Discover the Thames-Coromandel District

Dramatic topography, coastline, native forests and diverse coastal settlements shape the Thames-Coromandel District. About 2,000 hectares are made up of parks and protected areas. This offers a range of possible focuses for a trip: cycling, hiking, nature experiences or the history of Thames. If you’re looking for a holiday rental, you can first consider which of these sides of the district you’d like to shape your holiday. Experiences range from longer cycling trails to cultural sites and walking tracks in the immediate area.

Explore cycling trails and landscapes

The Hauraki Rail Trail is 160 km long and extends across the Thames-Coromandel, Hauraki and Matamata-Piako districts. One specifically named section runs from Thames to Paeroa: it is 34 km long and passes through lush farmland. When planning your trip, you can distinguish between the full route of the cycle trail and this specific section. The landscape along the section and its length can help guide your route choice, without implying a particular travel time.

Nearby, the Wentworth Falls Walk is an easy, three-kilometre route along the Wentworth River to Wentworth Falls. Along the way, there are two bridged crossings and a lookout point over the waterfalls. Another nearby walk is the Wentworth Mines Walk, which leads to a picnic area with views of two mine shafts. The Wharekirauponga Track in the Parakiwai Valley and Royal Standard Goldmine area follows an old horse-drawn tramway. These walks offer different themes for a day’s hiking: waterfalls, mining history or a historic route.

Culture and history in Thames and Coromandel

The Thames School of Mines complex is nationally significant as a rare and well-preserved example of its kind. The site also has spiritual, cultural and archaeological significance and is especially important to Ngati Maru. This makes it a special destination for travellers who want to learn about a place’s history and cultural significance as well as enjoy its landscapes and activities.

The Thames Pillar Boxes are located in the centre of Thames. Thames is an important historic settlement and visitor centre on the Coromandel Peninsula. Much of the area around the Pillar Boxes is part of the Grahamstown Historic Heritage Area, identified in the proposed District Plan. Another historic landmark in town is the Band Rotunda in Victoria Park. It has been used for musical performances and related events for over a century; this long history of use shapes its cultural character.

At Coromandel Town, Driving Creek brings together a range of activities: railway rides, ziplining, pottery classes and a native conservation park. The railway runs through 60 acres of regenerating native bush to the EyeFull Tower Lookout. From there, you can enjoy sweeping views over Coromandel Town and the Hauraki Gulf. You can choose between creative activities, a nature experience and views over the town and gulf.

Places in the district

For further orientation in the Thames-Coromandel District: Whitianga, Pauanui, Coromandel, Thames, Tairua, Whangamata, Hahei, Opoutere, Hot Water Beach, Te Puru, Kuaotunu, Opito Bay, Tapu, Matarangi, Hikutaia, Colville, Whenuakite, Hikuai and Cooks Beach.

For the broader travel overview: Waikato.