It’s the name of a well known New Zealand peninsula, the Coromandel, a typically sun-filled sanctuary with strong eco values. And on the western side of that Coromandel peninsula, along the stunning Pōhutakawa coast, sits the delightful Coromandel Town.
International connections, Māori heritage, gold rushes, striking art and engineering…
It’s named after HMS Coromandel, a British ship that popped in for some kauri. Back in the days when the timber was for sale. And that same British ship was named after India’s Coromandel Coast. International connectivity is not so new after all.
And there’s a much earlier history of Māori settlement. Surrounded by all the kai moana (seafood), it’s little wonder it seemed like a mighty fine spot for that ship to pull up at. (And it still is today!) On the outskirts of the town there’s a walk that leads you to the top of a pā (fortified village) site, with incredible views all around you.
Coromandel Town’s a character filled spot, reflecting the artistic influences of the region. A feeling of old world charm, colonial touches, and relative isolation. And, like Thames down the road (once New Zealand’s most populous town), it shares a gold boom past. Gold was first discovered in 1852, at Driving Creek.
World famous in New Zealand, Driving Creek is now best known for the country’s only narrow-gauge mountain railway, not to mention New Zealand’s steepest railway, travelling through regenerating native forest. With loads of pottery sculptures lining the track, this extremely popular attraction - train, natural conservation zone, sculpture and pottery - is the legacy of celebrated potter Barry Brickell, a longtime Coromandel Town icon.
So, while its gold rush days are no longer, there’s still plenty of other treasures for you to find in and around Coromandel Town…
First up seafood, of course, you’re in a seaside town
Yes, the sea is right there. And within a stone’s throw of the town centre, many spot-on seafood finds…
Nothing quite matches pitching up for fresh as fresh seafood, stunning chowders, cooked oysters and mussels, to enjoy right there just a wee way over to the water. And a chance to take some back to home base at the end of the day too.
And more besides
But you’re not limited to seafood… In that delightful town you’ll also find classic butchers (with perhaps Coromandel mussel sausages, even), and lovely local cafes. You can enjoy the range from rustic natural garden spots through to slick central town abodes, and all of these finds honouring the vegetable. Not that the meat eater would necessarily realise, given the delicious options available.
So sit in the garden, or in the courtyard. Take a moment. Enjoy. You’re in the Coromandel, and the town that bears its name. It’s part quirky, part alternative, sustainable, and some might even say slightly eccentric. But any which way, we’re sure it’s good for you.
One for home base
Surrounded by local mussels, it’s natural to dream of mussel fritters, a real kiwi classic. But those classic butcher mussel sausages got us thinking…
Here’s a simple variation…. mussel meatballs, not quite a sausage, and a delightful mouthful like the ideal fritter. A perfect one when you’re on the road and after an easy one for the campfire or the mini kitchen…
If oysters are more you’re thing, here’s a soupy oyster stew idea. Yes, you’re spoilt for choice on the seafood front around here…
And for more
For more on The FoodPath NZ’s handpicked eateries and artisans, for our collection of spot on New Zealand food moments, classic kiwi food experiences closest to you, download our food trail guides here.