COROMANDEL & '309' ROAD

During the Easter break I decided it was time to give the Coromandel region a visit, a wonderful destination unfortunately left out from my initial discoveries of New Zealand last December.

Before heading to Thames, closest gateway to the region from Auckland, I took a slight detour to Matatoki Cheese Farm to say hi to the goats, rabbits and chickens, and couldn't resist buying some award winning cheese from the farm. Delicious, and slightly cheaper than buying at the supermarket. I would have stayed to sample the platter available from the little cafe on-site but decided to press on.

Matatoki Cheese Farm - with Billy

In Thames I stopped for a much needed beer, and on a beautiful day, as it was, I sat outside and contemplated the hills and mountains ahead. I was only 14km away from the Coromandel Peninsula Forest Park, and with the array of bush walks available (as well as very peaceful D.O.C campsites), tramping was going to be the first activity on the list.

The jungle like setting is incredible, and knowing that there are no dangerous animals or insects out there makes the walking really enjoyable. I did not make it to the Pinnacles, the highest point at 759m, but was not dissatisfied with the views I managed to capture. At night, the sound of the river flowing right behind the campervan made it all the more tranquil.

Coromandel Peninsula Forest Park

My next stop was Hot Water Beach in Hahei, so called for the little pools you are able to dig when the tide is out, and have your very own thermal tub! It remains a rough swimming spot though, so take every precaution if you are to enter the waters.

Much recommended also is the famous Cathedral Cove beach. Make sure you head out there in the morning or mid-afternoon, as it takes 45-50 minutes to get there. It is mostly downhill, and the walk back can be quite tiring, but the beauty of this beach makes the pain worthwhile! The natural cave formation is breathtaking, allowing for great photo opportunities; it also breaks the beach into two spaces. Left of the cave are interesting rock formations, which you may have seen in the chronicles of Narnia!

Cathedral Cove

Sit back, relax, and take in one of New Zealand's most awesome beach. Remember to take plenty of water and a snack as there are no shops nearby...

I had read about the '309' Road in my Lonely Planet, and thought it would make ideal road trip material to reach Coromandel Town. I was not disappointed! This 20km stretch, half road half gravel, offers distinctive scenery at every turn. Dotted along are also quirky stop-overs, including a honey shop, Waiau Falls, Kauri Grove (I'll let you discover the rest). Again, the surrounding countryside, pine forests and native bush give a real explorer sense!

'309' Road

The reward at the end of that treacherous road is a nice filling meal at The Coromandel Mussel Kitchen. Fresh, original recipes for delicious green-lipped mussels and crusty bread. Did I mention they cultivate, harvest, cook and serve the mussels themselves? That should seal it for you!

Creamy kumara and sweetcorn mussels

GO Explore!

For more information about the Coromandel region and activities, come and see me at 172 Quay Street.
Stephanie