Coromandel was visited in 1820 by HMS Coromandel which called into the harbour for Kauri spars. The ship brought the town, and the Peninsula, its name from the Madras coast of India. In 1852 the discovery of gold at Driving Creek brought a boom to Coromandel town. A lot of history dating from that time is still evident in the town today with the old buildings, artefacts and atmosphere. The regenerating native forest on the hills is also a reminder of the environmental damage brought by this pioneering period.

Present day Coromandel Town is known mainly for the relaxed lifestyle it offers. The area has attracted talented artists and craftspeople, who find the area conducive to producing their wares. Complimenting this industry is a growing number of mussel and oyster farms which lie offshore in the clear, clean waters of the Hauraki Gulf. These supply seafood to the world.

Entertainment comes easily in Coromandel Town with the Pohutukawa festival every December. This celebrates the stunning Pohutukawa trees that line the Thames coastline, through Coromandel Town and up to the top of the Peninsula and the festival is timed to take advantage of their brilliant red flowers that herald the arrival of summer. Every year on January 2nd, Coromandel Town hosts the Keltic Fair which attracts over 10,000 people into the town. This is a fun family day with crafts, music and entertainment. Following on in the festive theme is the "Coromandel Mussel Festival" held in November. A delectable seafood smorgasbord, craft stalls and live music.

So come and play in Coromandel ...