Scenic Drives from Auckland to Coromandel

September 22nd, 2024

Embarking on a road trip from Auckland to Coromandel offers breathtaking views and hidden gems along the way. In this blog, we’ll explore three must-know scenic drives that enhance your road trip Auckland to Coromandel experience.

Exploring Clefton and Kawakawa Beach

After leaving the Auckland Botanic Gardens, you continue your journey towards Clefton, a charming village just outside Auckland. If you happen to be traveling on a Sunday, make sure to stop at the Clefton Village Farmers Market. This market offers a delightful array of local produce, crafts, and food items, making it a perfect spot to experience local culture and stock up on goodies for the road.

Continuing the drive, you head towards Kawakawa Beach. This stretch of road is quintessentially New Zealand, offering a refreshing glimpse of the country’s natural beauty right outside Auckland. The serene landscapes and coastal views are simply breathtaking, making it a perfect introduction to the scenic wonders that await.

The drive from Kawakawa Bay to your next destination is approximately four to five hours, covering around 253 kilometers. The journey continues along the shoreline, offering numerous opportunities for bird watching. Notable stops include the Puko Aurora Coral Bird Sanctuary and the Robert Finlay Wildlife Reserve. These sanctuaries are havens for bird enthusiasts, providing a chance to observe a variety of seabirds in their natural habitat.

Highlights of the Karangahake Gorge

After exploring Kawakawa Bay, head back to State Highway 25 and continue south towards the Karangahake Gorge. This area is rich in history and natural beauty, making it a must-visit on your road trip from Auckland to Coromandel. The gorge is renowned for its gold mining history, dating back to the 1880s. Today, it offers a variety of walking trails, cycle paths, and historical sites to explore.

One of the highlights of the Karangahake Gorge is the network of swing bridges and tunnels. These structures provide a unique way to explore the area, offering stunning views and a sense of adventure. The gorge’s winding roads and scenic viewpoints make it a perfect spot to take a break and soak in the surroundings.

As you continue your journey, you’ll reach Waihi Beach, a popular holiday destination known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you choose to stay here or continue north, the area around Waihi Beach offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

Option 1: Kawakawa Bay and Karangahake Gorge

The first alternative scenic route takes you through Kawakawa Bay and the Karangahake Gorge. This route is not only shorter but also offers a diverse range of landscapes and activities. Starting from Auckland, head south on State Highway 1 and exit at the Auckland Botanic Gardens. From there, follow the signs to Clefton and Kawakawa Beach, enjoying the picturesque countryside and coastal views along the way.

After visiting the bird sanctuaries, return to State Highway 25 and continue towards the Karangahake Gorge. This area is rich in history and natural beauty, offering a variety of walking trails, cycle paths, and historical sites to explore. The winding roads and scenic viewpoints make it a perfect spot to take a break and soak in the surroundings.

Continue your journey towards Waihi Beach, a popular holiday destination known for its beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you choose to stay here or continue north, the area around Waihi Beach offers plenty of opportunities for exploration and relaxation.

Option 2: Kopu and Thames

The second scenic route option is a bit longer but equally rewarding. After leaving Auckland, head towards Kopu and turn left towards Thames. This old mining town is steeped in history and offers a great place to stop for lunch and gather information. The town’s gold mining heritage is well-preserved, with attractions such as the stamper battery, which was used to extract gold from quartz.

Continue north along the shoreline, passing through Coromandel township. This historic village offers stunning scenery and beautiful viewpoints, making it a great place to spend some time. The winding roads and numerous hiking trails provide plenty of opportunities for exploration.

As you make your way towards the East Coast, stop at Matarangi Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in New Zealand. Take a leisurely walk along the beach, soak in the scenery, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. From here, you can continue to Whitianga, a major township on the eastern side of the Coromandel Peninsula. This area offers a variety of accommodation options and attractions, including a passenger ferry to Cook’s Beach.

Option 3: Tapu and the Tapu Coroglen Road

The third scenic route option takes you through Tapu and the Tapu Coroglen Road. This route is around three and a half hours long, covering approximately 200 kilometers. After leaving Auckland, head towards Thames and continue north to Tapu. From here, take the Tapu Coroglen Road, a winding and challenging route that offers a unique connection between the western and eastern sides of the Coromandel Peninsula.

This road requires confident driving skills, especially in bad weather conditions, but it rewards you with stunning scenery and peaceful spots like the Rapaura Water Gardens. This magical spot features lush gardens, water features, and walking trails, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Another must-visit stop along this route is the Square Kauri, one of the oldest and largest trees in the world. The short walk to this magnificent tree is well worth the effort, offering a glimpse into the Coromandel Peninsula’s rich natural heritage.

Continue along the Tapu Coroglen Road to reach the eastern side of the Coromandel Peninsula. From here, you can visit popular destinations like Cook’s Beach and Whitianga, or head to Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own hot pool in the sand at low tide. This unique experience is a must-do on any road trip Auckland to Coromandel.

Discovering Thames and its Rich History

Thames, once a bustling gold rush town in the 1860s, offers a fascinating glimpse into New Zealand’s past. As you stroll through the historic streets, you’ll encounter beautifully preserved buildings and informative plaques detailing the town’s storied history.

One of the most intriguing attractions in Thames is The Treasury, a museum and archive dedicated to the area’s heritage. Here, you can delve into the lives of the early gold miners and settlers, learning about the challenges and triumphs they faced.

Another must-visit site is the Thames School of Mines, an educational institution turned museum that offers guided tours. These tours provide a hands-on experience, allowing visitors to see the old classrooms, laboratories, and mineral collections that were once vital to the mining industry.

For those interested in outdoor activities, the Kauaeranga Valley is a short drive from Thames and offers numerous hiking trails. The Pinnacles Walk is particularly popular, providing stunning views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

Experience the Hot Water Beach

Hot Water Beach, located on the eastern side of the Coromandel Peninsula, is a unique natural phenomenon and a must-visit destination. At low tide, you can dig your own hot pool in the sand, thanks to the geothermal activity beneath the beach. The water can reach temperatures of up to 64°C (147°F), making it a perfect spot to relax and unwind.

Timing your visit is crucial, as the best time to experience Hot Water Beach is within two hours on either side of low tide. This ensures that you can fully enjoy the hot springs before the tide comes in and covers the pools.

While you’re in the area, take the opportunity to explore nearby attractions such as Cathedral Cove and Hahei Beach. Cathedral Cove is renowned for its stunning limestone archway and crystal-clear waters, making it a popular spot for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking.

Final Thoughts on Your Road Trip

A road trip from Auckland to Coromandel is an adventure filled with diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique experiences. Whether you choose the scenic route via Thames and Matarangi Beach, the adventurous Tapu Coroglen Road, or the traditional path through the Karangahake Gorge, each offers its own set of attractions and highlights.

Take your time to explore the charming villages, pristine beaches, and lush forests along the way. Stop frequently to enjoy the views, learn about the local history, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Coromandel Peninsula.

Remember to plan your trip according to your interests and preferences, and don’t hesitate to take detours to discover hidden gems. The journey from Auckland to Coromandel is not just about reaching your destination but also about enjoying the experiences and memories you create along the way.