The traffic was horrendous going over the bridge and Auckland was just a silhouette and we never made it into the city. So we headed back towards the country area and felt so much more at home there. Yes, more pretty green fields scattered with yellow buttercups and white daisies. The roadsides were also scattered with spring flowers and even climbing roses.
Thames is the gateway to the Coromandel is situated on the Firth of Thames. Here we decided to take the big loop around the peninsula. This township is known for the pioneering industries of gold mining and kauri logging.
The whole coastline is very popular with locals and tourists alike. Coming to think of it, there are tourists everywhere! You need many days to appreciate this whole peninsula, taking the walks, heading to some of the great beaches, or rainforest walks to swimming holes and waterfalls. This is a place for a holiday all on its own.
The Coromandel Peninsula is a large untouched paradise. Native Pohutukawa trees are on the western side and on the eastern shores this is fringed with beautiful beaches. The ranges in the middle are covered in lush native rainforest with the most mind blowing twists and turns on the road. The panoramic views make up for any discomfort felt whilst driving. Each twist, each turn promises to enthral you with magical views. Coromandel itself is a lovely township, we did not stop for the place was packed with day tourists, and you know how we feel about cities and crowds.
Of course, with such a seafood rich coastline, we had a huge feast on freshly cooked mussels. We are being good and not pigging out and not munching on delectable. And I think we are starting to shed a few ounces. But for the life of me I cannot remember the place where we stopped!
Matarangi and Whitianga are lovely holiday townships for quiet holidays. Mercury Bay is perfect for all water activities.
Tairua is an old milling and farming town but primarily now only a small fishing village. There is a lovely estuary and harbour and apparently the area is renowned for diving. Paku rises above the harbour –this is a volcanic peak with remnants of Maori pa sites.
Waihi is a township also with a huge history of gold mining days. By then we were tired and really wanted to buy some food and find our next B&B destination in Katikati. And….what a delight our B&B is – Welcoming and warm. Hosts incredibly friendly, welcoming and such a lovely warm feeling homestead. We shall enjoy our time here.
Have been following your travels daily. Glad you’re having a wonderful time and hope you will want to come home to us!!