Thanks to the construction of the national cycleway, this picturesque south Coromandel township has at last become a destination in its own right.
Te Aroha possesses character and an old-world charm in spades, something few small towns have managed to retain in this impersonal digital age.
Nestled at the foot of the mountain, in the epicentre of the Edwardian Domain, another icon runs like clockwork – the world’s only hot soda-water geyser plays every forty-five minutes rain, hail, or shine.
While there is a holiday park located a short drive out of town and several motorhome-friendly spots available in Te Aroha itself (not to mention a dump station by the skateboard park), if you’re here for the night then the domain must be the best spot to bunker down, with its pristine park-like surrounds, well-manicured gardens, bowling greens and stunning Edwardian architecture.
Of course, the most renowned feature of the domain would have to be the pools and mineral spa – one of life’s little luxuries.
Located five minutes out of town along Old Te Aroha Road is Wairongomai Valley. DOC has devoted the last five or so years creating a variety of tracks, complete with mining relics and informative boards to enhance your experience.
Motorhome-friendly Te Aroha may appear quaint to the untrained eye but scratch below the surface and you’ll find it will draw you back again and again. What are you waiting for?
Local knowledge
The Te Aroha and District Museum Visitors can wander through the area’s history. Walks and tramps Numerous walks varying in length and difficulty leave from the Domain, so make sure you pick up a few brochures from i-SITE. Bike hire Simply knock on the door of the Aroha Mountain Lodge, just down from the spa pools. Te Aroha Leisure Pools Open from 7am-5.45pm weekdays, and 10am-6.45pm on weekends, while the Mineral Spas close at 9pm weekdays and 10pm weekends. Free concerts and events are often held in the domain. 
