New Zealand: A Coromandel Getaway

Ever wanted to wake up to the sound of the ocean in the morning without paying a hotel premium that will make your eyes water? Head to the Coromandel. The Coromandel coast road is a hotspot for freedom camping, which are ideal for motorhomes to park up and make the most of spectacular views. In summer, the road is lined with blossoming pohutukawa trees and the waters of the Hauraki gulf are an unbelievable shade of blue. In winter, the experience is just as spectacular. I’ve been to the Coromandel and driven the coast road hundreds of times, and winter is always my favourite. 

It’s the perfect place to escape when you want to escape the routine of your day-to-day life and get in touch with nature. Even on the stormiest days, Coromandel beaches have the ability to give work frustrations and personal worries a bit of perspective. Commit to a drizzly walk along the beach or a paddle in the ocean and you may come back looking like a drowned rat, but it will be well worth it. The native forests and mountains of the peninsula are ideal to hike in winter, when evergreen trees become even greener and fresh rain gives everything that out-doorsy smell. Yes, I’m waxing lyrical, but really - you should go.

If you’re heading from Auckland in your motorhome rental, make sure to bring some snacks for the ride to make the most of your trip (because you’re not getting the ultimate experience unless there’s food involved).Thames is the perfect rest stop to stretch your legs (and get more snacks from the local supermarket) before you head onto the rest of the journey. The coast road which winds its way along the west coast of the Coromandel Peninsula offers plenty of pit-stops where you can explore local beaches, or the walking tracks which stretch their way inland. 

Base yourself near Coromandel town and you’ll have plenty to keep you going for amenities, with a foursquare, liquor store, and plenty of cafes for all the flat whites your heart desires - though you’ll definitely find the best at Wharf Road Cafe. It’s definitely worthwhile to head to Driving Creek railways and buy a ticket for the train which meanders its way up the Coromandel mountains, and gives you breathtaking panoramic views of the peninsula. The Coromandel Zipline Tours also operate nearby, for those of you wanting more of an adrenaline rush. You can even buy some gorgeous kitschy homemade ceramics from the pottery store there for a souvenir. 

Waiau Falls is just a few minutes drive out of town, where you can spend an afternoon exploring native bush, fresh water springs, and of course - the waterfall. This hidden gem can be pretty packed in summer, but in winter the brisk waters don’t get many visitors, making it the ideal spot for a dip, and is even a fun adventure on a rainy day. Just along from the turn off for Waiau Falls is Coromandel Oyster Company, a cute local store where they sell plenty of fresh seafood. After you’ve spent the day splashing around and hiking through the forests, nab your dinner from here and park your campervan at Egan’s Park Reserve and you’ll be the peak of contentment. 

If you’re keen to try your hand at surfing, head on to the east coast and seek out New Chums beach, just a half hour drive from Coromandel Town. It’s also a half hour walk from any developed road and can be a popular hotspot in summer, but in winter you can end up having the beach entirely to yourself - ideal for anyone wanting to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy some solitude. 

Once you’ve made the most that Coromandel Town has to offer, why not make your way east to Whitianga? You can kayak your way around the bay or nearby Cathedral Cove, and follow it up with a dip at The Lost Spring Spa to ease away those winter aches and pains. Finish off your trip with even a portion of the 16km of the Pinnacles Trail and you’ll be boasting about this trip to all your friends and family - you don’t have to go far up the track to get stunning views of Kauaeranga Valley, so put your walking shoes on and get going!

Although the Coromandel is typically the place for summer holiday makers, the area has just as much to offer in winter.