Colville: Discover History and Coastal Walks

Today, Colville is a quiet rural town that serves a local community of farmers and artists.

History and Walking Tracks

During the pioneering era, Colville was a busy timber town. In the 1970s, the area became a draw for hippies because of its natural beauty and remoteness. These chapters in its history differ greatly from Colville’s character today as a rural town.

The Colville Foreshore Walk passes farmland and wetlands. Look out for old pā sites in the hills. The track also offers opportunities to watch coastal birds feeding. The walk combines insights into the landscape with observations along the foreshore.

Coast and Nature Around Colville

Nearby Cape Colville includes regenerating native forest, dense bush, farmland and rocky stretches of coastline. The area includes both a highly protected area and a protected seabed area. Check the applicable rules before taking part in activities.

Nearby Port Jackson is a long, wide beach where camping and fishing are popular. Check camping and access conditions before travelling. Nearby Waikawau Bay also has a wide sandy beach suitable for swimming, diving and fishing. Water conditions there depend on the season and weather.

There are several walking tracks north of Colville, ranging from 20-minute walks to half-day hikes. The main difference between them is how much time you want to set aside for a short walk or a longer hike. Boats can be launched at various nearby locations, including Port Jackson and Fletcher Bay. Check local conditions and restrictions.

Plan Tours and Excursions

The Hike & Bike shuttle to Port Jackson departs from 76 Wharf Road in Colville. With Hike & Bike’s Port Jackson service, you can hire a bike or bring your own. You can add a 4 km return hike on the Coromandel Coastal Walkway to the tour. For a tour of the Walkway, Hike & Bike’s guided option or shuttle service departs from Colville. Check operating details, bike availability and possible excursion options before planning.

A loop walk to the historic Colville Cemetery and an old Māori fish trap passes a wetland and returns through Colville. The cemetery is about 25 km north of Colville. The fish trap is visible at low tide up to mid-tide; take tidal conditions into account when planning.

A Farm Shop in Colville

At the edge of Colville is Hereford 'n' a Pickle, a family-run farm shop. It offers freshly brewed coffee, cakes, biscuits, sandwiches, pickles, jams, chutneys and preserves. The meat and produce come directly from the family farm. Check which products are available and whether the farm shop is open before visiting.

Discover more destinations: Whangamata, Tapu, Tairua, Hot Water Beach, Hikuai, Te Puru, Coromandel, Whitianga.

For the broader travel overview: Thames-Coromandel District.