The colours of the Coromandel Peninsula will remain with you long after your walking holiday here. White sand beaches and turquoise waters, shaded by craggy Pohutukawa trees, make even an amateur artist feel inspired. Just an hour east of Auckland, this unspoiled, uncrowded volcanic peninsula offers a peaceful and scenic respite from a busy world. Walking is the best way to get the feel of the rugged mountains with emerald streams and timeless waterfalls, wind-sculpted rock forms, and even beaches warmed by geothermal spring water. Sample itinerary: Friday On arrival at Coromandel, by coach from Auckland or Rotorua, you will be met and transferred to your B&B accommodation in this charming town. The rest of the day is free to relax, explore antique shops, cafes and wander the beaches. There are some excellent restaurants and tapas bars in Coromandel.

Saturday
9am pick up and short drive towards Colville and a walk in beautiful forest with an amazing variety of native trees and ferns. Follow rivers past waterfalls and enjoy lush green forest at its best. Return to your B&B at Coromandel and enjoy some refreshments on the balcony before going out to eat.

Sunday
9am start and a day of coastal exploration along some of the most beautiful coast in New Zealand. Pohutukawa trees (NZ Christmas trees) hang precariously over the cliffs and contrast with blue seas beyond. Bring your swim togs.

Monday
Transfer day for those on Taster holidays and a free day for the Explorer Holiday. Activities include sailing, diving, cycling, craft trails, and historic museums.

Tuesday
A short drive to the Coromandel Heritage Trail, takes us to the start of this track on private farmland. Your guide will show you an area of the Coromandel Peninsula undiscovered by tourists and even by most locals. The track climbs to a ridge and you can take in views over headland and islands. Bring your camera.

Wednesday
This is a beautiful bush walk with rivers and streams and all the plant life that goes with that - ferns, mosses and lichens and lush undergrowth. Your guide can bring your surroundings to life and show you what hides beneath the fallen tree trunks and on the riverbanks.

Thursday
Transfers are provided to coincide with your onward / return travel.

Taster Coromandel Holidays run from Friday nights for 3 nights and 2 days guided walking and Explorer Coromandel Holidays run in the holiday periods for 6 nights and 4 days guided walking with 1 free day.