Department of Conservation - Coromandel Peninsula

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Another Introduction to the
COROMANDEL PENINSULA
New Zealand • The World

With off-shore islands, coastal farm parks and sandy beaches, bush-clad hills, valleys and sub-alpine areas, the Coromandel Peninsula caters for almost every recreational interest.

photo courtesy Johansen Guiding
Much of the Coromandel Peninsulas treasury of natural and historic features, native plants and wildlife is entrusted to the Department of Conservation for care and management.
The Department's Maori name - Te Papa Atawhai - refers to the national treasure chest in need of care and protection.
Visitors to the Coromandel Peninsula will appreciate these priceless assets as places to be experienced and enjoyed now, just as they have been in the past. But, they must also be looked after and protected for generations to come.
Stop awhile, take the time to embrace a range of outdoor experiences on land and seascape protected for conservation - perhaps:-

a wander in the regenerating kauri forests of the peninsula's volcanic hills.
a barefoot stroll along secluded beaches, coves and protected coasts of the region.
snorkeling or diving beneath the sea around the coast, or in the fully protected marine reserve at Hahei.
delve into the rich human history of the region - both Maori and the 19th century pioneers, at interpreted sites.

The Coromandel Peninsula offers a huge variety of conservation destinations for visitors and locals alike to explore and enjoy. Majestic kauri, unspoiled beaches, relics of the logging and mining era, exciting tramping tracks, easy walks, clear rivers and protected marine environments are all easily accessible and an essential part of the Coromandel Peninsula experience.

There are many walking and tramping opportunities in the Coromandel Peninsula, from easy short walks to half day, full day and overnight trips. The Pinnacles Hut is a comfortable place to stay on the historic Kauri Trail. Tickets must be booked in advance from the Kauaeranga Valley Visitor Centre.

For a taste of the Coromandel Peninsula's long and colourful past take a trip through the Karangahake Gorge, follow the walkway along the old train track, call into the Visitor Centre and explore the Victoria Battery site.

Waiau Falls, located seven kilometres along the 309 Road, are well worth visiting. Nearby a short, easy walk takes you to a beautiful grove of kauri - one of the few patches of original forest left in the Coromandel Peninsula.

The Department of Conservation manages 15 campgrounds around the Coromandel Peninsula: five in the north, eight in the Kauaeranga, one in the Wentworth Valley and one at Broken Hills. They have basic facilities only. Over the busy summer period bookings may be essential.

Hot Water Beach - Photo by B.I.G.