Taking Route One south of Aucklandand turning east on Route 2 north of
Pokeno heads you toward the Coromandel Peninsula the playground for the
city of Auckland. Crossing the plains below th Firth of Thames after
tsking the left hand split in the road of Route 25 you will come to a
narrow one way bridge over the Waihou River and enter the Coromandel
Peninsula country.
Turning north it is 6 kms to Thames one of the major towns in this
area. If you need supplies this is a good place to stock up before
going further.
Continuing north on Route 25 you will experience some of the most
beautiful coast line in the North Island along the Firth of Thames with
the Coromandel Forest on your right. The road twists and turns finally
arriving in Coromandel Town. A stop and stay here is recommended. Great
shops and cafes to enjoy in this small quaint community.
If you like to explore go on north all the way to Cape Colville. Not
too many take the time to explore this far so the wilderness is still
there. On your return at Coromandel continue
Route 25 east and come down the east side of the Coromandel. here you
will drive through interesting country until reaching the town of
Whitianga. This is a town being covered with the retired rich. Hurrying
on for an interesting side trip south of there turn at Whenuakite for
the few kms to Hot Water Beach. Dig yuorself a hole and enjoy. Have a
look at the Moko Gallery there also. One of the best in the country.
Route 25 continues south twisting in and out from the sea until you get
to Whangamata another town overrun with Auckland refugees. If you
really wan to see the real Coromandel take the road to Opoutere and go
to the beach. This is a very special place and one you just want to
stay. Not many people out here except those who love nature.
You have now been up one coast and down the other of the Coromandel
Peninsula and will soon be climbing out and hitting the flat land
again. The town of Waihi is ahead....................
