Destination: Coromandel, New Zealand
Introduction
The Coromandel Peninsula lies on the eastern side of the Hauraki Gulf and offers some of the most beautiful and accessible cruising in New Zealand, with a rugged volcanic topography creating a succession of sheltered bays, clear water, white sand beaches, and dense native forest. Coromandel Town on the western shore is a popular stopover with good anchorage and a thriving arts community, while Mercury Bay and the eastern coast offer some of New Zealand's most famous beaches and the iconic Cathedral Cove. The peninsula is within a comfortable day's sail of Auckland.
GPS Coordinates
36° 45' 43.920"S 175° 29' 47.400"E
36 45 43.920S 175 29 47.400E
Protected Anchorages
Coromandel Harbour off the town is well-sheltered with good holding in mud in 4–6 metres; the inner basin has a drying jetty so check tides for deeper-drafted vessels. Port Charles at the northern tip provides an excellent anchorage in 6–10 metres over mud, sheltered from all directions. Mercury Bay at Whitianga has a full-service marina plus anchorage in 4–8 metres in the outer bay. Matarangi and Kuaotunu Bays on the eastern coast are beautiful shallow anchorages in 3–5 metres over sand suitable for settled weather.
Customs Protocols for Visiting Yachts
No customs facilities at Coromandel — international clearance must be completed at Auckland, Opua, or another designated Port of Entry before arriving here.
Yacht Clubs and Marinas in the Vicinity
- Coromandel Cruising Club
- Mercury Bay Boating Club (Whitianga)
- Whitianga Marina
Renowned Attractions
- Hot Water Beach — dig your own thermal spa pool on the beach at low tide, a uniquely New Zealand experience
- Cathedral Cove (Te Hoho Rock) — iconic natural sea arch and beach accessible only by boat or a 45-minute walk
- Driving Creek Railway and Potteries — narrow-gauge mountain railway and renowned pottery studio
- Coromandel Town arts scene — galleries, artisan food shops, and excellent smoked fish direct from local smokehouses
- Kuaotunu and Opito Bay — remote white sand beaches with minimal development, reachable by yacht
- Great Mercury Island (Ahuahu) — private island with spectacular Ohinau anchorage and magnificent scenery
- Wentworth Valley waterfall walk near Whangamatā — lush forest track to a beautiful swimming waterfall
Currency and Exchange Rate
Currency: New Zealand Dollar
Exchange Rate to USD
Nearby Yachting Destinations
Summary
The Coromandel Peninsula is a cruising gem within easy reach of Auckland — its pristine bays, dramatic volcanic scenery, iconic beaches, and relaxed arts-community pace make it a favourite destination for New Zealand sailors and visiting cruisers seeking beauty without remoteness.