escape from the
towns to their ‘baches’ along the stretch of coast
between the principal town of Tauranga and the
popular Papamoa Beach. Across Tauranga
harbour the skyline is dominated by the volcanic
cone of Mauao, where a fairly challenging climb is
rewarded with unobstructed views along the
coast. Mount Maunganui, the town at its base, is a
very popular place to celebrate New Year and is
a centre for surf and adventure year round. To
the east is Whakatane and its smaller, seaside
neighbour of Ohope, another sweeping stretch of
empty, golden sand. Off the coast lies the small
but smouldering White Island, New Zealand’s
most active volcano, whose steamy shroud is
clearly visible from all along the Bay’s coast.

Pacific Coast
Highway
This alternative five day self-drive route travels
from Auckland down to Hawke’s Bay and the
wine country. The Pacific Coast Highway avoids
the thermal centre of the North Island and
instead heads off the beaten track, clinging to
the spectacular east coast with its wild beauty.
This is an ideal route for those who have already
visited Rotorua and Lake Taupo and want to
experience a different aspect of the North Island.
The wharf at Tolaga Bay, Eastland
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Depart from Auckland and explore
the Coromandel Peninsula, visiting
the old gold mining centre of
Thames, the magnificent coastal
scenery of Cathedral Cove, and Hot
Water Beach.
Spend a full day exploring the native
rainforest interior with ‘Kiwi Dundee’
before relaxing on a deserted
Coromandel beach.
Drive along the coast of the Bay of
Plenty to Mount Maunganui, climbing
the peak to enjoy the superb
panoramic views.
Journey into the little-visited East
Cape region, where the coastal
scenery becomes dramatic. Travel as
far as Gisborne, the first city to see
the sun each morning.
Opou Country House, Gisborne
Whakaari (White Island)
Volcanic White Island is a designated private
scenic reserve, and can only be visited on
organised trips which we can arrange for you.
Although mined for sulphur extensively in the
early 1900s, it was soon acknowledged that this
unique environment and its endemic species
should be protected. Today, trips take visitors
over by helicopter or boat, and incorporate both
a visit to the old sulphur mining factory and an
exhilarating walk around the crater’s edge,
peering right into its hissing, steaming heart.
Eastland & Gisborne
Stretching out into the Pacific Ocean, the littlevisited
and unspoilt Eastland harbours some of
New Zealand’s most dramatic scenery. As the
Pacific Coast Highway hugs the shore all the way
from Opotiki to Te Araroa, it passes through
tunnels of ancient pohutukawa forest, tiny
settlements rich in Maori culture, and spectacular,
deserted bays. Gisborne, the country’s most
easterly city, is renowned for its long hours of
sunshine and fertile plains, producing many
subtropical fruits and some of the country’s best
chardonnays. The inland route back to Opotiki
climbs steadily up to Matawai, then plunges into
the magnificent Waioeka River Gorge which
runs back down to the Pacific Ocean.
OPOU COUNTRY HOUSE,
GISBORNE
This historic country mansion, set in 5 hectares of
immaculate gardens and surrounded by farmland,
ensures a wonderfully tranquil stay. The five
sumptuous guest suites feature a mix of Asian
and European antiques, carefully fused with the
early New Zealand pieces which have always
been a part of the house. An added draw is the
huge country kitchen where you can enjoy a
glass of wine or a cooking lesson with Robyn,
your host, who delights in welcoming guests into
her home. The local Maori marae is next door,
and, for those who are interested, the elders of
the tribe are more than happy to share their
traditional stories.
Whale Rider Touring
Witi Ihimaera’s acclaimed novel and film brought
the legend of the Maori ancestor Paikea to
international fame. Paikea was one of the royal
sons of Hawaiki, who is said to have come to
New Zealand on the back of a whale, and today
many Maori people can trace their whakapapa or
genealogy to this warrior. Much of the story is set
in Whangara, 29 kilometres north of Gisborne,
where you can take a tour with the tribal elder
and cultural advisor to the film, Hone Taumaunu.
Day 5
Drive on to Napier and the Hawkes
Bay region. Enjoy an afternoon
exploring the wineries on an
escorted tour, thus allowing you
to sample the fine wines without
having to drive.
EXTENSIONS
This remoter part of the country is ideal for those
who want to slow down and savour the delights
of the countryside. A trip out to White Island can
easily be added from the Bay of Plenty, and
several days can be taken over the drive around
the cape. The inland gorge road is a haven for
trampers, as is the beautiful Lake Waikaremoana,
just inland from Hawke’s Bay.
Whakaari (White Island)
Japan Coromandel & Pacific Coast: New Zealand
Telephone: 01993 01869 276 838 220 820
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Autumn in Hawke’s Bay
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Hawke’s Bay
The Hawke’s Bay region, where warm sunny
summers and crisp winter frosts create an arena
perfect for horticulture, is known as the ‘fruit
bowl’ of New Zealand, particularly renowned for
its apples and kiwi fruit. Of greater interest to
most visitors, however, are the many local
wineries. On the fertile plains between Napier
and Hastings lies a veritable treasure trove of
vineyards, producing wines of international quality.
Stretching along the coast, the crescent-shaped
bay and jagged promontory of Cape Kidnappers
was so named by Captain Cook who promptly set
sail after the local Maori attempted to carry off his
translator. It is now home to the world’s largest
and most accessible mainland gannet colony: the
birds can be seen preening, performing their
unique ritual dance of recognition and surfing the
wind currents over the cerulean sea.
Cape Kidnappers
Napier & Hastings
Nowhere else in the world can you see such a
variety of buildings in the style of the 1930s
packed into one place. Much of Napier was
destroyed in a massive earthquake in 1931, and
the town was carefully designed and rebuilt in
art deco style. The added influence of Maori art
and culture is reflected in many of the motifs,
creating an individual style unique to Napier.
This characterful town centre is complemented
by Marine Parade, a glorious waterfront fringed
with Norfolk Pines. In nearby Hastings, hidden
amongst the art deco buildings are some fine
examples of Spanish mission-style architecture.
THE MASTER’S LODGE, NAPIER
If visiting Napier for its famous art deco buildings,
The Master’s Lodge is an unmissable treat. The
hosts have painstakingly created a beautiful,
luxurious property that remains true to the
essence of the art deco period. The rooms are
wonderfully spacious with splendid décor, with
the dining and living areas offering an equally
sumptuous experience, wrapped by a balcony
offering stunning coastal views.
The Master’s Lodge, Napier
NAPIER
COBDEN GARDEN HOMESTAY,
Cobden Garden Homestay is perched above the
town centre in the heart of a delightful residential
suburb of historical houses. Two guestrooms,
one with a large spa bath and the other
traditionally furnished with a Victorian claw bath,
offer a cosy night’s rest. A homemade breakfast
of local produce is served in the breakfast room
or lounge and your hosts welcome you to join
them in the evening for a wine tasting before you
venture out to sample the fine city restaurants.
Art Deco Walk, Napier
There are daily guided walks which take you on
an easy stroll through the fascinating architecture
of the town centre. Your accredited guide will
lead you through the various different art deco
styles, both outside and inside the buildings, giving
you a real insight into this unique heritage.

Wildlife
& Wineries
New Zealand’s international recognition in wine
production is arguably due to the famed
Marlborough region, but the North Island also has
a huge amount to offer in terms of top-class
wineries, from Gisborne chardonnays to Hawke’s
Bay cabernets. Focussing on the central North
Island this itinerary combines some of the best
northern wine growing areas, together with
superb wildlife viewing opportunities.
Greenhill The Lodge, Hawke’s Bay
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
From Auckland travel to Whakatane
in the Bay of Plenty to swim with
the dolphins. Depending on the time
of year you may also see migrating
whales, or encounter fur seals and
penguins.
Drive the scenic Waioeka Gorge
road to Gisborne, and take a trip to
one of the local wineries for a
tasting and dinner.
Skirt the impressive Hawke Bay to
Napier. Take a guided trip out to
Cape Kidnappers on a gannet safari.
Enjoy a day exploring the many
wineries. One option is to travel by
bicycle, a wonderful way to enjoy
the scenery and fresh air.
An example of art deco Napier
BLACK BARN, HAWKE’S BAY
At this unique property, both a working vineyard
and luxurious homestay, you can try being a
‘vintner’ for a while. Guests here are invited to
learn about every aspect of the wine industry, of
which perhaps the most rewarding part - amply
featured - is the sampling process. Surrounded by
grapevines, this rustic property enjoys the feel of
the South of France, but mellowed under the
antipodean sun.
GREENHILL THE LODGE,
HAWKE’S BAY
Set amid 12 hectares of park-like grounds with
views over the rolling green hills of Hawke’s Bay,
this opulent property simply radiates elegance and
grace. Traditional luxury is the order of the day.
Enjoy a fine dining experience accompanied by
award winning Hawke’s Bay wines, then relax
and admire the stars from the comfort of the
beautiful viewing tower, or enjoy a post-dinner
drink in the elegant wood-panelled billiard room.
Modern facilities such as a swimming pool,
gymnasium and spa pool ensure your stay will
be comfortable and private.
Gannets, Cape Kidnappers
Long Island Tours,
Hawke’s Bay
Long Island Tours have been running trips
throughout this region for many years, and have
access to areas which no other operators can
include. Local resident and fount of regional
knowledge, Brigid Ormond, will guide you
through the highlights of the Hawke’s Bay region,
sharing her enthusiasm and insights. There are
unique opportunities to meet fascinating local
characters, including artists in their studios, as well
as exploring the stunning scenery and absorbing
the local history. Amongst other activities you can
experience a powhiri (Maori welcome) with one
of the local tribes, climb the legendary Te Mata
Peak or visit one of the region's many superb
wineries, with time for a tasting.
Day 5
Day 6
Journey south to the pretty town of
Martinborough, and take a walking
tour through the boutique wineries,
most of which are a gentle stroll
from the town centre.
Enjoy a day trip out to Kapiti Island
for a visit to the wildlife sanctuary,
before ending your journey in
Wellington.
EXTENSIONS
For true enthusiasts, this wine and wildlife trail can
be extended into the South Island, where the
highlights of Marlborough and the Kaikoura coast
await. At many of the wineries, structured tours
and tasting sessions are available, giving you an
insight into the workings of a leading vineyard.
Accommodation options are also available at
many of the vineyards, allowing you to wake
to the sun rising over the vines.
TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL
Our tailor-made journeys offer complete freedom
of choice. The itineraries and accommodation
shown are designed to give you a flavour of what
is possible and can be tailored to suit your
preferences. Prices vary according to selected
accommodation and season, please telephone us
to discuss your individual requirements.
Black Barn, Hawke’s Bay
Japan Coromandel & Pacific Coast: New Zealand
Telephone: 01993 01869 276 838 220 820
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