19. Coromandel Coastal Walkway

Overview

The Coromandel Coastal Walkway is widely regarded as one of New Zealand's most spectacular coastal day hikes. Located at the remote northern tip of the Coromandel Peninsula, the trail follows an historic bridle path between Stony Bay and Fletcher Bay, offering dramatic ocean panoramas, rugged cliffs, native forest, secluded beaches, rolling farmland, and views of offshore islands scattered across the Pacific Ocean. (New Zealand)

Often described as a hidden gem that rivals New Zealand's famous Great Walks, the route showcases some of the most untouched scenery in the country while remaining accessible to walkers with moderate fitness levels. (Hauraki Coromandel GOOD FOR YOUR SOUL)

Trail Overview

(New Zealand)

Why It's Famous

Spectacular Coastal Scenery

The trail offers constantly changing scenery, including:

• Rugged coastal cliffs

• Hidden coves and bays

• Native bushland

• Rolling farmland

• Remote beaches

• Offshore islands

• Pacific Ocean vistas

Many visitors consider the views among the finest coastal landscapes in New Zealand. On clear days, hikers can see Great Barrier Island (Aotea Island), Cuvier Island (Repanga Island), and the vast Hauraki Gulf. (Govt.nz)

Route Highlights

Stony Bay

The eastern trailhead at Stony Bay is a peaceful coastal location surrounded by farmland and native vegetation.

Highlights include:

• Quiet beach setting

• DOC campground

• Scenic coastal views

• Good starting point for sunrise walks

(Hauraki Coromandel GOOD FOR YOUR SOUL)

Poley Bay

Approximately halfway along the route lies Poley Bay, one of the most scenic sections of the walk.

Features include:

• Dramatic coastal scenery

• Picnic opportunities

• Ocean viewpoints

• Excellent photography locations

Many hikers stop here for lunch before continuing toward Fletcher Bay.

Important: Swimming at Poley Bay is not recommended due to submerged rocks and hazardous conditions. (Govt.nz)

Mount Moehau Views

The trail passes beneath the shadow of Mount Moehau, one of the most sacred mountains in the Coromandel.

The mountain is known for:

• Māori cultural significance

• Native forest ecosystems

• Rare wildlife habitat

• Remote wilderness character

Local legends and stories surrounding the mountain add a unique cultural dimension to the hike. (New Zealand)

Fletcher Bay

The western end of the trail finishes at Fletcher Bay.

Highlights include:

• Beautiful beach scenery

• DOC campground

• Sunset views

• Relaxed coastal atmosphere

Many walkers choose shuttle transport so they can walk one-way and finish at Fletcher Bay without retracing their steps. (Hauraki Coromandel GOOD FOR YOUR SOUL)

Landscape Diversity

One reason the Coastal Walkway is so highly rated is the variety of terrain encountered along a relatively short route.

Visitors experience:

Native Forest

• Regenerating bushland

• Native birds

• Fern-filled gullies

• Coastal vegetation

Farmland

• Open rolling hills

• Grazing livestock

• Traditional Coromandel landscapes

Rugged Coastline

• Rocky shorelines

• Ocean cliffs

• Hidden bays

• Spectacular viewpoints

(Hauraki Coromandel GOOD FOR YOUR SOUL)

Wildlife

Nature enthusiasts may encounter:

• Tūī

• Kererū (native wood pigeon)

• Fantails

• Seabirds

• Native coastal plants

The remote location helps preserve a rich natural environment with relatively little human disturbance. (Hauraki Coromandel GOOD FOR YOUR SOUL)

Photography Opportunities

Popular photography subjects include:

• Ocean panoramas

• Coastal cliffs

• Offshore islands

• Native bush

• Poley Bay

• Mount Moehau

• Sunrise and sunset landscapes

The elevated sections of the trail provide some of the best viewpoints in the northern Coromandel. (Hauraki Coromandel GOOD FOR YOUR SOUL)

Getting There

The walkway lies beyond the small settlement of Colville and requires driving on remote roads.

Access options include:

• Self-drive to Stony Bay or Fletcher Bay

• Guided hiking tours

• Shuttle transfers

• Transport services from Coromandel Town

The roads north of Colville are scenic but include long gravel sections. Many visitors prefer using local shuttle services. (Hauraki Coromandel GOOD FOR YOUR SOUL)

Current Track Status

⚠️ The Coromandel Coastal Walkway has experienced periodic closures and restrictions due to storm damage and extreme weather events. Visitors should always check current conditions with the Department of Conservation before travelling. Recent updates have noted closures and repairs on parts of the route. (Hauraki Coromandel GOOD FOR YOUR SOUL)

Essential Tips

Bring

• Plenty of water

• Sun protection

• Hiking shoes

• Windproof jacket

• Camera

• Snacks or lunch

Know Before You Go

• Limited facilities along the track

• No shops on the route

• Mobile coverage may be limited

• Weather can change quickly

• Allow extra travel time on gravel roads

(Hauraki Coromandel GOOD FOR YOUR SOUL)

Why It's a Must-Do

✅ One of New Zealand's most beautiful coastal walks✅ Spectacular Pacific Ocean views throughout the hike✅ Remote and uncrowded wilderness experience✅ Views of Great Barrier Island and Cuvier Island✅ Native forest, farmland, beaches, and cliffs in a single walk✅ Excellent photography opportunities✅ Rich Māori history and natural heritage✅ Perfect for hikers seeking a less-commercialized Coromandel adventure

Best For

• Hikers

• Nature lovers

• Landscape photographers

• Adventure travelers

• Birdwatchers

• Visitors seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences

Travel Tip

For the best experience, arrange a one-way shuttle transfer and walk from Stony Bay to Fletcher Bay. This allows you to enjoy the full 10 km route without needing to retrace your steps, leaving more time to appreciate the breathtaking coastal scenery and remote beauty of the northern Coromandel Peninsula. (New Zealand)