This region was once sought for gold mining (gold was discovered in 1852 and in 1900s most mines were closed down), but now with a relaxed lifestyle, stunning sand beaches and outdoor activities no wonder it is a popular holiday spot.

The two main attractions can be found on the beach: Cathedral Cove and Hot Water Beach

Cathedral Cove

Location: It is only accessible by boat or on foot from Hahei, Grange Road

Hot Water Beach – opportunity to dig your own hot pool

This beach has two volcanic hot springs, which means you can dig your own hot pool, so bring a spade/shovel along or hire it from local cafe. It’s important to check the tide tables as digging for hot springs is not possible in high tides! The hot springs are just opposite of the rocks (as shown in a picture) and YES it is a tourist attraction so expect a lot of people.

Tide tables: Here

Warning: swimming can be dangerous because of riptides.

Visited: 2009

Mt Paku – stunning lookout
It took only 10-15 minutes to climb it up.
Location: From Tairua, through Paku Drive to Tirinui Crescent.

Waterworks theme park – attractions powered by water
Location: The 309 Road, in the Waiau Valley, about 10 minutes by car from Coromandel Town. Only two minutes from the road there is also Waiau waterfall.

Abseiling and two Zip-lines

Seven abseils, one up to 80 metres high and another one through waterfall, two zip-lines, water slide and cliff jump…. that’s what I call adventure of lifetime.

Location: The Sleeping God Canyon is located near Thames in the Kauaeranga valley on the Coromandel Peninsula.
Visited: 5.1.2013

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