Coromandel Peninsula

Whether you enjoy tramping through the wilderness, admiring beautiful natural sights or lying on a beach, Coromandel Peninsula has everything to suit each interest. Starting at Thames on the west coast, we headed up to Fletcher Bay at the very northern tip. There were many chances to trek - especially in Coromandel Forest Park - through old colonial mining areas, passing caves and tunnels along the way. The vast green landscapes provide new delights around every corner and when the sealed road finishes just after Colville it's an adventurous last push to Port Jackson and Fletcher Bay. From Fletcher Bay, you can walk to Sandy Bay. The return trip is around seven hours. On this part of the peninsula there are no shops, proper toilets, hot water showers or places to find drinking water so go prepared. We were only prepared by accident and it wouldn't have ended well otherwise! I did manage to drive the car over our water supply but fortunately it survived... that's another story! The drive down the east coast is just as spectacular offering even more walks and sunbathing opportunities. A must-visit spot is Hot Water Beach - two hours either side of low tide, head down with a spade, dig a hole and enjoy bathing in 60c water! Sounds nuts, but it's true. After that, visit Hahei and enjoy a somewhat challenging trek to the fabulous Cathedral Cove. You won't be disappointed. You can even visit the oyster farms or just enjoy being off the grid as there's also no wifi and limited phone reception!

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These are my favourite sights from a week of exploring this beautiful part of New Zealand's north island.