Coromandel &
Cathedral Cove Tours
Pristine beaches, native forest & natural wonders
The Coromandel Peninsula, located on New Zealand’s North Island, is renowned for its pristine beaches, lush native forest and laid-back charm. A favourite getaway for both locals and visitors to New Zealand, it offers a unique mix of natural beauty, art and adventure.
Why Book Coromandel Tours With Us
Curated for quality
We only feature Coromandel Tours with consistently excellent reviews
Trusted Local Operators
We partner exclusively with established and reputable tour providers
Guided Small Group Tours
Travel in comfort with experienced guides who share local insights and hidden gems
Year-Round Tours
Our top-rated Coromandel Tours run in every season
Best Price Guarantee
Book with confidence knowing you’re getting the best rate available
Getting There
Our Coromandel Day Tours include convenient pick-up from central Auckland. The 170-kilometre (approx. 105 mile) journey takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, winding through New Zealand’s lush countryside – rolling farmland, native bush and stunning coastal vistas. Along the way, you’ll pass scenic rivers and quaint rural towns, setting the perfect tone for exploring the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of the Coromandel Peninsula.
Best Coromandel Tours
Expertly curated Coromandel day tours from Auckland & top-rated experiences
Cathedral Cove, Hot Water Beach & Coromandel Small Group Day Tour from Auckland
Discover the best of the Coromandel on this fully-guided small group day tour from Auckland. Explore stunning Cathedral Cove, soak at Hot Water Beach and enjoy native bush walks and scenic coastal views. Led by expert guides, this relaxed yet adventure-filled trip offers an idyllic day retreat.
- To: Coromandel
- From: Auckland (return trip)
- Duration: Approx. 12 hours
- Price: From $265 NZD per adult
Coromandel Zipline Tours
Soar above the forest and stroll beneath native ferns on this unforgettable zipline adventure in the heart of Coromandel. Begin your journey with a scenic 15-minute railway ride before gliding across eight ziplines through a hand-planted native forest. Along the way, discover the area’s rich history from kauri logging to conservation and enjoy epic views of regenerating bush and thriving wildlife.
- Location: Coromandel
- Duration: Approx. 150 minutes
- Price: From $147 NZD per adult
Cathedral Cove & Coromandel Coastal Adventure Tour from Auckland
Uncover the untouched beauty of the Coromandel Peninsula on this small group day trip from Auckland. Walk to world-famous Cathedral Cove, explore stunning white-sand beaches like Te Pare, Cooks Beach or Lonely Bay and soak in sweeping coastal views on native bush walks. With passionate local guides, scenic drives and a flexible itinerary based on the best conditions of the day, this tour is the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
- To: Coromandel
- From: Auckland (return trip)
- Duration: Approx. 12 hours
- Price: From $250 NZD per adult
Coromandel Railway Tours
Climb aboard New Zealand’s only mountain railway for a 1 hour 15 minute journey through lush, regenerating native forest. Cross bridges, wind through tunnels and arrive at the spectacular EyeFull Tower lookout with sweeping views of the Hauraki Gulf. Along the way, learn the inspiring story of Barry Brickell - potter, conservationist and visionary behind this one-of-a-kind experience.
- Location: Coromandel
- Duration: Approx. 75 minutes
- Price: From $57 NZD per adult
Catamaran Sail Cruise from Flaxmil Bay, Coromandel
Sail around the beautiful coastline on our spacious catamaran Ka Pai. Visit local iconic locations, including the world famous Cathedral Cove. Once we set anchor relax on the boat, or have a swim or snorkel in the marine reserve with the amazing fish life. Every trip is different. Help to sail or sit back on our comfy beanbags, soak up the scenery and relax.
- From: Flaxmill Bay, Coromandel
- Duration: Approx. 3.5 hours
- Price: From $145 NZD per adult
Coromandel Pottery Classes
Unleash your creativity in this hands-on 1.5-hour pottery class led by a professional potter in the heart of Coromandel’s artistic hub. Learn the basics of wheel throwing, get messy with clay, and craft your own unique piece in a vibrant, inspiring setting. All materials and aprons provided. Option to have your creation glazed, fired and delivered in your chosen colour (additional cost).
- Location: Coromandel
- Duration: Approx. 90 minutes
- Price: From $67 NZD per adult
Latest Coromandel Updates 2025:
- Cathedral Cove was ranked #45 on the 2025 list of the World’s 50 Best Beaches – the only New Zealand beach to feature. This annual list is compiled from insights by over 1,000 travel professionals, beach ambassadors and media experts.
- The main walking track to Cathedral Cove reopened on 1 December 2024 and day tours from Auckland to Coromandel and Cathedral Cove available through Retreats Abroad have resumed, restoring seasonal overland access following weather-related closures.
- All Coromandel and Cathedral Cove Tours featured on Retreats Abroad are run by operators awarded with TripAdvisor’s 2024 Travellers’ Choice Award. This prestigious recognition places them in the top 10% of their category, reflecting outstanding traveler reviews, exceptional experiences and trusted recommendations.
Coromandel Tour FAQ
The journey from Auckland to the Coromandel Peninsula typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions. All tours include comfortable transport with scenic stops along the way.
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Swimwear and towel (for Hot Water Beach)
- Sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
- Water bottle (bottled water also provided on tours from Auckland)
- A light jacket (weather can change quickly)
- Optional: camera, change of clothes
Absolutely! The Coromandel, Cathedral Cove & Hot Water Beach Small Group Tour from Auckland, along with the Coromandel Railway Tour and Coromandel Zipline Tours are all family-friendly. Zipline tours have minimum age (6+) and weight restrictions, and children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult.
Access to Cathedral Cove requires a moderate level of fitness. The main walking track takes 30-45 minutes each way and includes some uneven terrain. Sturdy, closed-in footwear is essential. Alternatively, some tours offer boat access when weather and tide conditions allow.
Yes – the main track to Cathedral Cove reopened in December 2024, with ongoing safety protocols in place. Track access may be temporarily closed after heavy rain for safety reasons, but alternative options (such as scenic boat tours) are available.
Tours run in most weather conditions. However, access to some areas like Cathedral Cove’s walking track may be restricted during or after heavy rain. Your guide will adapt the itinerary to ensure a safe and enjoyable day regardless of conditions.
It’s New Zealand’s only mountain railway, created by renowned potter Barry Brickell. The tour includes bridges, tunnels, native forest and sweeping views from the EyeFull Tower, plus options to explore pottery, ziplining and art workshops on-site.
You can book tours online through the Retreats Abroad website, where you can choose from day tours from Auckland to Coromandel in addition to top-rated Coromandel experiences, such as Coromandel Zipline Tours and the famous Coromandel Railway Tour.
While Retreats Abroad offers set tour packages, you can inquire about booking a private tour by contacting us directly: hello@retreatsabroad.com
How We Select Our Coromandel Tours
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Why Retreats Abroad
Curated Experiences You Can Trust
We only feature top-rated experiences run by trusted hosts
Small Groups Led By Expert Guides
Explore deeper with local experts and like-minded travellers
Easy Booking & Best Prices
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Restore While You Explore
Discover the perfect balance of rejuvenation and adventure