Coromandel Township
Coromandel Township, nestled on the western side of the Coromandel Peninsula, is a charming town rich in history. Named after HMS Coromandel in 1820, its true boom came with the gold rush of the 1850s. After alluvial gold was discovered at Tokatea Hill in 1869, the population soared. Today, you can still see picturesque old buildings from those pioneering times, and explore the gold mining museum. The main street also offers delightful craft shops and cafes. Just three kilometres north, embark on a unique journey aboard the Driving Creek Railway, winding through lush regenerating kauri forest. Coromandel Township is a captivating blend of history, artistry, and natural beauty.
Driving Creek Railway & Potteries - EyeFull Tower Tour
Driving Creek Railway and Potteries has become a Coromandel icon. The dream of Barry Brickell was to establish a pottery workshop on his land. Using a railway he would have access to the clay on the land and the pine kiln fuel. Over the next 15 years the railway developed until in 1990 it was finally licensed to carry fare paying passengers and ever since thousands of visitors have made the trip to Coromandel to experience this unique attraction. The 1 hour return train trip on the innovatively designed trains takes you through replanted native kauri forest and includes 2 spirals, 3 short tunnels, 5 reversing points and several large viaducts as it climbs up to the mountain-top terminus. The pottery is still producing and you can watch the artists at work as well as purchase items.
It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity. For more information please see here.
Coromandel Zipline Tour
Glide through the forest on this unique zipline canopy tour and experience Coromandel's breath-taking native forest from all levels, as you fly above the trees and walk beneath the ferns. Guides will lead you on an unforgettable journey, to learn about Driving Creek’s transformation from kauri logging, gold mining and pastural farming, into a lush hand planted native forest, a haven for regenerating kauri trees and kiwi.
It is important you read and understand the risks associated with this activity ahead of travel. For more information please see here.
Pottery Class with Driving Creek Railway & Potteries
Driving Creek Railway and Potteries has become a Coromandel icon. The dream of Barry Brickell was to establish a pottery workshop on his land. Using a railway he would have access to the clay on the land and the pine kiln fuel. Over the next 15 years the railway developed until in 1990 it was finally licensed to carry fare-paying passengers and ever since thousands of visitors have made the trip to Coromandel to experience this unique attraction.
Hop on the wheel for a creative 1.5-hour pottery class and learn wheel throwing from a professional potter, in a place thriving with inspiration, innovation, and rampant creativity! They supply all the clay, the wheel, and aprons to keep your clothes clean! You also get the opportunity to have your works glazed, fired and delivered with a variety of colours at an additional cost.
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