Coromandel: Visiting Coromandel Town

We had visited Coromandel town many times by road but having now converted ourselves into boaties we thought that it would be great to do it from the water.

From our land lubbing days we knew the harbour emptied out at low tide but it must be possible to get up to the town at high tide.

We could find little reference to getting into the town via water but the tide was scheduled to be high late morning so we motored around into Coromandel Harbour to see if we could figure it out.

We were going to anchor off Wyuna at walk in along the road. However, when we got there we decided that looked like a bit of a trek on a hot day. Furthermore, being Easter Saturday, the Harbour looked more like a shopping mall car park.

It did not take too long to see the line of dinghies heading in towards shore so we dropped ours off and followed.

Make sure you have your outboard (well topped up with fuel), aim for the town and you will soon pick up some channel bouys.

These take you into the mangroves, up past an assortment of boats moored on the port side of the creek and eventually to the road bridge. You will find some "hitching rails" on both sides of the creek to tie the dinghy up to. The town, some splendid shopping and eateries are but a few paces away.

Dinghy parking was at an absolute premium the day we visited.

I have no idea how long after high water this creek is navigable in a dinghy. If anyone knows can you please add a comment.

A very enjoyable expedition and one that keeps the first mate happy.

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Coromandel: Deep Cove Whangaui Island

This is a good overnight anchorage that is sheltered from most winds. Probably a little exposed to the Northerly quarter but when you look out across the Harbour you are virtually surrounded by land in reasonably proximity.

You can land your dinghy at the head of the cove but the beach is not particularly attractive.

No walks available onshore.

However, we experienced littl e boat wash and it was one of the smoothest nights we have enjoyed anyway. The outlook across the Harbour to the islands is very pretty.

Anchorage: Deep Cove, Whanganui Island
Location: 36.46.536S 175.25.547E
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Marine Forecast: Coromandel

Coromandel - West Bay Te Kouma Harbour

We first visited Te Kouma Harbour during Easter 2007.

The weather was kind with light winds all weekend leaving us with plenty of options for anchoring provided you got to be appropriate bay early enough.

We had heard and read a lot about Te Kouma Harbour and this particular bay did not seem to be favoured due to it's exposure to the south west.

We arrived reasonably early but the bay was already pretty full. I could see that it would not be a great spot in a south wester and with the boat traffic and being at the entrance to the harbour was going to be subject to wash from those who do not give a toss about others.

However, the spot was delightful, the forecast was for sea breezes and we were able to get far enough into the bay to feel pretty snug. The added benefit was a loverly beach at the head of the bay and the ability to go for a walk and take in some of the spectacula views from the hills.

Overall, highly recommended in the right weather conditions.

Anchorage: West Bay Te Kouma Harbour
Position: 36.49.378S 175.28.527E
Last Visited: April 07

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Marine Forcast - Coromandel