Discover Coromandel Town
Coromandel Town, also known as Kapangai, is a charming and historic town located on the west side of the Coromandel Peninsula. Situated about two-thirds of the way up the Firth of Thames coast from Thames on State Highway 25, it lies on the edge of Coromandel Harbour. One of the highlights of visiting this town is witnessing the stunning sunset views from the northern end of the harbour.
A Glimpse into the Past
The town is known for its well-preserved 1800s-style shops, galleries, and eateries. Originally developed to support gold mining, the town's remoteness and lack of industry after the gold ran out left it in a time warp. This has fostered a focus on arts and crafts, with the area becoming known for its alternative lifestyles and quirky attractions. The nearby Driving Creek Railway and Waterworks are must-visit attractions that reflect this distinctive heritage.
There are also many places to explore near the town. Wyuna Bay is perfect for picnics, swimming, and boating. Several local walking tracks, including the Kauri Block, Kaipawa Trig, Harray Track, and the Long Bay Kauri Walk, are opportunities for outdoor adventures. The Long Bay Kauri Walk leads to one of the oldest kauri trees on the peninsula.
Exploring the Peninsula
Coromandel Town serves as an excellent base for exploring the peninsula, lying on the northwestern end of State Highway 25, which loops around the peninsula. To the north, Colville Road provides access to the peninsula's northwest tip at Port Jackson and Cape Colville. To the northeast, you can take Kennedy Bay Road to Kennedy Bay, then continue on to Port Charles and Stony Bay.
The Rugged 309 Road
The remote and rugged 309 Road is another point of interest. This mostly metal road begins 6 km south of the town from State Highway 25 and winds across the peninsula, reconnecting with State Highway 25 south of Whitianga. Along the way, you can visit the Waterworks, Waiau Falls, and the nearby Waiau Kauri Grove. For a more challenging tramp, consider a side trip to Moutere / Castle Rock.
Historical Significance
Coromandel Town was named after HMS Coromandel, which arrived in the harbour in 1820 to collect kauri ship spars. Kauri logging and milling led to a European presence on Whanganui Island, the largest island at the harbour's entrance. Although the government initially planned to build the town on the island in the 1850s, practical challenges led to its establishment at the harbour's north end.
Gold Rush Legacy
The town's establishment coincided with the first gold discovery on the Coromandel Peninsula in 1852, when brothers Charles and Fredrick Ring found gold flakes at Driving Creek. Although the initial rush lasted only 30 days due to limited gold, more discoveries followed in the early 1860s, particularly around Matawai Stream, about 10 km southeast of the town. At least eleven gold mines operated from 1869 until the 1900s, with the Matawai Mine being the largest. The town's gold mining history is still evident today.
Getting to Coromandel Town
To reach Coromandel Town from Auckland, take the southern motorway to State Highway 2, where you head east to the Coromandel. This connects with State Highway 25 at Kopu, south of Thames. Head north through Thames and then along the Firth of Thames coast of the peninsula to the town. The drive is 180 km and takes around 140 minutes.
