Coromandel Day Trip Itineraries from Auckland by Ferry
Three Easy Ways to Spend a Day in Coromandel Town Without Driving from Auckland
You do not need a whole weekend to enjoy Coromandel. With the Explore Group ferry from Auckland’s Viaduct to Hannaford’s Wharf, our free shuttle into town and a hire car or scooter from Mad Campers (located in James & Turner), a day trip is easy and relaxed.
The ferry runs from Labour Weekend until Easter, Friday to Monday, then daily from 27th November, so check the timetable for a sailing that suits a day trip. Here are three itineraries to inspire you!
1. History and Harbour (by Scooter)
This one suits anyone who loves a good wander. Take the ferry, hop on the free shuttle into Coromandel Town and collect your scooter. Call into the Coromandel Information Centre on Kapanga Road for local tips, then stroll the main street past the historic James & Turner hardware store, which has been trading since 1889. Ride the Driving Creek Railway up to the Eyeful Tower lookout for views over the town and harbour, then have lunch on Wharf Road or at the Star & Garter. Finish with the Kauri Block Walk, which starts next to 356 Wharf Road, before returning the scooter and catching the shuttle back to the ferry.
2. Mussels and Markets (by Scooter)
Perfect for foodies. After collecting your scooter, browse the galleries and craft shops around the main street, then head out on the harbour with Mussel Safaris to see how Coromandel’s mussels are farmed. Enjoy mussels for lunch in town, then finish the day with a drink at the Star & Garter before the shuttle takes you back to the wharf.
3. Beach and Bush (by Car)
If you want to see a little more of the peninsula, hire a car. Collect it in town, then drive north to Papa Aroha Scenic Reserve for a coastal bush walk that ends at a swimming beach. Head back for lunch in town, then spend the afternoon at the Driving Creek Railway or the Coromandel Gold Stamper Battery before returning the car and catching the shuttle to the ferry.
What About Hahei and Hot Water Beach?
They are on the east coast and make for a very long day from Coromandel Town. We recommend saving them for a longer stay. Our week in Coromandel itinerary covers them in detail.
The Bottom Line
A Coromandel day trip is easy: ferry, free shuttle, then wheels from $80 a day for a scooter or $99 a day for a car. Choose a scooter for town and a car for further afield.
Ready to go? Book your scooter or car with Mad Campers, and add the free shuttle when you book your ferry.
