A short hour and a half drive from Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga lies the Coromandel, New Zealand's favourite destination. Its unspoilt landscape and relaxed lifestyle make it an ideal holiday destination.
Framed by native Pohutukawa trees on the western side, beautiful white sandy beaches on the east and divided by ranges cloaked in native rainforest, the Coromandel's 400kms of coastline offers the visitor a truly distinctive blend of experiences.
A walkers paradise with a range of trails to explore, from short coastal walkways to multi day treks, the region will delight you at every turn. Go for a swim, take a launch trip, sea kayak, be fascinated by the amazing seascapes of our marine reserves, visit an artists studio or reflect in one of our museums on the heritage of a region first discovered by the two great navigators, Kupe and Cook.
Scallops rank up there as one of Kiwi's favourite seafoods. So it is not surprising that the annual Whitianga Scallop Festival has quickly become one of New Zealand's must do festivals! The first two festivals have sold out well in advance of the event with huge crowds indulging in this iconic delicacy. The festival has a unique blend of upmarket cafe's and restaurants serving up authentic New Zealand cuisine next to community groups like Coastguard and the local school. And it is all set on Whitianga's stunning waterfront.
Scallop Festival - August
InterCity Coachlines operate daily services to the Coromandel from Auckland and Tauranga.