Search Cars → Change your itinerary Pickup Auckland Wellington Nelson Christchurch Queenstown Dunedin Drop Off Auckland Wellington Nelson Christchurch Queenstown Dunedin Choose trip duration --- 3 Days 5 Days 7 Days 10 Days 21 Days 28 Days Want to change the duration of your journey? Change trip duration 3Days 5Days 7Days 10Days 21Days 28Days 3Days Auckland to Coromandel to Auckland in 3 days Driving Tour So, you’ve booked yourself a long weekend in the Coromandel heading off from Auckland – great decision – we love the Coromandel! There are so many cool things to do down there whether you want an all-action weekend or you just want to kick back with a good book on an amazing beach – the Coromandel offers it all. The drive down there from central Auckland is going to take around 2 and a half hours if you head straight there but there are a few pit stops on the way to break up the journey and it’s a great way to get familiar with your new rental car! If you’re still in the planning stage of your trip, make sure you check out the great deals on car rental at Auckland Airport or hire cars in Auckland City – we’re not one of New Zealand’s favourite rental car companies for no reason! Right, if you’re ready – let’s GO! Contents Route map with key locations Recommended vehicle for this trip Trip itinerary Auckland Whitianga The Coromandel Peninsula Hot Water Beach Banana Boat Return to Auckland Book a vehicle for this trip We recommend: Zippy Auto Toyota CHR Get a Quote Seats 5 seats Large Bags 1 Small Bags 1 Transmission Auto trans Trip Itinerary 1Auckland to the Coromandel Peninsula (168km – 2 hours 30 mins) Heading out from central Auckland and taking the State Highway 1 south, you will soon find yourself getting away from the hustle and bustle of the big little city as you start to hit the lush green countryside. Just past Bombay is the turn off towards the Coromandel onto SH2 however we urge you to head down SH1 for one additional junction – the detour will be well worth it, we promise! Pokeno Ice Cream (52.1km – 36mins from Auckland) We know we made you come an extra junction down but it’s already time for the best kind of stop – an ice cream pit stop. The Pokeno store is renowned for the biggest ice creams in the country. Pokeno Takeaways, on Great South Road, will sell you a 15-scoop ice cream (yes, you read that right). Treat yourself. See, we told you it was worth it! Coromandel Peninsula (120km – 2 hours from Pokeno) Head back one junction north on SH1 and take the turn off onto SH2 heading for Thames. This will take you through lush flatlands as you follow Route 25 and really start to hit the open roads that NZ is famous for. When booking your trip to the Coromandel, there are a number of places to stay – our personal favourite is on the east side of the peninsula at Whitianga or Hahei but you could also choose to stay in Coromandel Township – wherever you stay down here is going to be amazing so pick whatever suits your trip. Coromandel Township If you picked to stay at Coromandel Township you will take Route 25 up the west side of the peninsula. After passing through the quaint little town of Thames, the road makes its windy way along the coastline with some fantastic views back across towards the mainland where you have just come from. Arriving in Coromandel Township, you’ll immediately notice that the town has a laid back feel to it so take the Kiwi approach and don’t rush around – it’s time to take a more laid back approach to this road trip! Enjoy the atmosphere, as well as the numerous artisan centres spread around the place where you can take your pick at different workshops and pick up some beautifully handcrafted pottery, wood carving or painting. Before you head off, stop by the Coromandel Museum and learn a little about the town’s gold mining and Kauri history, both of which have shaped the region into what it is today. Whitianga If you decided that Whitianga was for you, then you will instead head to the east coast on Route 25A, merging with Route 25 towards Tairua, a small village on the drive up which is a nice place for a stop off to break up the drive. The next section of road from Tairua to Whitianga is very hilly and very windy so drive with care whilst taking in some of the breathtaking views – there are regular lookout spots along the way so take your time, especially if you haven’t driven this way before. Whitianga is a great little town with heaps of character. The shell-clad beach around Mercury Bay stretches on for miles and there are a number of accommodation options that open up right onto the beachfront (there is a road between you and the sand if we’re being honest!). Whitianga has a great range of bars, cafes and restaurants so it’s the perfect place to relax on your first night down on the Coromandel. 2Around the Coromandel Peninsula Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or something a bit more adventurous, there is plenty to do whichever side of the peninsula you have based yourself. Here are a few of our top tips for adventure or relaxation. Beaches Hot Water Beach (34kms – 30 mins from Whitianga) GO Snap Happy Photo Opportunity One of the quirkiest spots on the Coromandel is Hot Water Beach. Located around 30 minutes from Whitianga, for one hour on either side of low tide, it’s possible to dig yourself a little hot pool and bathe in the waters – if you kick your legs enough you might even think you’re in a hot tub! This is great fun in the summer or winter and spades are available for hire or most places to stay in and around Whitianga will be able to help you out. New Chums Beach – Wainuiototo Bay (15km – 20 mins from Coromandel Township) Now, this is something truly special. This little hidden gem is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It’s small and it requires a short hike to get to but what you’ll find is an example of the really pristine and unspoiled natural wonders of New Zealand. Cathedral Cove (37kms – 40 mins from Whitianga) One of the more famous and most visited beaches in these parts is at Cathedral Cove. GO Play partner Cathedral Cove Kayak Tours will give you a 10% discount on a guided tour out to visit the sea caves and check out the towering cliffs of the Te-Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve. Hahei (36kms – 35 mins from Whitianga) If you’re looking for a really great spot to lay back and watch the world go by, Hahei is the perfect place. Lovely golden sands and crystal clear waters will greet you and there’s no better place when the sun is shining. This is also an access point to Cathedral Cove which is only accessible by foot or boat so make a day of it and visit both while you are round this way. If you’re brave enough, there is a great rope swing at the end of the beach which will swing you out over the incoming tide – lots of fun! Adventure and Activities Cooks Beach (1.5-hour walk from Whitianga including ferry crossing) If you’re looking to head out and about and leave the car at home for a day, Cooks Beach is a great walk out from Whitianga harbour. Catch the ferry across to Ferry Landing and then head round Maramaratotara Bay towards Shakespeare Cliff Scenic and Historic Reserve. It’s possible to access the walk from the beach at low tide or from the road if the tide is high. From the top of the reserve, you have some great views out over Mercury Bay before dropping down to the 3km crescent of Cooks Beach. Fishing There are some great fishing trips to take whether you are staying in Whitianga or Coromandel Township. Snapper is a popular catch around these parts but once you get out into the deeper waters, game fish like kingfish can be found and make for a great catch. There are a number of charters available so get yourself booked for a relaxing day out to sea and catch your supper. Banana Boat One of the most popular activities in Whitianga is the banana boat. You will have all seen them before but if you have never been brave enough to have a go, maybe now’s the time to break your duck. The banana boat will take you out into Mercury Bay and speed you around whilst you cling on for dear life – a dip into the water is a typical end to one of these trips but the water is lovely and warm in the summer so enjoy. Kauri Grove (3kms south of Coromandel Township) A spectacular grove of New Zealand’s oldest and most famous trees, the kauri. The walk is a 30-minute return along boardwalks and footbridges – a fairly sedate walk but a great chance to see some of New Zealand’s oldest trees if you have not yet had the chance. Rangihau Ranch Horse Riding (18kms – 20 mins from Whitianga) Follow the old packhorse trails in the valleys of the Coroglen through native bushland and across open pastures on a 1 or 2-hour horse trek. There is something quite romantic or rugged (depends on who you’re with!) about horse trekking and the stunning views out across the peninsula are well worth a bit of saddle soreness the next day! 3Return to Auckland One of the best things about a trip to the Coromandel is that no matter where you stay, the other side of the peninsula is never too far away. Your last day on the peninsula can be spent heading back via whichever town you have not been staying in and getting involved with some of the activities you missed out on the day before. You can of course take Route 25 up and over the top of the peninsula or alternatively, try the 309 Road, a gravel road that will take you on a journey through dense bushland with spectacular views as you wind yourself alongside the river. There’s plenty to see and do along the way including the Kauri Grove, Stu’s Wild Pigs and Castle Rock. Coromandel Complete Guide After a long weekend spent on the Coromandel, you will be heading back to Auckland feeling rested and relaxed and already starting to plan your next visit down here. If you want some more tips or you have a tip of your own, visit our Explore New Zealand section on the website or submit your own tips to our GO Explore Facebook page. Related Blog Posts Top 14 Things To Do In Auckland On a Rainy Day The 5 biggest cities in New Zealand and what to do there 9 Self Drive Day Trips From Auckland 10 top destinations within 3 hours’ drive of Auckland Book a vehicle for this trip We recommend: Zippy Auto Toyota CHR Get a Quote Seats 5 seats Large Bags 1 Small Bags 1 Transmission Auto trans
3Days Auckland to Coromandel to Auckland in 3 days Driving Tour So, you’ve booked yourself a long weekend in the Coromandel heading off from Auckland – great decision – we love the Coromandel! There are so many cool things to do down there whether you want an all-action weekend or you just want to kick back with a good book on an amazing beach – the Coromandel offers it all. The drive down there from central Auckland is going to take around 2 and a half hours if you head straight there but there are a few pit stops on the way to break up the journey and it’s a great way to get familiar with your new rental car! If you’re still in the planning stage of your trip, make sure you check out the great deals on car rental at Auckland Airport or hire cars in Auckland City – we’re not one of New Zealand’s favourite rental car companies for no reason! Right, if you’re ready – let’s GO! Contents Route map with key locations Recommended vehicle for this trip Trip itinerary Auckland Whitianga The Coromandel Peninsula Hot Water Beach Banana Boat Return to Auckland Book a vehicle for this trip We recommend: Zippy Auto Toyota CHR Get a Quote Seats 5 seats Large Bags 1 Small Bags 1 Transmission Auto trans Trip Itinerary 1Auckland to the Coromandel Peninsula (168km – 2 hours 30 mins) Heading out from central Auckland and taking the State Highway 1 south, you will soon find yourself getting away from the hustle and bustle of the big little city as you start to hit the lush green countryside. Just past Bombay is the turn off towards the Coromandel onto SH2 however we urge you to head down SH1 for one additional junction – the detour will be well worth it, we promise! Pokeno Ice Cream (52.1km – 36mins from Auckland) We know we made you come an extra junction down but it’s already time for the best kind of stop – an ice cream pit stop. The Pokeno store is renowned for the biggest ice creams in the country. Pokeno Takeaways, on Great South Road, will sell you a 15-scoop ice cream (yes, you read that right). Treat yourself. See, we told you it was worth it! Coromandel Peninsula (120km – 2 hours from Pokeno) Head back one junction north on SH1 and take the turn off onto SH2 heading for Thames. This will take you through lush flatlands as you follow Route 25 and really start to hit the open roads that NZ is famous for. When booking your trip to the Coromandel, there are a number of places to stay – our personal favourite is on the east side of the peninsula at Whitianga or Hahei but you could also choose to stay in Coromandel Township – wherever you stay down here is going to be amazing so pick whatever suits your trip. Coromandel Township If you picked to stay at Coromandel Township you will take Route 25 up the west side of the peninsula. After passing through the quaint little town of Thames, the road makes its windy way along the coastline with some fantastic views back across towards the mainland where you have just come from. Arriving in Coromandel Township, you’ll immediately notice that the town has a laid back feel to it so take the Kiwi approach and don’t rush around – it’s time to take a more laid back approach to this road trip! Enjoy the atmosphere, as well as the numerous artisan centres spread around the place where you can take your pick at different workshops and pick up some beautifully handcrafted pottery, wood carving or painting. Before you head off, stop by the Coromandel Museum and learn a little about the town’s gold mining and Kauri history, both of which have shaped the region into what it is today. Whitianga If you decided that Whitianga was for you, then you will instead head to the east coast on Route 25A, merging with Route 25 towards Tairua, a small village on the drive up which is a nice place for a stop off to break up the drive. The next section of road from Tairua to Whitianga is very hilly and very windy so drive with care whilst taking in some of the breathtaking views – there are regular lookout spots along the way so take your time, especially if you haven’t driven this way before. Whitianga is a great little town with heaps of character. The shell-clad beach around Mercury Bay stretches on for miles and there are a number of accommodation options that open up right onto the beachfront (there is a road between you and the sand if we’re being honest!). Whitianga has a great range of bars, cafes and restaurants so it’s the perfect place to relax on your first night down on the Coromandel. 2Around the Coromandel Peninsula Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or something a bit more adventurous, there is plenty to do whichever side of the peninsula you have based yourself. Here are a few of our top tips for adventure or relaxation. Beaches Hot Water Beach (34kms – 30 mins from Whitianga) GO Snap Happy Photo Opportunity One of the quirkiest spots on the Coromandel is Hot Water Beach. Located around 30 minutes from Whitianga, for one hour on either side of low tide, it’s possible to dig yourself a little hot pool and bathe in the waters – if you kick your legs enough you might even think you’re in a hot tub! This is great fun in the summer or winter and spades are available for hire or most places to stay in and around Whitianga will be able to help you out. New Chums Beach – Wainuiototo Bay (15km – 20 mins from Coromandel Township) Now, this is something truly special. This little hidden gem is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It’s small and it requires a short hike to get to but what you’ll find is an example of the really pristine and unspoiled natural wonders of New Zealand. Cathedral Cove (37kms – 40 mins from Whitianga) One of the more famous and most visited beaches in these parts is at Cathedral Cove. GO Play partner Cathedral Cove Kayak Tours will give you a 10% discount on a guided tour out to visit the sea caves and check out the towering cliffs of the Te-Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve. Hahei (36kms – 35 mins from Whitianga) If you’re looking for a really great spot to lay back and watch the world go by, Hahei is the perfect place. Lovely golden sands and crystal clear waters will greet you and there’s no better place when the sun is shining. This is also an access point to Cathedral Cove which is only accessible by foot or boat so make a day of it and visit both while you are round this way. If you’re brave enough, there is a great rope swing at the end of the beach which will swing you out over the incoming tide – lots of fun! Adventure and Activities Cooks Beach (1.5-hour walk from Whitianga including ferry crossing) If you’re looking to head out and about and leave the car at home for a day, Cooks Beach is a great walk out from Whitianga harbour. Catch the ferry across to Ferry Landing and then head round Maramaratotara Bay towards Shakespeare Cliff Scenic and Historic Reserve. It’s possible to access the walk from the beach at low tide or from the road if the tide is high. From the top of the reserve, you have some great views out over Mercury Bay before dropping down to the 3km crescent of Cooks Beach. Fishing There are some great fishing trips to take whether you are staying in Whitianga or Coromandel Township. Snapper is a popular catch around these parts but once you get out into the deeper waters, game fish like kingfish can be found and make for a great catch. There are a number of charters available so get yourself booked for a relaxing day out to sea and catch your supper. Banana Boat One of the most popular activities in Whitianga is the banana boat. You will have all seen them before but if you have never been brave enough to have a go, maybe now’s the time to break your duck. The banana boat will take you out into Mercury Bay and speed you around whilst you cling on for dear life – a dip into the water is a typical end to one of these trips but the water is lovely and warm in the summer so enjoy. Kauri Grove (3kms south of Coromandel Township) A spectacular grove of New Zealand’s oldest and most famous trees, the kauri. The walk is a 30-minute return along boardwalks and footbridges – a fairly sedate walk but a great chance to see some of New Zealand’s oldest trees if you have not yet had the chance. Rangihau Ranch Horse Riding (18kms – 20 mins from Whitianga) Follow the old packhorse trails in the valleys of the Coroglen through native bushland and across open pastures on a 1 or 2-hour horse trek. There is something quite romantic or rugged (depends on who you’re with!) about horse trekking and the stunning views out across the peninsula are well worth a bit of saddle soreness the next day! 3Return to Auckland One of the best things about a trip to the Coromandel is that no matter where you stay, the other side of the peninsula is never too far away. Your last day on the peninsula can be spent heading back via whichever town you have not been staying in and getting involved with some of the activities you missed out on the day before. You can of course take Route 25 up and over the top of the peninsula or alternatively, try the 309 Road, a gravel road that will take you on a journey through dense bushland with spectacular views as you wind yourself alongside the river. There’s plenty to see and do along the way including the Kauri Grove, Stu’s Wild Pigs and Castle Rock. Coromandel Complete Guide After a long weekend spent on the Coromandel, you will be heading back to Auckland feeling rested and relaxed and already starting to plan your next visit down here. If you want some more tips or you have a tip of your own, visit our Explore New Zealand section on the website or submit your own tips to our GO Explore Facebook page. Related Blog Posts Top 14 Things To Do In Auckland On a Rainy Day The 5 biggest cities in New Zealand and what to do there 9 Self Drive Day Trips From Auckland 10 top destinations within 3 hours’ drive of Auckland Book a vehicle for this trip We recommend: Zippy Auto Toyota CHR Get a Quote Seats 5 seats Large Bags 1 Small Bags 1 Transmission Auto trans
