Coromandel Peninsula

A finger of land extending northward into the Hauraki Gulf east of Auckland, the Coromandel Peninsula is characterised by rugged interior forests, dramatic east-coast beaches, and small artisan communities. Cathedral Cove on the eastern shore features a large sea-carved limestone arch connecting two beaches, accessible by a coastal walking track. Hot Water Beach, a few kilometres south, allows visitors to dig thermal pools in the sand at low tide.