About Your Journey
Discover the landscapes, stories and hidden gems of New Zealand’s East Coast.
Escape to the golden beaches, charming seaside towns, and spectacular coastal scenery of the Coromandel on this relaxed six-day getaway.
Cruise across the Hauraki Gulf, ride the unique Driving Creek Railway, and explore the stunning coastline around Cathedral Cove on a scenic glass-bottom boat cruise. Along the way, discover the region's rich gold-mining history, enjoy time in picturesque beach communities, and soak up the laid-back atmosphere that makes the Coromandel so special.
Your journey concludes in Rotorua, where geothermal wonders and Māori culture provide a memorable finale to this classic Kiwi escape.
Itinerary
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Cruise across the Hauraki Gulf to Coromandel Town, stopping at Man O' War Winery on Waiheke Island for lunch in a spectacular coastal setting. Visit the historic Gold Stamper Battery before dinner and overnight in Coromandel Town.
Included: L, D -
Ride the famous Driving Creek Railway through native forest, tunnels, and bridges to the EyeFull Tower lookout. Continue via Matarangi to Whitianga and visit the Mercury Bay Museum. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon at leisure.
Included: B
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Experience a scenic Glass Bottom Boat tour exploring the spectacular coastline around Cathedral Cove. Enjoy lunch at Mercury Bay Estate before visiting Hahei Beach and Cooks Beach.
Included: B, L
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Travel south along the Coromandel coastline, stopping in the beach communities of Tairua and Pauanui. Arrive in Whangamatā with free time to relax before dinner.
Included: B, D
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Learn about Waihi's fascinating gold-mining history before travelling inland to Rotorua. Enjoy free time before dinner at the hotel.
Included: B, D
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Visit the living Māori village of Whakarewarewa, where geothermal activity and culture come together in a unique setting. Continue to Skyline Rotorua for lunch overlooking Lake Rotorua before returning to Auckland.
Included: B, L
A relaxing escape through the Coromandel's golden coast
Reserve your place on this unforgettable tour. Numbers are limited, so don’t delay.
Why you’ll love this trip
Travelwise has carefully crafted this journey to showcase the very best of the Coromandel and Rotorua at a relaxed and enjoyable pace. Comfortable accommodation, scenic ferry crossings, unique rail journeys, coastal cruising, and fascinating local experiences are all seamlessly arranged, allowing you to simply relax and enjoy the journey.
Your dedicated Tour Leader, Catherine Stewart, brings decades of travel industry experience and a genuine passion for discovering New Zealand. With her friendly nature, extensive cruising and touring expertise, and thoughtful attention to detail, Catherine ensures every traveller feels welcomed and well looked after. From golden beaches and native forests to geothermal wonders and charming coastal towns, this journey celebrates some of New Zealand's most spectacular landscapes and unforgettable experiences.
Inclusions & Activities
Ferry: Enjoy a ferry journey from Auckland to Coromandel, stopping at Waiheke Island en route
Coach touring: Relax with comfortable coach touring
Accommodation: 5 nights quality accommodation throughout
Sightseeing: All sightseeing and attractions as shown, including Driving Creek Railway journey, Cathedral Cove glass bottom boat cruise and more
Meals: Daily breakfasts plus lunches and dinners as specified
Transfers: Home pick up and drop off in Auckland Metro area
Tour Leader: Travelwise Tour Leader throughout, plus local guides
Catherine Stewart, Tour Leader
Your Tour Leader
Catherine Stewart
Catherine is a knowledgeable, enthusiastic Tour Leader at Travelwise who turns every trip into a delightful adventure. Catherine’s calm professionalism and storytelling flair make her the ideal guide for travellers who want to relax and soak it all in.
Before you book, you should know
Activity Level 1: A gentle pace with relaxed sightseeing and regular breaks. Suitable for travellers comfortable with short walks, light touring, a few stairs, and independently boarding coaches, trains and boats.
Departure: Sunday 21 February 2027
Other Notes:
Deposit: $500 per person
Final Balance Payment due: 17 December 2026
Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended at time of deposit.