Coromandel Peninsula Honeymoon

The densely forested Coromandel Peninsula, which juts into the sea between Auckland and the Bay of Plenty, offers some of the North Island’s most scenic white-sand beaches – all just a short drive from Auckland.

Things to do and see
A forested hinterland of high ridges separates the wild and rugged western coastline from the sheltered eastern shore, known for its many wide, gently sloping, white-sand beaches that offer a range of activities such as safe swimming, diving, snorkelling, sailing, cruising and fishing.

Hike one of the numerous trails to see ancient kauri trees or to a swimming hole surrounded by beautiful native forest. Try the Kauri Block Walk, which leads to the site of an old Maori pa (fortress), with spectacular 360-degree views of the Coromandel Ranges, offshore islands and the township.

Further north, a track meanders through a typical coastal forest of puriri, kohekohe and pohutukawa in the Papa Aroha Scenic Reserve, before emerging onto a picturesque swimming beach.

Or go biking or horseback riding along forested trails to idyllic beaches, usually fringed by scarlet pohutukawa trees (flowering from December to January) and flanked by sculpted black volcanic rock formations.

Accommodation
The Coromandel Peninsula offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, including the 4-star Pacific Harbour Lodge near Tairua Beach, the 4-star Grand Mercure Puka Park Resort, situated in the mountains near Pauanui Beach and the 4-star Waihi Beach Lodge located opposite scenic Waihi Beach. Alternatively, try the 5-star Admiralty Lodge Motel in Whitianga, located near Cathedral Cove, Buffalo Beach and Mercury Bay.

Best time to visit the Coromandel Peninsula?
Any time. The Coromandel Peninsula has a maritime climate: generally warm from November to April, with an average summer temperature of 16˚C and a high of 25˚C (December to February); and never truly cold, even in winter (June to August), when it is usually wet and temperatures range between 9˚C and 15˚C.

Location – The Coromandel Peninsula is located south-east of Auckland, around 170km – a 2hr 30-minute drive.

Flight time – 3 hours from Sydney/Brisbane to Auckland, 6.5 hours from Perth (via east coast)