Hiking
Coromandel Forest Park—Kauaeranga Valley. This area of the forest park has more than 20 walking trails that offer everything from a 15-minute stroll to an overnight trek. The hike to the interesting Pinnacles formations is a steep climb yet probably the most popular walk in the park; the trek from the trailhead to the Pinnacles hut takes three hours one-way. From the hut you can continue (about one hour one-way) to the Pinnacles and a viewpoint that spans both coasts, the Firth of Thames and Pacific Ocean. An overnight in Pinnacles hut costs NZ$15; you need to reserve it either through a DOC visitor center or online (booking.doc.govt.nz). You can hike back via the three-hour-long Webb Creek trail or come down the longer (four-hour) alternative route, the Billy Goat track.
Always read the signs at the start of the track to check their state. Summer holiday season is busy, so book well ahead. Generally, midweek is less crowded than weekends throughout summer. There are also delightful camping areas along the valley floor (from NZ$10; powered sites should be booked in advance). To reach Kauaeranga Valley, head south from Thames and on the outskirts of the town turn left on Banks Street, then right on Parawai Road, which becomes Kauaeranga Valley Road. Thirteen kilometers (8½ miles) from Thames you'll come to the DOC Visitor Centre, which opens from 8:30 to 4 (possibly later in summer, give them a call first).
The visitor center offers up-to-date information on track conditions and camping facilities, educational displays, plus information on many other Coromandel walks or hikes, to places such as Fantail Bay, Cathedral Cove, or Opera Point. 07/867--9080; www.doc.govt.nz.
Department of Conservation Visitors Center. The most accessible starting point is the delightful Kauaeranga Valley Road, where the Department of Conservation Visitors Center provides maps and information. Open hours are generally from 8:30 to 4 daily, with extended hours in peak summer holidays. Phone first to be sure. 995 Kauaeranga Valley Rd., Waikato, 3577. 07/867–9080; www.doc.govt.nz.
Sleeping God Canyon. This is one of New Zealand's most epic outdoor and cultural adventures, set in Coromandel Forest Park, a spectacularly steep, forested canyon in Kauearanga Valley. Not for the faint-hearted, here you'll rappel, zipline, jump, water slide, and swim down and through a series of waterfalls and pools, a total 300-meter (984-foot) descent. The big jumps are optional, the rappels are not. You're in safe hands, as the guides have practiced for years in the underground canyons of the Waitomo Caves and are fully accredited, DOC-approved operators. You'll also hike 45 minutes through the forest to reach your jump-off point, during which your guides will share their Māori history and culture about this special place they know as Atuatumoa. It's a full day trip, 8:30 to 6:30, and canyoning equipment, lunch, and barbecue finale are supplied. Transport is offered from Thames and Hamilton. A good level of fitness and an adventurous spirit are essential for this excursion. 1160 Kauaeranga Valley Rd., Thames, Waikato, 3577. 0800/422--696; www.canyonz.co.nz. NZ$360 per person.
