Our Favorite Coromandel Hikes
The Coromandel region, with its breathtaking mountains, verdant forests, spectacular coastlines, and rich mining history, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage that is sure to captivate you.
If you’re looking for things to do in Coromandel, exploring this fascinating place on foot is a great option. Whether you prefer a short 30-minute walk or a longer overnight trek, we’ve compiled a list of our top 9 must-do Coromandel walks that are sure to inspire you for your next visit.
Check out our top 9 walks in the Coromandel.
1. Cathedral Cove Walking Track
Shorts (45 minutes one-way)
The Cathedral Cove Walk near Hahei has reopened after nearly two years, allowing visitors to once again explore one of New Zealand’s most iconic coastal destinations. The 2.5km track takes about 45 minutes each way, leading walkers along scenic cliff-tops before descending to the breathtaking Cathedral Cove, with views of the Te Hoho rock pinnacle rising from the sea.
The track includes steep sections, so sturdy footwear is recommended. For a more relaxed option, visitors can take a boat or kayak tour to the cove and enjoy a scenic return journey by water. Parking is available at the Hahei Visitor Carpark, with a shuttle service to the track’s entrance.
Top tip: Visit during low tide for safer access to the archway, and check the weather to avoid rockfall hazards.
2. Wairere Falls Track
Medium (2.5 hours return)
This popular hike leads you to the Wairere Falls lookout, offering breathtaking views of one of the tallest waterfalls on the North Island. As you navigate through the bush and over moss-covered rocks, you’ll encounter natural pools along the way. Although the trail is relatively strenuous, it takes about 2.5 hours and is enjoyable for the whole family. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear, as the terrain can be uneven at times. The best months to visit are from November to April.
3. Coromandel Coastal Walkway
Medium (3 to 4 hours one way, 7 hours return)
The Coromandel Coastal Walkway links Stony Bay and Fletcher Bay over a 10km track. You can complete this walk one way and organise for a transport service to pick you up at either end, or you can choose to take the return trip, which will take the whole day.
The track itself is an easy climb and covers a variety of coastline, bush and farm terrains. The only steep bit is going in and out of Poley Bay, where you’ll get wonderful views of the Sugar Loaf, Pinnacles, and Great Barrier Island.
If you’ve only got time for a short walk, there’s a signposted lookout just over an hour’s walk from the start at Fletcher Bay, where you’ll still be rewarded with some epic views!
4. Mt. Paku Summit
Short (30 minutes)
This is a short but steep climb to the summit of Mt. Paku, a volcanic mountain that dominates the head of the Tairua Harbour.
A 15- to 20-minute walk from the car park will take you to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with views over Tairua, Pauanui, and the distant islands. The reward-to-effort ratio of the walk makes it a great option for a family activity.
While a few steep bits might involve a little bit of climbing, it’s a great and short adventure for the kids. An excellent way to round off the afternoon after the climb is to cool off at Tairua Beach and swim a bit.
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5. The Pinnacles
Long (Overnight/8 hours return)
The Pinnacles climb is by far one of the most famous walks in the region. The overnight option is popular among New Zealanders and international visitors, so it’s recommended to book the DOC hut books well in advance.
The first part of the walk will guide you up a steady slope through the bush and across streams and bridges, followed by a climb to the summit and finishing past the Billygoat at the Kaueranga River.
There are a few steep parts of the track and quite a number of stairs, so a fair level of fitness is usually advised for this walk. The Pinnacles is one of the most popular Coromandel day walks, so bring a camera (and lots of water) and enjoy!
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6. Wentworth Valley Walks
Short/medium (2.5 hours return)
Starting from the Wentworth Valley Campsite near Whangamata, this easy walk follows the Wentworth River, eventually leading to some spectacular falls with two 20-metre drops.
If you continue a little further to the top of the falls, you’ll find some caves (great entertainment for the kids) and stunning views of the coast.
This is an excellent spot for an afternoon picnic if you want to make a day of it. Keep an eye out for native birds along the way, and if you’re brave, pack your togs for a dip in one of the swimming holes on your way down.
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7. New Chums Beach Walk
Short (30 minutes one way)
This walk is the only way to access the beautiful New Chums Beach by land. Starting from Whangapoua Beach, the walk will take you across rocks and eventually lead to a short bush path.
There are no tricky bits, but remember to wear closed-toe shoes, as the track can get muddy and rough in some areas. Near the end of the track, you’ll see a turnoff that will lead you up to the lookout – this is easily missed but one to keep an eye out for as it’s often rated as the best part of the walk!
Here, you can also find the brilliant red Pōhutukawa trees. In the right conditions, it’s possible to haul your surfboard along with you for some excellent surf.
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8. Square Kauri Walk
Short (20 minutes return)
This is a good detour if you’re heading along the Coast Road to your holiday destination. At the end of the Tapu-Coroglen road, a short but steep walk will take you to a very unique Kauri Tree.
Suspected to be around 1,200 years old, the tree’s trunk is a rare square shape. The walk will also give you some great views of the Coromandel Ranges, and the fresh air will be sure to cure any car sickness from the journey!
A popular way to round off your Kauri visit is to take a snap hugging the special tree.
9. Karangahake Windows Walk
Short (1 hour return)
The kids will love this one! The Karangahake Windows Walk follows an old railway line and passes a series of caves and gold mining tunnels that are perfect for exploring.
Along the walk, you’ll get some breathtaking views of the Karangahake Gorge, see some historic abandoned buildings and machinery, and cross a number of suspension bridges. All in all, it’s bound to be an entertaining and educational walk for a great family day out; just remember to pack a torch.
Coromandel is home to many untouched forests, and conservation efforts are in place to protect native bush and wildlife. Extensive logging once saw the removal of many great Kauri trees around Driving Creek. However, there are still incredible places to experience the region’s natural wonders. Just be sure to respect the paths by following guidelines and cleaning your shoes.
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