The Coromandel Peninsula is known for its pristine beaches and beautiful coastline, with spots like Cathedral Cove. But there’s also one of the best hikes on the North Island of New Zealand here: the Pinnacles. This was one of my favorite hikes in the country – and while I did it as a day hike, you can make this an overnight hike, too! Here’s everything you need to know about hiking the Pinnacles in the Coromandel.
Pinnacles Hike Overview
Distance: 16.5km (10.2 miles)
Time: 5 to 7 hours
Elevation gain: 842 meters (2762ft)
What to Pack for Hiking the Pinnacles
This is a challenging day hike, so you should come prepared. Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, and bring hiking poles! Your knees will thank me when you have to come down the stairs at the end. Sunscreen and a hat are essential, as there’s no shade once you leave Pinnacles Hut. Bring waterproof layers, as the weather can change quickly. And, of course, be sure to bring all the water and snacks you need for the hike.
Getting to the Pinnacles Trailhead
The Pinnacles hike starts from the end of Kauaeranga Valley Road, where there’s a large car park and drop toilets. There’s also a DOC campsite here, Trestle View Campsite. This is the GoogleMaps pin for Kauaeranga Valley Road parking. Kauaeranga Valley Road is sealed up until Shag Stream (where the DOC center is located, along with another campsite), and is unsealed for the final 8km to the road end. The road is narrow and winding, but suitable for all vehicles in good weather conditions. This is a popular hike, so expect to see a fair few cars here!
Hiking up to Pinnacles Hut
Pinnacles Hut is the largest DOC hut in New Zealand – it can sleep 80 people! The trail is steep and rocky in places (which is why I recommend hiking poles!), going through the forest before the trail opens up and you can see the Pinnacles themselves. Besides the really steep sections, it’s a continual but gradual incline. It took me 1 hour and 50 minutes from starting the hike to reach Pinnacles Hut.
Final Ascent to the Summit of the Pinnacles
The section from Pinnacles Hut to the Pinnacles is the most difficult part of this hike. There’s a steep section of seemingly endless stairs, taking you to the base of the Pinnacles. From here, there’s a few challenges like ladders and light scrambles over giant boulders. There are metal steps in the rocks, creating a makeshift ladder, to make things easier.
You’ll reach the platform at the top, which has some of the most incredible views! On a clear day, you can see for miles and miles – all the way across the dense forest to the coast. Definitely give yourself plenty of time here to enjoy the view after all that hard work. It took me 30 minutes from the junction with Pinnacles Hut to reach the summit.
Descending Down the Pinnacles
The Pinnacles hike is an out-and-back trail, so you go back the same way you came. But there is the option to return via the Billygoat track; turn off at the Hydro Camp. Otherwise, head back down to Pinnacles Hut and retrace your steps back to the trailhead. Take your time descending the scrambles and ladders – I always think these are more difficult going down, than going up! All in all, the hike took me just under 5 hours, including about 20 minutes eating my lunch at the top.
Planning Your Trip to the Coromandel
The Coromandel Peninsula is located on the North Island, jutting out into the Bay of Plenty. The southern areas of the peninsula (which are closest) are about a 1.5- to 2-hour drive from Auckland. The closest airport is Auckland airport – I use Skyscanner to find the best flight deals. There’s no public transport to get to the end of Kauaeranga Valley Road, so you’ll need your own car. Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.
You can do this hike as a day trip from Auckland, although it’ll take at least 2 hours of driving (pending Auckland traffic). Part of the popularity of Pinnacles Hut is that it’s so accessible from Auckland! Check out tours, including daytrips, around the Coromandel below.
Where to Stay in the Coromandel
Of course, the most sought-after place to stay is the DOC Pinnacles Hut, which is perfect for turning this day hike into an overnighter. The hut is massive, with cold showers, solar lighting, and gas cookers. While there are 80 spaces, it is very popular, and you need to book in advance – preferably far in advance! Prices vary between $25-35 NZD per night; weekend nights are more expensive.
There are a number of DOC campsites in Kauaeranga Valley, with Trestle View campsite at the trailhead being the most convenient. Shag Stream is one of the best, close to the DOC center, and the drive there is all on sealed roads. Other DOC campsites here are: Booms Flat, Catleys, Hotoritori, Totara Flat, Wainora, and Whangaiterenga. Elsewhere in the Coromandel, I’d recommend Broken Hills DOC campsite for a peaceful stay. The last few kilometers to the campground are on an unsealed road, and there’s no phone signal here, but it’s great for a quiet getaway. And it’s one of the only budget options in the area! I stayed here after visiting Hahei, before driving around to Kauaeranga Valley the next morning.
Thames is nearest town to the Pinnacles hike, where there’s a number of accommodation options:
- Grafton Cottage and Chalets – comfortable chalets that sleep between 2 and 5 guests, with an outdoor pool and hot tub
- Lady Bowen Bed and Breakfast – a lovely B&B in a historic property, with super-friendly owners
- Dickson Holiday Park – a caravan park just outside of town, just a short walk from the waterfront
- Freedom camping is allowed (for self-contained vehicles) at Rhodes Park Reserve
Hiking to the Pinnacles is one walk you don’t want to miss on the North Island. I missed this the first time I came to the Coromandel, as Kauaeranga Valley Road was closed! I’m so glad I came back a second time to do this hike. It’s challenging, especially with the ladder scrambles, but so worth it for that view. I hope this post helps planning your hike to the Pinnacles!
Have you hiked the Pinnacles or been to the Coromandel? What was your experience like?
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