iTravel NZ: Experience Coromandel

Physical activities can positively influence academic performance. In fact, even the brightest students sometimes struggle with pressure and school requirements. However, if they know how to counteract this circumstance as it occurs, they would likely succeed. In my case, I always have music and traveling in mind. Students have been busy these past few weeks for overwhelming requirements. So before my mind gets crazy, my flatmate invited me for a short travel to chill out. We headed to Coromandel for a day.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO

1. Cathedral Cove
   This beautiful cove is a fun place to visit in Coromandel Peninsula because of its stunning and picturesque view. If weather permits, pack your swim wear, jandals, and picnic lunch then head to this place. There is a free parking in Hahei Village and cars are only allowed at this point. From the village, you need to either walk (free) or ride a shuttle bus (5.00 NZD/pax) to the Cathedral Cove lookout area. From there, you still need to walk for about 45 minutes to reach the Cathedral Cove. It may appear far but this place is absolutely breathtaking. It would be challenging to go here when you are with babies or kids in strollers because you have to walk down and up a steep staircase. As such, the complete access to the beach is not as friendly as it should be. For this manner, you may just want to stay at the lookout point or head to the next destination–the Hot Water Beach.
   
   Address: 65 Grange Rd. S, Hahei 3591, New Zealand
2. The Hot Water Beach
   If you are fond of playing on the water or if you are with your kids/family, this is for you. You can swim during low tide, dig your own spa reservoir, surf, or just walk around. You need a shovel to dig your own space. The water can be really hot so you need to be careful. Nonetheless, it is amazingly soothing. I loved it!Unlike the Cathedral Cove, this place is easy to access from the parking area. It is also stroller friendly. It is a 5-minute walk from the car park. There are no shower rooms on site but it is a safe where you can leave your things in the open without any worries of losing them. Although there is a lifeguard support in the area, it is still best to keep an eye of your children since the waves can come crashing speedily. It is a good way to mingle with the locals and tourists. No entrance fee 🙂

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3. Meet the locals, meet Albie!
   We were on our way back to the Auckland when we saw a herd of cows along the road so we parked for a while. Few minutes later, a man riding on a 4×4-wheel tractor came and waved at us. Dan, the farmer-owner, was very kind and generous enough to show us around. He owns this beautiful Albino, the rarest of all the cows in the farm. Her name is Albie, 2.5 years old.
   
   

   

   My key takeaway from this trip is:
   Great weather, great buddies, great travel. #Coromandel!