Coromandel Township

Explore the unique art scene

Once a vibrant gold-mining and timber centre, the Coromandel Township is now one of the country's main arts and craft centres.

This laid-back town has attracted many artisans who enjoy its alternative lifestyle, native bush setting, and ardent conservation focus.

This creative community produces arts that range from pottery, sculpture, clothing and accessories, wood carving, doll-making, textiles, ironwork, painting, print-making and jewellery.

You can visit an artisan at work in their workshop and buy high quality arts and crafts at studio prices. Some of them also offer live-in tuition. Then there's the attractions.

The Driving Creek Railway and Potteries is a delightful way of experiencing the country’s only narrow-gauge railway with an opportunity to buy pottery by Barry Brickell. You’ll get to ride through replanted kauri forests and be awed by the panoramic Hauraki Gulf views.

All the family will get a kick out of the Waiau Waterpark — a large, peaceful garden filled with whimsical gadgets to play with, all worked by water.

For a taste sensation, visit the Castle Rock Winery in the Te Rerenga Valley which makes fruit and vegetable wines, pickles, mustards and chutneys.

And don't leave town without visiting the Coromandel Museum for a fascinating insight into the town's gold, kauri and farming history.