Māori spirits called me back to Aotearoa for a conference in Auckland last week. Three days of appointments and workshops later, I picked up a Toyota RAV4 from Go rentals (courtesy of our ground operator Southern World) and hit the road for a two-day discovery of the legendary Coromandel peninsula.
While distances in New Zealand are rather short, the time needed to master them is greatly misleading as roads constantly twist and turn. Stunning coastal views from many vantage points make it totally worth your while as the approach of the “slow travel movement” is tailored for this destination. After a quick airport run to drop off my colleague Stephen, I hit route 1 South for a few miles, then turned east to Thames and onward along the left side of the peninsula to the town of Coromandel. The total distance was 48 miles in 3hrs and 15 minutes. With the expert guidance from Southern World’s guides and instructions, it was a breeze for me, and frankly any traveler placed in their hands by a seasoned travel advisor.
At the very end of the road, beyond the charming mining town center, you find New Zealand’ first full time pottery studio and narrow gauge railway. This eclectic venue recently expanded with a Zip Line offering to attract visitors of any age.
Checked in at my local Anchor Motel, I walked around town, window shopping at local artisans, and browsing realtor offerings, before grabbing a bar stool at the historic Star & Garter Hotel and Pub. Half a dozen local Oysters, endearing chats with locals later, my main dish of fresh green lipped mussels in garlic white wine and cream sauce arrived. All local, all fresh, fantastic!
Stay tuned for more coastal adventures tomorrow as road closures due to the 24 hour storm all day yesterday will make my journey tomorrow one into the unknown.
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