The Coromandel Peninsula is a cycling gem lying east of Auckland in one of New Zealand's most diverse and breathtaking locations. Luxuriant forest and mountain backdrops set the scene. See a giant kauri tree and ride a bush railway. A farm stay will give you the opportunity to meet some real "Kiwis". Finish at the geothermal spa town of Rotorua with the opportunity to experience the local Maori culture.
Tour Itinerary
Day 1: The first day of our trip is designed to allow visitors to settle in. Your tour leader will hold a trip orientation meeting prior to lunch. Time will be set aside to fit you to your Pedaltours rental bike or unpack your own and take a short ride along the harbourside. We meet at 12.00 noon at The Sebel (4 star hotel), cnr Hobson and Custom St West, (on the waterfront), Downtown, Auckland. (L), (D)
Day 2: After breakfast we leave the city by our company’s minibus and head for the village of Clevedon on the edge of the Hunua Ranges. It is here we start cycling on quiet roads. On reaching the coast at Kawakawa Bay we will have our first sight of the Peninsula with the Coromandel Ranges rising steeply from the sea. Continuing south down the Firth of Thames the narrow road hugs the coast on its way to Miranda Bird Sanctuary. There are two climbs today with a final flat run from Miranda. (B), (L), (D)
Day 3: We visit a working historic Gold Mine before heading north past many pohutukawa trees leaning over the road and beach. The butterfly and orchid centre at Tararu is well worth a visit.
At Tapu we turn inland to visit the picturesque Rapaura Water Gardens and have lunch. Returning to the coast there are two hills to climb - with great views - before the final descent to Coromandel. The town once flourished as a goldmining town; now it is a centre for crafts-people and 'alternative lifers'. Some of the old houses have been beautifully restored. (B), (L)
Day 4: This morning we take a ride on the Driving Creek Bush Railway and have the opportunity to view locally made pottery. Crossing the range to the east side of the peninsula, we have magnificent coastal views and great riding down to the seaside village of Whitianga. Lunch is not provided today, but there is a selection of cafes in Whitianga. (B), (D)
Day 5: This morning we take the ferry to Flaxmill Bay. Past Purangi Vineyards, we head for Hahei where we can laze on the beach or walk to magnificent Cathedral Cove. After lunch we visit Hot Water beach where the natural mineral water rises through the sand. Those who have the energy can tackle the Pumpkin Hill climb with its views of Shoe and Slipper Islands and enjoy a great descent to Tairua before continuing around Tairua Harbour towards Whangamata.
Day 6: Leaving the coast, we head inland through Karangahake Gorge to the Waikato Valley and south in the lee of the Kaimai Range. We will have an attractive, varied route - gently undulating. An interesting diversion is to take the Historic Walkway (disused railway) through the gorge – you will need to walk a short distance through a tunnel. We are guests tonight of a local farming family. (B), (D)
Day 7: A long gentle climb takes us to the bush clad Mamaku Plateau and a great descent, with panoramic views, to the thermal district of Rotorua. In the afternoon we will have time for some optional extras, such as the Agrodome (a sheep farming theme park) and a visit to the boiling mud pools and geysers for which Rotorua is renowned. (B), (D)
Day 8: Rotorua has much to offer: geysers and bubbling mud pools, a 4WD trip up Mt Tarawera, rafting, the Buried Village, the Green and Blue Lakes (a 32km cycle ride), fishing and, of course, shopping. It is here we must say farewell, a safe journey home and hope to see you again.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price includes:
-7 breakfasts
- 4 lunches
- 5 dinners
- Fully supported tour by comfortable mini van with a seat for everyone
- Purpose built trailer to carry bikes
- Knowledgeable friendly local guide
- Accommodation in mostly 3-star resorts, hotels and motels. Some 4-star
- Accommodation. An emphasis on individual, friendly lodges where available
- Dinner most nights
- Cooked breakfasts every day
- Picnic or café lunches some days
- Pedaltours cycling jersey or T-shirt
- Wine with final dinner, and wine and cheese briefings every 2-3 days
- Daily Maps, with profiles, one per cyclist, plus South Island map
Drink bottles, two
Price Excludes:
- Alcohol other than specified
- Flights
- Sightseeing other than specified
Cycle hire is an additional charge.
Note: There is a 10% discount on November/December trips.
Also see tour packages in:
Australia and Oceania
New Zealand
Bicycle Touring
Ecotourism
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