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It is 90 minutes from central Auckland or Auckland International Airport, 50 minutes from Hamilton, 60 minutes from Tauranga, and 100 minutes from Rotorua. Waihi Beach, which is famed for both its surf and swimming, is only a 25 minute drive away. The Gorge marks the southern end of the Coromandel Ranges and is part of the Coromandel Peninsula.
The Karangahake Gorge itself is spectacular and has a complex system of walkways for all levels of fitness. The beginning of all the walkways is only a five minute stroll from the Estate. It is possible to explore the Karangahake Gorge, the even more spectacular Waitawheta Gorge or climb Karangahake Mountain from there. The old mines from a century ago are open to be entered and explored. Fishing in the Ohinemuri River and the adjacent Waitawheta River is also popular. Access to both is only a short walk away. Nearby is Mike O'Donnell, one of the Coromandel Peninsula's well known potters. Te Aroha Hot Pools are a 25 minute drive away and the Wilderness Gem Factory (the largest in the Southern Hemisphere) is only 20 minutes away. So, as well as the enjoyment of listening to the sound of the tuis and the pleasures of good wine and food, there are many other attractions in this area.
Links: www.thecoromandel.com
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Karangahake
Gorge O-Hinemuri River: There was a village here in the gorge, that was invaded by an opposing tribe. The people fled but the daughter of the chief had been out collecting herbs and returned to the village to find the invaders. She fled, crying 'Who will help me?' The taniwha of the river opened the rock which concealed his cave and gave her shelter. She stayed there for three days in which time they fell in love. The invaders in the meantime had left the village and the people had returned. They looked for the girl and called her name. She was torn between her new love and her love of her people. She finally decided to return to her people and the taniwha opened the cave. He was inconsolable and left the area forever carving the present course of the Ohinemuri and then the Waihou river to the sea.
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Ohinemuri Estate :: Moresby Street, Karangahake, RD4 Paeroa, New Zealand :: Ph: 0064 7 862 8874 :: Fx: 0064 7 862 8847