The Coromandel Peninsula on the North Island of New Zealand extends 85 km north from the western end of the Bay of Plenty. It’s across the Firth of Thames from Auckland and about a 2 1/2 hour drive. The Peninsula is known for its gorgeous beaches, rugged coastline, and steep & hilly interior. Our guide to running on the Coromandel Peninsula is focused on the coastal communities and popular visitor spots, working our way from south to north. This includes some of the most scenic and reliable beach running anywhere.
Pauanui is one of our favorite spots for running on the Peninsula, for its gorgeous beach, Tairua River Trail, and additional options in nearby Tairua. The best waterfront road running can be found in Tairua, Whitianga, Cooks Beach, and along a 15 km section of Port Jackson Rd. For some gorgeous coastal bluff running, the Cathedral Cove Trail is a highlight. At the northern end of the peninsula, the Coromandel Coastal Walkway is a famous hike/walk, and also runnable. We’ve also put together a separate post showcasing 12 of Coromandel’s most runnable beaches. Trail runners will find endless options in Coromandel’s interior. This MAP is a good starting point.
Runner Notes: Check tide times for beach running. Also, the Pacific Coast Highway runs along most of the west coast, but lacks a shoulder and is not safe for running.
