When I first moved to New Zealand for work, I didn't really know what to expect in terms of adventure. You hear all about the beauty of the country, but it wasn’t until I took a road trip to the Coromandel Peninsula that I truly realised how much of a hidden gem this place is. I’d been living in Auckland for about six months when a few mates and I decided to make the trip on a long weekend. What started as a quick getaway turned into one of the best trips I’ve had since moving here. 

Driving Through the Coromandel

So, what are the things to do in coromandel?

The first thing you’ll notice is how scenic the drive is. Picture winding roads, lush green forests, and the coastline popping in and out of view as you round each corner. We started early to avoid the traffic, and the golden morning light made everything look magical. If you're a fan of road trips, the Coromandel Peninsula is a dream. Just make sure to take breaks and enjoy the scenery – sometimes the journey really is as good as the destination.

Tip: Stop by Thames, a charming town where you can grab a coffee and stretch your legs. It’s also a good spot to refuel before heading into the heart of the peninsula.

Hot Water Beach – Dig Your Own Spa

One of the most iconic things to do in the Coromandel is Hot Water Beach. When I first heard about it, I wasn’t convinced – digging a hole on the beach to create a natural hot tub? Sounded a bit gimmicky. But trust me, it's one of those experiences that you’ll talk about for years. There’s something incredibly satisfying about finding the perfect spot and watching the steam rise from the sand.

How it works: You’ll need to check the tide schedule because this only works a couple of hours either side of low tide. Pack a spade (or hire one when you arrive) and dig until you hit warm water. It’s pretty surreal to be lounging in a hot pool while the ocean is just a few metres away.

Personal anecdote: When we visited, we didn’t realise how competitive it gets for the best spots. We arrived a bit late, and all the prime digging spots were taken. We ended up next to a couple who had clearly mastered the technique, and they kindly let us expand our pool into theirs. It’s a great way to meet people and share the experience.

Cathedral Cove – Instagram-Worthy and More

If you’ve seen any pictures of the Coromandel, you’ve probably come across Cathedral Cove. It’s one of those postcard-perfect spots that looks even better in real life. The cove is accessible by a 30-40 minute walk from the car park, but it’s worth every step. You walk through native bush, with glimpses of the coastline, until you reach the stunning archway that frames the beach.

Top tip: If you’re not up for the walk, you can take a boat tour (more on that later) or even a kayak tour to get there. We opted to walk, but next time I’d love to kayak. It’s an active way to explore the area, and you get a unique perspective from the water.

Personal anecdote: We arrived early in the morning and had the beach almost to ourselves. There’s something really peaceful about being there before the crowds descend. I sat down on the sand, just taking it all in, and it felt like I was in another world. Later in the day, it gets busy, so if you want that serene experience, I highly recommend an early start.

The Pinnacles Walk – For the Adventurous Souls

If you’re into hiking, The Pinnacles should be on your list. This is one of the most popular walks in the Coromandel, and for good reason. It’s a challenging climb, but the views from the top are absolutely breathtaking. You can do it as a day hike or stay overnight at the Pinnacles Hut and watch the sunrise from the summit. We didn’t stay overnight, but I’ve heard it’s an unforgettable experience.

Personal anecdote: When we did the hike, we underestimated how tough it would be. By the time we reached the summit, we were knackered, but the 360-degree views were worth every step. There’s a sense of accomplishment when you finally reach the top – not to mention, it’s an excellent workout.

Coromandel Town – A Quaint Retreat

After all the outdoor adventures, we spent some time exploring Coromandel Town. It’s got a laid-back vibe, with quaint shops, cafes, and art galleries. If you’re looking for a more relaxed day, this is the place to be. We spent the afternoon wandering through the streets, picking up some local crafts, and enjoying fresh seafood at one of the restaurants.

Personal anecdote: I’m a bit of a foodie, so when we found a place serving fresh mussels and fish caught that morning, I was in heaven. There’s nothing quite like eating seafood that’s been caught right off the coast you’ve been exploring.

The Coromandel Peninsula is one of those places where you can do as much or as little as you like. Whether you're up for hiking, lounging on the beach, or just taking in the scenery, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? It’s all within a few hours of Auckland, making it the perfect weekend getaway.