One of the Best Coastal Walks in New Zealand
The Coromandel Coastal Walkway
The Coromandel Coastal Walkway, located at the tip of the remote Northern Coromandel, has become one of New Zealand’s most popular coastal walks. With a magical blend of regenerating native bush, rocky streams, craggy cliffs and open farmland, accompanied by seaviews for miles, this trail is Coromandel’s hidden gem.
The Walkway is best enjoyed as an out-and-back hike from Fletcher Bay, located at the tip of the Northern Coromandel. The standout point is the Lookout five kilometres in with its views across the Colville Channel to Great Barrier (Aotea) and beyond. The hike is well suited to those with average levels of fitness and over the years, we have seen it completed by young ones in backpacks to retirees in their 70’s.
The track surface varies from being a well worn, easier grade to a steeper section down and out of Poley Bay, where care is required. The Walk finishes with a stroll through open farmland complete with sheep and cattle lazing in the afternoon sun. We welcome you at the end with a scrumptious afternoon tea and the option to complete the Muriwai Walk along the clifftops or simply chill out on the beach after a refreshing swim.
It is important to note, to those wanting to self drive to the Walkway, our local roads should not be taken lightly. While the road from Coromandel to Colville is tarsealed, beyond that it becomes gravelly, narrow and winding. For some this drive can transform the day into more of a forgettable experience. Some rental car companies specifically exclude their cars from being driven on this particular road, so it would definitely pay to check to avoid any unexpected consequences.
Taking our tour leaves all the stress and worry to us and comes with the added bonus of all those not-to-be-missed highlights along the way. Plus we’ll even throw in a commentary with plenty of local knowledge and history, coupled with a blend of humour, so you can enjoy so much more about this intriguing area.
Tours depart from Coromandel at 8.30 a.m. returns 5.30 pm and Colville at 9.15 a.m., returns 4.30 pm. Pickup available along the way is by arrangement. All you need to do is bring your lunch and water for the hike along with suitable hiking gear and swimsuit, towel and camera.
