Coromandel gains two new “motorhome friendly” towns

Kristof on Dec 19, 2016

Good news for New Zealand motorhome vacationers!

The Coromandel peninsula has always been a favourite summer destination for Kiwis, but for those planning a motorhome vacation to this low key yet lovely corner of New Zealand things have just got even better. Both Whangamata and Whitianga have been certified motorhome friendly by the New Zealand Motor Caravan Association (NZMCA), joining Coromandel Town and more than 40 other Kiwi towns already included in the scheme. The NZMCA has invested heavily in campervan facilities in the area, including a newly opened leased property in Whitianga, increasing the quality of travel experiences not only for their members, but all motorhome holidaymakers. 

NZMCA CEO Bruce Lochore said of the new motorhome friendly destinations, “The result is a win/win for everyone. For Whitianga and Whangamata, official recognition as Motorhome Friendly will encourage more of our members and international visitors to stop, stay and spend. And for motorhomers, the towns’ status as Motorhome Friendly is a clear indication that they can expect a warm welcome.” 

One of the most popular spots to kick off a Coromandel motorhome rental road trip is Auckland, as big city denizens escape the urban jungle for a taste of New Zealand at its most relaxed. It’s only two hours from Auckland to Thames, Coromandel’s largest town but anyone who has holidayed here before will know that this is just the start of the adventure. Those keen to see all that the peninsula has to offer might want to start with a trip up to Port Jackson, stopping in at Coromandel Town along the way. The beauty of Port Jackson isn’t its lavish facilities (it’s barely a town) but rather its unspoiled isolation - a perfect example of what makes Coromandel so special.  

From there, it’ll be time to explore the east coast of the peninsula with a detour to Opito Bay before ending up in Whitianga. Chances are you’ll want to spend a bit of time in this idyllic tiny town just unwinding, before heading on to check out some of New Zealand’s favourite beaches: Hahei and Hot Water Beach. Be sure to bring a shovel along: at Hot Water Beach you can make your own spa pool just by digging a hole in the sand and letting natural hot water fill it in. 

Whangamata will round off your Coromandel motorhome road trip - while it’s not a big town by any means, it’s large enough to host a couple of golf courses, a good few eateries and a mini-golf. Of course, that’s all in addition to lovely beach with decent surf opportunities. 

For an in depth road trip guide (complete with attractions, driving distances and helpful tips) from Auckland back to Auckland which includes the Coromandel, take a look at this First to See the Sun itinerary. 

On the other hand, if you’re still not convinced that Coromandel is the ideal spot for your summer holiday, take a look over these other New Zealand itineraries to jumpstart your next epic vacation!

Written By: Kristof Haines

It’s funny how motorhome memories stick with you. I can still recall a motorhome vacation my family took when I was five years old and how awesome I thought I was, tucked away in a loft bed above the cab. From revealing unique destinations to providing tips and tricks, it’s my mission to help others build great motorhome memories too.