The Best Places to Stay in Coromandel, New Zealand

It may be a stiff walk – or short drive – down to the beach and the town proper, but this hotel just outside Coromandel Town is across the street from three of the most popular attractions in the area: the Driving Creek Railway, Coromandel Zipline Tours and pottery classes at Driving Creek Pottery. However, nobody will judge you if you choose to stay in for the day; the six wooden cabins are hidden in a tranquil fairy garden full of trees, ferns and birdsong. Bring your birdwatching binoculars.

The wagon wheels out front are a clue to the theme here; the two rows of white-painted, Victorian-style cottages that make up this Coromandel hotel are reminiscent of the town’s mining past. However, today, instead of spending your days panning for gold, you can go fishing, hiking, beachcombing or shopping. Afterwards, take a dip in the pool before making dinner in your fully equipped kitchen and vegging out with Sky TV. Aren’t you glad you’re not a Victorian miner?

That rainfall shower feels more real when you step onto the deck afterwards and find yourself surrounded by dense forest. You almost want to use the seclusion here on the mountain slopes as an excuse to finally write that book. Almost. But there’s an outdoor heated pool to lounge by, a tennis court to play on, hiking and biking to be done, and a restaurant and bar with ocean views. Then, after a steep stroll down, there’s the glorious Pauanui Beach.

It’s hard enough to find Coromandel hotels that will welcome your dog, so when you find one like this, you’ve hit the jackpot. This collection of Polynesian-style villas on the Tairua River estuary becomes waterfront accommodation when the tide comes in, creating the perfect place to launch your kayak or paddleboard. Then, when the tide is out, there’s a wide beach for people and pups to explore. Hungry? Throw something together in the fully equipped kitchen, or take a few steps up the street to order a bite.

Escape to a private island where you can laze on the beach, kayak in crystalline waters or hike to the top of dramatic cliffs – you know you want to. It’s no wonder that according to the archaeologists, some of the first Māori to come to Aotearoa decided to settle on this island they named Whakahau. The resort will send a boat to pick you up, and you’ll need to bring all of your supplies – don’t forget snorkelling gear and a kite. But does glamping get better than this? Unlikely.

Admiralty Lodge is a laid-back motel in Whitianga, right next to the beach. It offers an array of comfortable facilities, and the rooms have some incredible views of the picturesque Mercury Bay and Buffalo Beach. Several of the units can interconnect to accommodate families and large travelling groups. Cooked and continental breakfasts are delivered at your door upon request, along with a complimentary newspaper.

True to its name, you’ll find the Beachfront Resort next to Buffalo Beach in Whitianga. Most of the eight self-contained apartment units on-site come with stunning sea views and private patios (the west-facing beachside unit is the only exception). Free guest facilities include beach kayaks, bodyboards, a heated spa pool, plus a beach bar and barbecue deck for those nights you want to chill out on the premises.

Hot Water Beach Top 10 Holiday Park offers a wide range of accommodation options for those exploring the Coromandel Peninsula. The park has campsites, motel units, a series of deluxe cabins and ensuite villas, and an apartment. It’s an ideal place for families looking for a treat and travellers looking for something more budget-friendly. On top of that, there are communal dining and barbecue areas on-site, plus a cafe and takeaway restaurant for those who need a break from fixing their own meals.

Tatahi Lodge Beach Resort is within walking distance of Hahei Beach and the world-famous Cathedral Cove archway. Native trees and subtropical gardens surround the property, and the rooms feature local artwork. Room options include self-catering apartments with two bedrooms, a free-standing garden cottage, a garden studio and a modern beach villa.