About The Coromandel
The area was formerly known largely for its gold and coal mining and kauri industries, but is now a mecca for tourism, especially ecotourism. A forest park occupies much of the centre of the peninsula, and the coasts are dotted with fine beaches and stunning views. The Moehau Ranges even have an elusive monster, The Hairy Moehau, which is quite a popular attraction with tourists.
The opening scenes of Prince Caspian were shot in the town of Hahei, north of Whangamata. The set for the ruins of the castle Cair Paravel was built on the nearby Hereherataura Peninsula, overlooking Cathedral Cove. This scenic crescent of white sand is famous for its dramatic natural rock arch. You can reach the cove via the Hahei Coastal Walkway, a hilly walk (45min) that starts off Hahei Beach Road and leads along bush-lined ridges, affording sweeping seaviews along the way.
Evidence of the regions geothermal origins can be found in hot springs, notably at Hot Water Beach on the peninsula's east coast. The town of Whangamata is a popular holiday retreat, and Whitianga on Mercury Bay is renowned for its yachting. The peninsula's waters are also a popular destination for scuba divers.
The Coromandel Peninsula lies in the North Island of New Zealand. It is part of the Waikato region and extends 85 kilometres north from the western end of the Bay of Plenty, forming a natural barrier to protect the Hauraki Gulf and the Firth of Thames in the west from the Pacific Ocean to the east.
At its broadest point, it is 40 kilometres wide. Almost the entire population lies on the narrow strips along the Hauraki Gulf and Bay of Plenty coasts. The country's biggest city, Auckland, lies on the far shore of the Hauraki Gulf, 55 kilometres to the west. The peninsula is clearly visible from the city in fine winter weather.