Thames-Coromandel District: Coast and Heritage

In the Thames-Coromandel District, you’ll find everything from cycling trails and historic sites to coastal landscapes and native forests. Dramatic topography and diverse coastal settlements define the district, along with around 2,000 hectares of parks and protected areas. When choosing a hotel, you could first consider whether cycling, heritage or landscapes will be the focus of your trip. The district’s towns and experiences offer different points of reference.

Cycling the Hauraki Rail Trail

The Hauraki Rail Trail is 160 kilometres long and spans the Thames-Coromandel, Hauraki and Matamata-Piako districts. A 34-kilometre section runs from Thames to Paeroa through lush farmland.

Heritage in Thames

The Thames School of Mines complex is nationally significant as a rare and well-preserved example of its kind. The site has spiritual, cultural and archaeological significance and is especially important to Ngāti Maru. The Thames Pillar Boxes are in the centre of Thames, an important historic settlement and visitor hub on the Coromandel Peninsula. Much of their surroundings form part of the Grahamstown Historic Heritage Area, which is designated in the proposed District Plan. The Band Rotunda in Victoria Park is also part of Thames’ cultural heritage: it has been used for musical performances and related events for more than a century.

Nearby walks

In the vicinity of the destination, the nearby Wentworth Falls Walk follows an easy three-kilometre route along the Wentworth River to Wentworth Falls. The route includes two bridged crossings and a lookout over the falls. Check current track conditions and for possible storm damage before visiting. The nearby Wentworth Mines Walk also leads to a picnic area overlooking two mine shafts. In the vicinity, the nearby Wharekirauponga Track runs through Parakiwai Valley and the Royal Standard Goldmine area along an old horse-drawn tramway. The three walks offer different highlights: waterfalls and a river, a picnic area overlooking mine shafts, or an old horse-drawn tramway.

Coromandel Town: Driving Creek

Driving Creek in Coromandel Town offers railway rides, ziplining, pottery classes and a native conservation park. The railway passes through 60 acres of regenerating native bush to the EyeFull Tower Lookout, which offers expansive views over Coromandel Town and the Hauraki Gulf. Check current operating and booking information before making specific plans.

Explore more destinations: Whitianga, Pauanui, Coromandel, Thames, Tairua, Whangamata, Hahei, Opoutere, Hot Water Beach, Te Puru, Kuaotunu, Opito Bay, Tapu, Matarangi, Hikutaia, Colville, Whenuakite, Hikuai, Cooks Beach

For the broader travel overview: Waikato.