As far as New Zealand holiday destinations go, the Coromandel Peninsula is a popular choice. It’s only a 90 minute drive from Auckland city and is renowned for the natural beauty of its scenic countryside, native forests and gorgeous beaches. The region is popular for fishing, walking and water sports and is full of coastal communities such as Te Puru, Whitianga and Tairua which each have their own unique flavour. There are plenty of holiday rental properties on the Coromandel Peninsula to suit every taste – from the classic Kiwi bach to modern beachfront apartments. And once you have arrived and settled in, you can start exploring.

Coromandel is the perfect place to relax and unwind from the rigours of busy city life. One popular destination is Hot Water Beach. If you get the tide right, you can experience the pleasure of digging your own hot tub!

Just five minutes further down the road is Hahei where you will find the amazing Cathedral Cove marine reserve. It’s a great place to go whether you prefer to be in or on the water. For those with a sense of adventure, Cathedral Cove is the perfect place to go snorkelling or to get your first taste of scuba diving. You will see huge crayfish and snapper and experience the underwater world up close. If you prefer to stay on top of the water, you can hire a kayak and explore the coastline as well as the nearby offshore islands. You will paddle through sea caves as well as exploring coves and blow holes.

One of the great family experiences in the Coromandel township is the Waterworks. With a huge variety of water themed inventions and attractions, there’s something to intrigue every age group. Try out the human mouse wheel or the water canons. Let loose on the flying fox or simply cool off in the natural swimming hole. Lunch can be eaten at the café on site or you can use one of the gas fired BBQs and cook your own food.

Coromandel is a great place to go if you love walking and getting closer to nature. There are plenty of walks to choose from, including a three hour trek to the base of the Pinnacles. The walk retraces the steps made by packhorses in the early 1900s as they carried supplies for the kauri loggers, gold miners and gum diggers who were trying to make their fortune.

At the end of each day, return to your Coromandel holiday property rental for some well earned rest before you plan the next day’s adventure.