Art meets nature
The hidden treasures of Coromandel
Journey up the meandering coastal road bordering the Firth of Thames and the west coast of Coromandel Peninsula, and you’ll reach a historic town of heritage wooden buildings, and a strong focus on locally-sourced seafood.
Beyond excellent eating in Coromandel town, there are rail and zipline adventures in a native forest, idiosyncratic art and further roadtripping adventures on the way north to sleepy Colville.
Morning Wake up refreshed at Hush Boutique Accommodation
Surrounded by native forest a short drive from the town of Coromandel, Hush Boutique Accommodation makes an ideal base for exploring the region. The good-value studio cottages are rustic, but very comfortable and the gentle stream running through the property creates a peaceful ambience. A shared barbecue, kitchen and al fresco dining area is available. You can also look forward to hearing and seeing lots of local birdlife. 425 Driving Creek Rd
Breakfast at Wharf Road Cafe
The town’s most cosmopolitan cafe is best enjoyed in the spacious and sunny courtyard out the back. Good coffee combines with interesting breakfast dishes – try the Turkish-style cilbir eggs with yoghurt and chilli butter, while Middle Easterninfluenced flatbreads and turmeric-spiced Indian dahl are lunch options. Always interesting music and a concise selection of New Zealand wine and craft beer also make the cafe a good option for an afternoon drink.
24 Wharf Rd
Riding the rails and tackling the zipline at Driving Creek
Constructed over many years by conservationist and potter, the late Barry Brickell, the Driving Creek Railway is a Kiwi classic. Winding through native bush across bridges and via spirals and switchbacks, the narrow-gauge train travels for 2.7km, providing excellent bush and coastal views from the Eyefull Tower. Opened last year, Driving Creek’s new Coromandel Zipline Tour is a 21⁄ 2- hour experience incorporating forest walks and eight ziplines spanning 1km. Booking ahead for the railway and the zipline is recommended.
380 Driving Creek Rd, see drivingcreek.nz
Midday Fresh seafood at the Coromandel Oyster Company
With ocean views, you’ll struggle to find seafood any more fresh than at the Coromandel Oyster Company. As well as serving locally-harvested bivalves in a variety of ways – raw with a squeeze of lemon and a splash of Tabasco sauce is recommended – mussel chowder, and mussel and pa¯ua fritters are also available. Fish and chips and marinated shellfish complete the briny offering. Enjoy the sunny picnic tables behind the shop. 1611 Manaia Rd
Afternoon Shopping for local arts and crafts at The Source
For several decades, painters, sculptors and mixedmedia artists have called the Coromandel Peninsula home, and The Source is a good showcase of the region’s diverse and interesting work. More than 30 artists are represented at this combination of co-operative, gallery and shop. 31 Kapanga Rd
Road-tripping to Colville
From the town of Coromandel to the rural hamlet of Colville, the coastal road meanders past pretty beaches and coves for around 25km. Amodeo Bay is enlivened by crimson po¯hutukawa blooms during summer and there’s good swimming around Waiaro’s gentle sandy arc. Stop at Hereford ‘n’ a Pickle in Colville for a fresh fruit icecream and to stock up on local produce, including jams and pickles.
Evening Pre-dinner drinks at Star and Garter
This historic pub on Coromandel’s main street dates to 1873, and the kauri-lined interior is a great spot for an end of the day drink. Head into the garden bar, clad in quintessentially Kiwi corrugated iron, or maybe take on the locals at a game of pool. Quiz night from 6.30pm on Wednesdays always offers a good time.
5 Kapanga Rd
Dinner at the Pepper Tree Restaurant & Bar
Dining in the shaded garden at Pepper Tree is a quintessential Coromandel experience, especially on a warm spring or summer night. The area’s most diverse evening menu includes plenty of local seafood, a concise selection of authentic Indian curries, and one of New Zealand’s best plates of fish and chips. There are also occasional tasting nights with smaller regional wineries and craft breweries.
31 Kapanga Rd
Morning Brunch at Weta Cafe
There’s more garden dining to be had at Weta, where a restored colonial cottage is the setting for an innovative brunch and lunch menu. Try the eggs benedict with pork belly or a breakfast burrito to kick start the day. If you’re heading back to Auckland or Hamilton, take State Highway 25 and stop at Ku¯aotunu, where Luke’s Kitchen serves coffee from local roasters Coffee Lala, before segueing later for wood-fired pizza and craft beers from tiny Ku¯aotunu-based Blue Fridge Brewery.
46 Kapanga Rd