GNZTR - Great New Zealand Touring Route

The famous Cathedral Cove is only accessible only on foot, boat or kayak. Several scenic tracks with vast ocean views follow the coastline adjacent to the reserve, including the 2hr return walk to Cathedral Cove track, which gives access to Gemstone Bay, Mares Leg and Cathedral Cove.

Parking is at the Visitor Car Park on Pa Road as you enter Hahei. During the summer months a shuttle service runs from the visitor car park to the start of the Cathedral Cove track. Alternatively you can walk from the car park around the beach to the start of the track which will take an extra 20mins.

Whangamata is home to one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal attractions. For a long time Whenuakura Wildlife Sanctuary, (often referred to as Donut Island), was a local secret. The pacific treasure is quickly becoming a ‘must do’ New Zealand adventure. Marvel at amazing rock formations as your voice echoes off the cliffs in the cave, then emerge into the small lagoon.

A 2 hour paddle board or kayak tour from the southern end of Whangamata beach will provide historical commentary, ensure safety and protect the land, travellers will need an adequate level of fitness and confidence in the water to complete the return journey.

The Coromandel Coastal Walkway takes in the remote northern part of the Coromandel Peninsula, the last frontier. With rugged isolation, remote beauty and lack of distraction, traversing the northernmost coast is beautiful.

Local guides and drivers provide historic commentary and a safe passage along the stunning Port Jackson, Port Charles and Stony Bay roads. This allows travellers to relax and take in the stunning sights past the last outpost of Colville. From here the road becomes a gravel ribbon along the rocky shoreline with dramatic views into the surrounding ocean.

Hot Water Beach is a truly unique Kiwi experience. Two hours either side of low tide visitors flock to the usually deserted Hot Water Beach to find hot water bubbling through the golden sand. Families, kids and couples can been seen digging their own spa pool in the sand to lie back in and relax while the steam from their hot pool envelops them.

Parking is available in three locations; The Main Beach carpark, Te Waiwai carpark and the Main Store carpark at Hot Water Beach. For those who are not so comfortable going alone, local operators provide fully guided half day and full day tours.

This stunning stretch of golden sand is fringed by Pohutukawa and native forest and is deserted for most of the year, with luck you may witness Orca or Dolphins swimming the length of the beach. This protected beach has no buildings, no roads, no infrastructure or camping - it is a jewel in New Zealand's coastal crown. What better place to restore energy and connect with nature than on a 1 hour and 20 minute return walk.

Whangapoua is the gateway to New Chum beach and is the half way point on a Coromandel road trip - taking the same time to travel via the Thames Coast or Pacific Coast.

Reaching the summit of the Pinnacles should be on the list! The stunning Kauaeranga Valley, located upriver from Thames is one of New Zealand’s true hidden treasures. Of the many popular historic walks in the foothills of the valley, The Pinnacles walk rates as one of New Zealand’s most popular overnighters, with an 80 bed DOC hut often booked out well in advance. The Pinnacles can be walked in one day if you're fit enough. Allow 8 hours to do the loop, transport options are available to pick up and drop off from Thames.