The Coromandel Peninsula - Audley Travel
The Coromandel Peninsula - Audley Travel
The Coromandel Peninsula - Audley Travel
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<strong>Coromandel</strong> & Pacific Coast<br />
Stretching out into the Pacific both to the<br />
north and to the east, this sprawling<br />
region encompasses unspoiled landscapes<br />
flanked by some of New Zealand’s finest<br />
coastal scenery. Aucklanders flock to the local<br />
beaches to enjoy the sun, surf and sand, and to<br />
relax into the region’s laidback lifestyle.<br />
During the spring much of the bush is set<br />
ablaze with the vivid red bloom of the native<br />
pohutukawa trees, which, set against the rich<br />
green of the forest, the deep blue of the ocean<br />
and the endless golden sands, provide a<br />
spectacle of colour. <strong>The</strong> communities here are<br />
as colourful as their landscapes, and many<br />
retain a very strong Maori culture: there are<br />
some fantastic examples of Maori carvings,<br />
marae and intricately decorated churches<br />
dotted along the main roads. This is a richly<br />
fertile region, producing vast quantities of<br />
New Zealand’s fruit and encompassing its<br />
oldest wine-growing industry, which now<br />
enjoys international acclaim. Townships vary<br />
from lively holiday resorts to the sleepy<br />
remnants of gold-mining settlements and<br />
impressive Spanish Mission and art deco<br />
creations. <strong>The</strong>re is plenty here to entertain<br />
the mind, as well as ample opportunity to<br />
relax and soak up some of the many hours<br />
of sun this region enjoys.<br />
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<strong>The</strong> <strong>Coromandel</strong> <strong>Peninsula</strong><br />
Jutting north into the Pacific Ocean, the<br />
<strong>Coromandel</strong> <strong>Peninsula</strong> features two beautiful but<br />
contrasting coastlines, encompassing pretty seaside<br />
townships and hidden bays that feel serenely<br />
remote despite their close proximity to Auckland.<br />
Along the Firth of Thames the coast is open and<br />
rocky, much wilder in feel than the tranquil,<br />
protected beaches of the eastern coast. Inland<br />
rugged, volcanic hills are cloaked in thick, native<br />
rainforest. Historically only visited by loggers and<br />
gum-diggers, a gold rush in the late 1800s brought<br />
miners thronging to the area, and many of the<br />
townships display evidence of this lucrative period.<br />
Thames, the gateway to the peninsula, is a prime<br />
example of a once-grand gold rush town that<br />
now simply serves the local farming community.<br />
Thames also marks the edge of the Kauaeranga<br />
Forest Park. Formerly one of the country’s major<br />
sources of kauri timber it was logged for nearly<br />
100 years until supplies were exhausted. It is now<br />
a picturesque wilderness offering walks through<br />
regenerating forest growth, over bubbling streams,<br />
under jagged limestone outcrops and past volcanic<br />
chimneys. Restored heritage architecture, access<br />
to safe, empty beaches, and a wonderfully laidback<br />
lifestyle draw most visitors to the eastern coast,<br />
with only a handful reaching the most northern<br />
points – only accessible by unsealed road – where<br />
the landscape has remained virtually unchanged<br />
for centuries.<br />
COLLEITH LODGE, TAIRUA<br />
With the stunning coastal scenery of the<br />
<strong>Coromandel</strong> just begging to be explored, Colleith<br />
Lodge provides an ideal base. Each of the three<br />
guest rooms opens onto a private patio area, with<br />
sweeping views over the Tairua estuary, Slipper<br />
Island and the Pacific Ocean - perfect for just<br />
relaxing and breathing in the sea-salt air. <strong>The</strong><br />
property has been purpose-built by the hosts<br />
who provide guests with evening drinks and<br />
canapés on the terrace by the pool. For those<br />
who can tear themselves away from<br />
the view, Tairua village and beach are only<br />
a short stroll away.<br />
Cabbage Tree at the tip of the <strong>Coromandel</strong> <strong>Peninsula</strong><br />
Colleith Lodge, Tairua<br />
Hahei & Hot Water Beach<br />
<strong>The</strong> Te Whanganui-a-Hei Marine Reserve<br />
encompasses a wonderful stretch of <strong>Coromandel</strong><br />
coastline, dotted with offshore islands and rock<br />
stacks that protect the calm mainland beaches.<br />
Leading up to the reserve is Hahei Beach, a<br />
glorious stretch of golden sand enjoying a<br />
panoramic vista of the islets. Cathedral Cove is a<br />
30-minute scenic walk from the nearest car park,<br />
but well worth the stroll as you are rewarded<br />
with a fine beach, dominated by a gigantic arched<br />
cavern accessible on foot only at low tide. At Hot<br />
Water Beach thermal waters brew just below the<br />
sand; within two hours either side of low tide you<br />
can dig a hole in the sand and sit in your own<br />
natural spa pool.<br />
<strong>Coromandel</strong> & Pacific Coast: New Zealand<br />
Telephone: 01993 838 820<br />
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Cathedral Cove, <strong>Coromandel</strong> <strong>Peninsula</strong><br />
Kiwi Dundee Adventures<br />
Both in terms of incredible local knowledge and<br />
immense passion for the area, a day spent with<br />
Doug Johansen (‘Kiwi Dundee’) is unbeatable.<br />
Doug, his partner Jan, and their team of guides<br />
will lead you on a fascinating journey through the<br />
<strong>Coromandel</strong> <strong>Peninsula</strong>, explaining history, legend,<br />
flora and fauna, as well as outlining their work<br />
with the Department of Conservation to preserve<br />
and enrich their natural heritage. Visit ancient<br />
Maori Pa sites, fossick for gold and collect shells in<br />
beautiful deserted bays, or explore abandoned<br />
goldmines now illuminated by the gleaming tails of<br />
tiny glow-worms - the options are plentiful. Trips<br />
are tailored around the preferences of the group<br />
and the daily tides, and will genuinely enhance<br />
your appreciation of the diversity and natural<br />
beauty of this part of New Zealand.<br />
Kuaotunu Bay Lodge, Whitianga<br />
Views from Killyrudden, Tairua<br />
KUAOTUNU BAY LODGE,<br />
WHITIANGA<br />
At the most northern point of the Pacific Coast<br />
Highway lies the seaside settlement of Kuaotunu.<br />
Once a thriving gold-mining town, Kuaotunu is<br />
now better known for its pristine sandy bays,<br />
bush walking, horse trekking, and as the starting<br />
point for exploration of the remote northern tip<br />
of the peninsula. Kuaotunu Bay Lodge is perched<br />
above the safe swimming beach, and the guest<br />
rooms open out directly into the gardens, leaving<br />
you free to wander to and from the sea as you<br />
please. <strong>The</strong>re is also a separate self-contained<br />
unit for those seeking a little more independence<br />
or planning a longer stay.<br />
TAIRUA<br />
KILLYRUDDEN BED & BREAKFAST,<br />
Perched high on the edge of Mount Paku,<br />
Killyrudden Bed & Breakfast enjoys a magnificent<br />
location overlooking the Tairua Estuary. Each of<br />
the three guest rooms has access to the elevated<br />
decks. You may choose to lounge in the hot tub,<br />
read a book in one of the hammocks, or stroll<br />
through the beautifully landscaped gardens.<br />
Bay of Plenty<br />
<strong>The</strong> Bay of Plenty is an area of thriving agriculture<br />
and endless coastline, popular with the Kiwis<br />
themselves, many of whom escape from the<br />
towns to their ‘baches’ along the stretch of coast<br />
between the principal town of Tauranga and the<br />
popular Papamoa Beach. Across Tauranga<br />
harbour the skyline is dominated by the volcanic<br />
cone of Mauao, where a fairly challenging climb is<br />
rewarded with unobstructed views along the<br />
coast. Mount Maunganui, the town at its base, is a<br />
very popular place to celebrate New Year and is<br />
a centre for surf and adventure year round. To<br />
the east is Whakatane and its smaller, seaside<br />
neighbour of Ohope, another sweeping stretch of<br />
empty, golden sand. Off the coast lies the small<br />
but smouldering White Island, New Zealand’s<br />
most active volcano, whose steamy shroud is<br />
clearly visible from all along the Bay’s coast.
Pacific Coast<br />
Highway<br />
This alternative five day self-drive route travels<br />
from Auckland down to Hawke’s Bay and the<br />
wine country. <strong>The</strong> Pacific Coast Highway avoids<br />
the thermal centre of the North Island and<br />
instead heads off the beaten track, clinging to<br />
the spectacular east coast with its wild beauty.<br />
This is an ideal route for those who have already<br />
visited Rotorua and Lake Taupo and want to<br />
experience a different aspect of the North Island.<br />
<strong>The</strong> wharf at Tolaga Bay, Eastland<br />
Day 1<br />
Day 2<br />
Day 3<br />
Day 4<br />
Depart from Auckland and explore<br />
the <strong>Coromandel</strong> <strong>Peninsula</strong>, visiting<br />
the old gold mining centre of<br />
Thames, the magnificent coastal<br />
scenery of Cathedral Cove, and Hot<br />
Water Beach.<br />
Spend a full day exploring the native<br />
rainforest interior with ‘Kiwi Dundee’<br />
before relaxing on a deserted<br />
<strong>Coromandel</strong> beach.<br />
Drive along the coast of the Bay of<br />
Plenty to Mount Maunganui, climbing<br />
the peak to enjoy the superb<br />
panoramic views.<br />
Journey into the little-visited East<br />
Cape region, where the coastal<br />
scenery becomes dramatic. <strong>Travel</strong> as<br />
far as Gisborne, the first city to see<br />
the sun each morning.<br />
Opou Country House, Gisborne<br />
Whakaari (White Island)<br />
Volcanic White Island is a designated private<br />
scenic reserve, and can only be visited on<br />
organised trips which we can arrange for you.<br />
Although mined for sulphur extensively in the<br />
early 1900s, it was soon acknowledged that this<br />
unique environment and its endemic species<br />
should be protected. Today, trips take visitors<br />
over by helicopter or boat, and incorporate both<br />
a visit to the old sulphur mining factory and an<br />
exhilarating walk around the crater’s edge,<br />
peering right into its hissing, steaming heart.<br />
Eastland & Gisborne<br />
Stretching out into the Pacific Ocean, the littlevisited<br />
and unspoilt Eastland harbours some of<br />
New Zealand’s most dramatic scenery. As the<br />
Pacific Coast Highway hugs the shore all the way<br />
from Opotiki to Te Araroa, it passes through<br />
tunnels of ancient pohutukawa forest, tiny<br />
settlements rich in Maori culture, and spectacular,<br />
deserted bays. Gisborne, the country’s most<br />
easterly city, is renowned for its long hours of<br />
sunshine and fertile plains, producing many<br />
subtropical fruits and some of the country’s best<br />
chardonnays. <strong>The</strong> inland route back to Opotiki<br />
climbs steadily up to Matawai, then plunges into<br />
the magnificent Waioeka River Gorge which<br />
runs back down to the Pacific Ocean.<br />
OPOU COUNTRY HOUSE,<br />
GISBORNE<br />
This historic country mansion, set in 5 hectares of<br />
immaculate gardens and surrounded by farmland,<br />
ensures a wonderfully tranquil stay. <strong>The</strong> five<br />
sumptuous guest suites feature a mix of Asian<br />
and European antiques, carefully fused with the<br />
early New Zealand pieces which have always<br />
been a part of the house. An added draw is the<br />
huge country kitchen where you can enjoy a<br />
glass of wine or a cooking lesson with Robyn,<br />
your host, who delights in welcoming guests into<br />
her home. <strong>The</strong> local Maori marae is next door,<br />
and, for those who are interested, the elders of<br />
the tribe are more than happy to share their<br />
traditional stories.<br />
Whale Rider Touring<br />
Witi Ihimaera’s acclaimed novel and film brought<br />
the legend of the Maori ancestor Paikea to<br />
international fame. Paikea was one of the royal<br />
sons of Hawaiki, who is said to have come to<br />
New Zealand on the back of a whale, and today<br />
many Maori people can trace their whakapapa or<br />
genealogy to this warrior. Much of the story is set<br />
in Whangara, 29 kilometres north of Gisborne,<br />
where you can take a tour with the tribal elder<br />
and cultural advisor to the film, Hone Taumaunu.<br />
Day 5<br />
Drive on to Napier and the Hawkes<br />
Bay region. Enjoy an afternoon<br />
exploring the wineries on an<br />
escorted tour, thus allowing you<br />
to sample the fine wines without<br />
having to drive.<br />
EXTENSIONS<br />
This remoter part of the country is ideal for those<br />
who want to slow down and savour the delights<br />
of the countryside. A trip out to White Island can<br />
easily be added from the Bay of Plenty, and<br />
several days can be taken over the drive around<br />
the cape. <strong>The</strong> inland gorge road is a haven for<br />
trampers, as is the beautiful Lake Waikaremoana,<br />
just inland from Hawke’s Bay.<br />
Whakaari (White Island)<br />
Japan <strong>Coromandel</strong> & Pacific Coast: New Zealand<br />
Telephone: 01993 01869 276 838 220 820<br />
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Autumn in Hawke’s Bay<br />
32<br />
Hawke’s Bay<br />
<strong>The</strong> Hawke’s Bay region, where warm sunny<br />
summers and crisp winter frosts create an arena<br />
perfect for horticulture, is known as the ‘fruit<br />
bowl’ of New Zealand, particularly renowned for<br />
its apples and kiwi fruit. Of greater interest to<br />
most visitors, however, are the many local<br />
wineries. On the fertile plains between Napier<br />
and Hastings lies a veritable treasure trove of<br />
vineyards, producing wines of international quality.<br />
Stretching along the coast, the crescent-shaped<br />
bay and jagged promontory of Cape Kidnappers<br />
was so named by Captain Cook who promptly set<br />
sail after the local Maori attempted to carry off his<br />
translator. It is now home to the world’s largest<br />
and most accessible mainland gannet colony: the<br />
birds can be seen preening, performing their<br />
unique ritual dance of recognition and surfing the<br />
wind currents over the cerulean sea.<br />
Cape Kidnappers<br />
Napier & Hastings<br />
Nowhere else in the world can you see such a<br />
variety of buildings in the style of the 1930s<br />
packed into one place. Much of Napier was<br />
destroyed in a massive earthquake in 1931, and<br />
the town was carefully designed and rebuilt in<br />
art deco style. <strong>The</strong> added influence of Maori art<br />
and culture is reflected in many of the motifs,<br />
creating an individual style unique to Napier.<br />
This characterful town centre is complemented<br />
by Marine Parade, a glorious waterfront fringed<br />
with Norfolk Pines. In nearby Hastings, hidden<br />
amongst the art deco buildings are some fine<br />
examples of Spanish mission-style architecture.<br />
THE MASTER’S LODGE, NAPIER<br />
If visiting Napier for its famous art deco buildings,<br />
<strong>The</strong> Master’s Lodge is an unmissable treat. <strong>The</strong><br />
hosts have painstakingly created a beautiful,<br />
luxurious property that remains true to the<br />
essence of the art deco period. <strong>The</strong> rooms are<br />
wonderfully spacious with splendid décor, with<br />
the dining and living areas offering an equally<br />
sumptuous experience, wrapped by a balcony<br />
offering stunning coastal views.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Master’s Lodge, Napier<br />
NAPIER<br />
COBDEN GARDEN HOMESTAY,<br />
Cobden Garden Homestay is perched above the<br />
town centre in the heart of a delightful residential<br />
suburb of historical houses. Two guestrooms,<br />
one with a large spa bath and the other<br />
traditionally furnished with a Victorian claw bath,<br />
offer a cosy night’s rest. A homemade breakfast<br />
of local produce is served in the breakfast room<br />
or lounge and your hosts welcome you to join<br />
them in the evening for a wine tasting before you<br />
venture out to sample the fine city restaurants.<br />
Art Deco Walk, Napier<br />
<strong>The</strong>re are daily guided walks which take you on<br />
an easy stroll through the fascinating architecture<br />
of the town centre. Your accredited guide will<br />
lead you through the various different art deco<br />
styles, both outside and inside the buildings, giving<br />
you a real insight into this unique heritage.
Wildlife<br />
& Wineries<br />
New Zealand’s international recognition in wine<br />
production is arguably due to the famed<br />
Marlborough region, but the North Island also has<br />
a huge amount to offer in terms of top-class<br />
wineries, from Gisborne chardonnays to Hawke’s<br />
Bay cabernets. Focussing on the central North<br />
Island this itinerary combines some of the best<br />
northern wine growing areas, together with<br />
superb wildlife viewing opportunities.<br />
Greenhill <strong>The</strong> Lodge, Hawke’s Bay<br />
Day 1<br />
Day 2<br />
Day 3<br />
Day 4<br />
From Auckland travel to Whakatane<br />
in the Bay of Plenty to swim with<br />
the dolphins. Depending on the time<br />
of year you may also see migrating<br />
whales, or encounter fur seals and<br />
penguins.<br />
Drive the scenic Waioeka Gorge<br />
road to Gisborne, and take a trip to<br />
one of the local wineries for a<br />
tasting and dinner.<br />
Skirt the impressive Hawke Bay to<br />
Napier. Take a guided trip out to<br />
Cape Kidnappers on a gannet safari.<br />
Enjoy a day exploring the many<br />
wineries. One option is to travel by<br />
bicycle, a wonderful way to enjoy<br />
the scenery and fresh air.<br />
An example of art deco Napier<br />
BLACK BARN, HAWKE’S BAY<br />
At this unique property, both a working vineyard<br />
and luxurious homestay, you can try being a<br />
‘vintner’ for a while. Guests here are invited to<br />
learn about every aspect of the wine industry, of<br />
which perhaps the most rewarding part - amply<br />
featured - is the sampling process. Surrounded by<br />
grapevines, this rustic property enjoys the feel of<br />
the South of France, but mellowed under the<br />
antipodean sun.<br />
GREENHILL THE LODGE,<br />
HAWKE’S BAY<br />
Set amid 12 hectares of park-like grounds with<br />
views over the rolling green hills of Hawke’s Bay,<br />
this opulent property simply radiates elegance and<br />
grace. Traditional luxury is the order of the day.<br />
Enjoy a fine dining experience accompanied by<br />
award winning Hawke’s Bay wines, then relax<br />
and admire the stars from the comfort of the<br />
beautiful viewing tower, or enjoy a post-dinner<br />
drink in the elegant wood-panelled billiard room.<br />
Modern facilities such as a swimming pool,<br />
gymnasium and spa pool ensure your stay will<br />
be comfortable and private.<br />
Gannets, Cape Kidnappers<br />
Long Island Tours,<br />
Hawke’s Bay<br />
Long Island Tours have been running trips<br />
throughout this region for many years, and have<br />
access to areas which no other operators can<br />
include. Local resident and fount of regional<br />
knowledge, Brigid Ormond, will guide you<br />
through the highlights of the Hawke’s Bay region,<br />
sharing her enthusiasm and insights. <strong>The</strong>re are<br />
unique opportunities to meet fascinating local<br />
characters, including artists in their studios, as well<br />
as exploring the stunning scenery and absorbing<br />
the local history. Amongst other activities you can<br />
experience a powhiri (Maori welcome) with one<br />
of the local tribes, climb the legendary Te Mata<br />
Peak or visit one of the region's many superb<br />
wineries, with time for a tasting.<br />
Day 5<br />
Day 6<br />
Journey south to the pretty town of<br />
Martinborough, and take a walking<br />
tour through the boutique wineries,<br />
most of which are a gentle stroll<br />
from the town centre.<br />
Enjoy a day trip out to Kapiti Island<br />
for a visit to the wildlife sanctuary,<br />
before ending your journey in<br />
Wellington.<br />
EXTENSIONS<br />
For true enthusiasts, this wine and wildlife trail can<br />
be extended into the South Island, where the<br />
highlights of Marlborough and the Kaikoura coast<br />
await. At many of the wineries, structured tours<br />
and tasting sessions are available, giving you an<br />
insight into the workings of a leading vineyard.<br />
Accommodation options are also available at<br />
many of the vineyards, allowing you to wake<br />
to the sun rising over the vines.<br />
TAILOR-MADE TRAVEL<br />
Our tailor-made journeys offer complete freedom<br />
of choice. <strong>The</strong> itineraries and accommodation<br />
shown are designed to give you a flavour of what<br />
is possible and can be tailored to suit your<br />
preferences. Prices vary according to selected<br />
accommodation and season, please telephone us<br />
to discuss your individual requirements.<br />
Black Barn, Hawke’s Bay<br />
Japan <strong>Coromandel</strong> & Pacific Coast: New Zealand<br />
Telephone: 01993 01869 276 838 220 820<br />
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