Coromandel Escape
A true star of the North Island
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Rugged, raw and rustic on one side and beautiful, golden and full of New Zealand's most loved beaches on the other.
With mountainous ranges splitting the coastlines, the Coromandel simply has to be seen to be believed. Let us show you around.
This relatively isolated part of North Island New Zealand, is a favourite holiday spot for Kiwis and it's not hard to see why. Coastlines on the east and west of the Peninsula are vastly different, which makes for ever changing scenery and a real contrast of the way the locals live.
We explore the entire Peninsula in all its natural beauty discovering the fascinating history of gold and forestry in the region, while also visiting all the hotspots the area is famous for. From quirky number 8 wire waterparks, to glorious gardens and beaches, this tour has something for everyone and is sure to leave you wanting to come back time and time again.
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Tour highlights
Itinerary
Whanganui / Home - Thames
Whanganui / Home (Feb 22nd)
Depart Whanganui Racecourse at 8.30am and travel north up SH4 to the National Park Village for morning tea at the Station Cafe.
We then take in the wonderful views of the Central Plateau as we make our way to Te Kuiti for a lovely finger food lunch. We carry on our journey north until we hit the historic town of Thames on the southwestern end of the Coromandel Peninsula.
Thames
We arrive at our accommodation for the night with time for some rest and relaxation before we head out for dinner at one of the highly rated restaurants in town.
Accommodation: Rolleston Motel
Thames – Coromandel Town
Thames (Feb 23rd)
After a relaxed start to the day, we board the coach and make our way to the Thames Goldmine Experience. Here, we take a guided tour through 19th century tunnels viewing the ancient gold processing machinery, including a big stamper battery (rarely seen today), and you can pan for gold and keep any nuggets or specks you find. There is also a video and photo gallery for those who prefer to stay above ground.
Rapaura water gardens - Waterworks
We then carry on the coastal road north before heading into the hills to the beautiful Rapaura Water gardens. Upon our arrival, we are welcomed with a brief introduction followed by a delicious lunch. You will then be given time to explore the tranquil beauty of the gardens. After a relaxing visit enjoying the lovely surrounds, we depart and resume our journey north.
Our final visit today is at the quirky Waterworks – a theme park with a difference. Set in five acres of native Coromandel bush, where you’ll find an array of water powered inventions, kiwi DIY contraptions and fun to discover at every turn.
Coromandel Town
We arrive in Coromandel Town and check in to our accommodation for the next two nights. You have time to relax and take a dip in the pool or spa before we gather for dinner at a highly rated local restaurant.
Accommodation: Anchor Lodge
Coromandel – Northern Reaches
Coromandel – Northern Reaches (Feb 24th)
A relaxed start to the day before we head out to explore the remote northern part of the Coromandel Peninsula and places such as Colville and Port Jackson. We will take a picnic lunch with us and have several stops on the way to enjoy the scenery of sea, bush, and beaches, and the various ‘out of the way’ little settlements. Please note, a lot of today's drive is off the beaten track and we will be driving on gravel roads.
We will have an ice cream stop on the way back, returning in time for you to wander the town before meeting for dinner at another lovely local restaurant.
Accommodation: Anchor Lodge
Coromandel Town – Whitianga
Coromandel Town – Whitianga (Feb 25th)
This morning, we enjoy an interesting train ride in the Coromandel hills as we take a trip on the iconic Driving Creek Railway, New Zealand’s only narrow-gauge mountain railway. Enjoy the scenery as you travel through regenerating and replanted native kauri forest where unique pottery sculptures line the track.
Whitianga
Following this adventure, we travel across the Peninsula and down the East Coast to Whitianga. Visiting various beaches on the way, including Matarangi where we will stop for lunch, and Kuaotuna. We arrive into Whitianga in time for a wander about town before heading out on the water with Whitianga Waterways to cruise around the newly developed waterways in the area. Drinks and nibbles will be provided as we view historical landmarks, see a range of wildlife and gaze upon million dollar luxury homes and yachts.
Accommodation: Mana-Nui Motel
Whitianga – Hot Water Beach - Whitianga
Whitianga – Hot Water Beach (Feb 26th)
A relaxed start to the day and a chance to take a stroll down the beach before departing for a ‘must do’ activity! We board the Glass Bottom Boat and explore the breath-taking volcanic coastline, including the world-famous Cathedral Cove. See the stunning Champagne Bay plus a range of blow holes and sea caves. You will be amazed by all the marine life that can be seen through the glass panels in the ‘Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve.
After the great morning of exploring we board the coach and head south stopping for a picnic lunch at the Whiti Farm Park.
We have time to meander through over eight acres of mature park like surroundings and a short bush walk. Meet, hand feed, cuddle and interact with over 40 species of friendly farmyard and exotic animals, birds and reptiles.
Hot Water Beach
We then have a short drive out to some of the most popular summer destinations in the country. We visit Cooks Beach, Hahei Beach and of course Hot Water Beach. We have timed our visit today well to partake in a truly unique Kiwi experience that every New Zealander should experience at least once in their lifetime! We dig our own little hot pool using the heated water rising from beneath our feet at the certain spots on the beach. You can also spend time checking out the art galleries, cafes or simply enjoy this famous beach.
Whitianga
We head back to our accommodation and continue the true kiwi experience by having a fish & chip dinner and raising a glass to this great day of exploring.
Accommodation: Mana-Nui Motel
Whitianga – Whangamata
Whitianga – Whangamata (Feb 27th)
We depart Whitianga heading south to Sailors Grave, also known as Te Karo Bay, an uninhabited beach north of Tairua. We view the actual site of the Sailor's Grave and the beautiful beach, before making our way into Tairua. Here, we view Mount Paku and have time to stroll the shops and get yourself some lunch.
It is then around to the purpose-built holiday community of Pauanui which lies across the harbour from Tairua. We check out the country’s first canal housing development and surrounding beautiful beaches.
Whangamata
We carry on into the relaxed surf town of Whangamata, famous for its unique combination of beach and rainforest. We have a short tour around before settling into our accommodation for the night. You are given some free time to swim, play pétanque or wander the town.
We have a scrumptious final group dinner organized before resting our heads for the night at our great central accommodation.
Accommodation: Palm Pacific Resort
Whangamata – Waihi – Whanganui / Home
Whangamata – Waihi (Feb 28th)
A short drive south to start the day as we head to the famous Gold Town of Waihi. Here, we join Waihi Gold Mine Tours that take you inside the fence to experience modern-day gold mining up close. You’ll be fitted out with safety gear and given a safety briefing, then taken to view the mine operations from the best available vantage points. You’ll be shown every stage of the process from ore extraction and crushing, through to final processing. We then head back to the award-winning Gold Discovery Centre where you can experience the fascinating story through interactive activities.
It is then onto Goldfields Historic Railway, where you travel back in time and enjoy a ride on a heritage train to Waikino at the eastern end of the spectacular Karangahake Gorge.
A lovely group lunch will be waiting at the Station Cafe when we arrive and then we will start to make our way home.
Whanganui / Home
Our first stop is the Hamilton Gardens where those passengers travelling to Auckland, or other destinations, will catch the shuttle to Auckland airport and catch their flights home, or be shuttled to their door.
The rest of the group will continue south to Whanganui with comfort stops and a light afternoon tea en route, and we plan to get home in time for dinner.
Photos from the road
Check out what we got up to last time
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Optional extras
Optional extras
Meet your tour guide
Jason Granville
After years in the broadcasting industry, Jase hung up his headphones to run Take It Easy Tours. With now over a decade behind the wheel Jason ensures every tour will leave you with a lifetime of memorable expereinces.
Reserve your spot
There is limited availability for this tour. Please contact us to find out more.
Frequently asked questions
Can you collect me from my door?
Yes, it would be our pleasure. We can arrange for you to be picked up and returned to your front door at the conclusion of any tour.
How about travel insurance?
We strongly recommend taking out travel insurance as soon as you book your trip. It just puts your mind at ease. Remember to make sure you are covered for and loss of personal possessions, sickness, accidents or travel delays. Feel free to ask us for any tips to make this quick and easy for you.
How active are your tours?
We are called Take it Easy for a reason as we like to do just that. Do as much or as little as you like - after all it's your holiday! However, there is walking and various activities on each tour that require various levels of fitness. Please check with us if you are unsure about anything and relax knowing that there's always another option for you if you would rather miss out on any activity. We always have a back up plan.
I have some dietary requirements?
Please just let us know in advance and we will sort everything for you. Chefs are used to all sorts now when it comes to diet so as long as we know - we’ll have you covered.
What happens if I have to cancel?
Cancellation charges do apply so again we recommend travel insurance. Our cancellation policy is clearly outlined for each tour so make sure you cast your eye over it and please feel free to ask any questions.
What kind of accommodation do we stay in?
Having a good night's rest after a day out touring is very important so we personally choose all of our accommodation. Generally, four star accommodation when available - with all the comforts you need for a relaxed night.
What types of transport do we use?
Our buses are quality touring coaches that are very comfortable and fully air conditioned. They range in size from 19-28 seats ensuring that we can easily access all those secret spots off the beaten track. All vehicles are regularly serviced as your safety is our priority.
Coaches and luggage trailers are always locked and secure but we recommended you take any valuables with you when staying overnight.
Can I earn Air New Zealanad airpoints on my flights?
Yes, you can earn airpoints with Take It Easy Tours when we are using Air New Zealand flights. All you need to do is get in contact with us and let us know your airpoints number for each time you wish to earn points.
Still have questions?
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