Coromandel Peninsula is an amazing landscape of a mountainous, forest-covered backbone, with the Pacific Ocean on the east, and the sheltered bays and coves of the Hauraki Gulf on the west. Spend the day in this unique area steeped in history associated with kauri logging, gold mining and stunning coastlines. Drive south-east of Auckland through Thames and along the spectacular western coast road that leads to Coromandel township, where renowned New Zealand potter, Barry Brickell has his studio. Ride his mountain railway system on a memorable journey through the rugged landscape. Our next stop is for a quiet stroll in the pristine rainforest to view some of the magnificent kauri trees which once covered the Coromandel Peninsula. The journey continues across the mountain divide and descends towards the east coast beaches where we stop for lunch. Visit Hot Water Beach with its hot spring in the middle of the beach and take a dip if you wish. A short drive away is Cathedral Cove, where the Pacific Ocean washes through a natural arch onto a white sandy beach backed by white cliffs. There is a half hour downhill walk to the beach from here which means of course the walk back is uphill! Our journey home to Auckland heads back over the hills by a different route.