It was a Friday afternoon in Auckland, and I’d just closed my laptop after a long week of Zoom calls, deadlines, and half-eaten microwave meals. The city was buzzing, but I needed quiet. You know that feeling when your brain's fried and your soul’s begging for trees, beaches, and something not digital? Yeah, that was me. So I packed a bag, grabbed a mate, and we hit the road south for a weekend in Coromandel.
If you’re living in NZ like I am (or even just visiting), and you haven’t explored the Coromandel Peninsula yet—what are you doing? It’s one of the most naturally beautiful spots in the country, and I reckon it’s got something for everyone. Here’s what we got up to, plus a few more things to do in coromandel that I’ve done over a few different trips. Hopefully it gives you a bit of inspo for your own getaway.
? 1. Dig Your Own Spa at Hot Water Beach
First up, this one’s basically a rite of passage. You drive all this way, and then you dig a hole. Sounds mad, but hear me out.
About two hours before or after low tide, you can dig into the sand at Hot Water Beach and hit natural thermal springs underneath. The water gets seriously hot—like burn-your-toes hot—so you’ve got to find the right mix of hot and cold spots. It’s honestly such a laugh trying to build your own little pool. One bloke near us basically created a whole mini resort and invited strangers in. Pure Kiwi vibes.
Tip: Bring a proper spade. Don’t rely on that $2 plastic one from the servo.
? 2. Walk the Pinnacles (If You’re Up for the Challenge)
If you're a bit more active and want that feeling of earning your views, the Pinnacles Track is your go-to. I did this one last year in late autumn—cool air, golden leaves, and not too many people about.
It’s a solid hike. You’re looking at 6-8 hours return, depending on how fast you go. We stayed the night in the hut at the top, which I highly recommend. There’s nothing like waking up before sunrise, throwing on a beanie and watching the sky explode into pink and orange from the summit.
Tip: Book the hut in advance. It fills up, especially on weekends.
?️ 3. Chill at New Chums Beach
New Chums is a bit of a secret spot—but not that secret anymore. Still, it’s unspoiled and beautiful, and you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled into your own private paradise.
You can only get to it by a 30-minute walk across rocks and through the bush, which keeps the crowds away. No shops, no cafés—just golden sand, clear water, and peace. I brought a book, lay in the shade, and actually relaxed—something I apparently don’t do enough of, according to my flatmate.
Tip: Bring everything you need—water, snacks, sunscreen—because there’s literally nothing there, and that’s the whole point.
? 4. Ride the Hauraki Rail Trail (or at Least a Bit of It)
Okay, full disclosure—I’m not a cyclist. But my mate is, and he talked me into hiring a bike and doing a chunk of the Hauraki Rail Trail. I did not regret it (my legs did, but I didn’t).
It’s an easy ride along old railway lines, past farms, bush, and through the Karangahake Gorge (which is stunning, even on foot). We stopped for ice cream halfway through and it turned into a full-blown day of exploring and banter.
Tip: Don’t try and be a hero. Pick a manageable section and enjoy the scenery instead of racing through it.
? 5. Go Kayaking Around Cathedral Cove (Or Just the Walk!)
I’ll talk more about Cathedral Cove in another post, but it has to get a mention here too. It’s one of those postcard places that actually lives up to the hype.
You can walk there from Hahei Beach—about 45 minutes each way—or go by kayak if you want a bit more adventure. Last time, we paddled out at sunrise. The cliffs glowed, the water was glassy, and we were the only ones there. Genuinely magic.
Tip: Try to get there early. It gets busy, and you’ll want your pics without 50 other people in the background.
? 6. Try Fishing Off the Rocks or a Local Charter
If fishing’s your thing (or even if it’s not), Coromandel is full of great spots. I gave it a crack off the rocks near Fletchers Bay—caught absolutely nothing, but had a few cold beers and a good yarn with some locals who were pulling up snapper like it was nothing.
There are heaps of fishing charters if you want a more serious go. I’ve heard stories of monster kingfish out that way. One day I’ll land one… hopefully.
Tip: Check the tides and don’t be a muppet—watch where you’re stepping on the rocks.
? 7. Soak Up the Laid-Back Vibes in the Small Towns
One of the best things about Coromandel isn’t the beaches or the hikes—it’s the vibe. Every little town you roll into feels like it’s in no rush. You’ll find roadside honesty boxes selling fresh avos and feijoas, old-school bakeries, quirky art shops, and friendly locals who’ll tell you where the best swimming hole is (if you ask nicely).
We stayed in a tiny bach we found last minute and ended up chatting with the owner over a cuppa the next morning. That kind of wholesome experience? You don’t get that everywhere.
If you’re working in NZ and haven’t taken advantage of weekends away, you’re seriously missing out. Coromandel’s the kind of place that makes you breathe deeper and smile more. Whether you’re into hiking, chilling, paddling, or just switching off, it’s got you covered.
So yeah—pack a bag, chuck your jandals in the boot, and go find your own little adventure in Coromandel. Just don’t forget the spade.
