Here are our top suggestions for a truly unique New Year in The Coromandel
1. Overnight up The Pinnacles
See the new year's sunrise atop the summit of the Coromandel Ranges. Make base overnight at the hut and scamper up the last few metres of one of New Zealand’s most popular overnight walks. Catch the very first rays rising over the Pacific, glistening in the distance, and dream about your year ahead.
2. Beach camp in northern Coromandel
Join the DOC rangers and experience New Year's Eve on the beachfront, far away from the hordes. Contemplate the year ahead with the rugged beauty and remote isolation of Port Jackson and Fletcher Bay Campsites as a canvas.
3. Simply chill at Luke's
Sit back, relax and let the New Year vibes wash over you at Luke’s Kitchen, Kūaotunu. The rustic seaside restaurant combines fresh seasonal cuisine, local brews, organic coffee and a vibrant atmosphere with regular live gigs. A locals' favourite.
4. Head out to sea.
See in the New Year in true Coro’ style, catching the first Kingy of the season with one of the many fishing charters operating in our waters. Experience world-class sport fishing and diving at the magical Aldermen Islands, an adventure you will never forget.
5. Fireworks at midnight.
The annual New Year's Eve fireworks display over Tairua and Pāuanui harbour is legendary. Light up your night and celebrate the incoming year with the whole family. You can lie back atop the surrounding hills or stroll down to one of the harbourside reserves and be dazzled by the spectacular display on the stroke of midnight. The lengthy explosion of light is funded by community and local donations, so you can drop your contribution off at one of our information centres.
6. Catch your mates at the Coroglen
Gather your friends and family for a classic Tav gig featuring a lineup of Kiwi favourites over the summer. There are shuttles, so no worries about getting there, or you can camp in the paddock across the road. It's a rite of passage for seeing out the old year and in with the new.
7. Stargazing - Hot Water Beach
Dig your own spa pool by starlight and bathe in the glow. If you are staying at the Top 10 Holiday Park, head down to the shore early in the New Year to catch the first low tide. You'll be sure to have company!
8. Sunrise on the sand -Waihī Beach
Begin as you mean to go on. Get up for the sun and a long walk along the long sweep of sand as you contemplate the possibilities of the year that lies ahead.
7. Picnic on the point - Coromandel Town
Watch the sun go down on the old year over the tranquil Hauraki Gulf from the Kauri Block high above Coromandel Town. Leaving Wharf Road, it's a short walk up the right-hand fork to the highest point, an old pa site which offers spectacular 360° views of the Coromandel Ranges, Islands and township. Or head to Long Bay for a more leisurely evening.