Colville – Coastal Walks and Village History

Colville is a quiet rural town where timber milling history, walks and nearby coastal destinations come together. To plan your trip, you can compare a stay in the town with activities of varying lengths in the surrounding area.

History and Walks

In the pioneer era, Colville was a busy timber-milling town. In the 1970s, the area became a draw for hippies because of its natural beauty and remoteness. Today, Colville serves a local community of farmers and artists. The Colville Foreshore Walk passes farmland and wetlands. Visitors can look for old pā sites in the hills and watch coastal birds foraging.

Another loop walk leads to the historic Colville Cemetery, about 25 km north of Colville, and an old Māori fish trap. On the way back, the route passes through Colville and by a wetland. The fish trap is visible at low tide up to mid-tide. So, if you plan this walk, take both the approximate distance and the tide level into account.

Coast and Protected Landscape

Nearby Cape Colville includes regenerating native forest, dense bush, farmland and rocky coastal sections. It is home to both a highly protected area and a protected seabed area. Check the rules in force before planning activities in these protected areas. There are several nearby boat launching spots, including Port Jackson and Fletcher Bay; check local conditions and restrictions in advance.

Compare Beaches and Walks

In the area north of Colville, several walking tracks range from 20-minute strolls to half-day trips. Check the conditions on the specific track before setting out.

Nearby Port Jackson is a long, expansive beach popular for camping and fishing. Waikawau Bay offers a wide sandy beach suitable for swimming, diving and fishing. When choosing a beach destination, you can base your choice on the activity you have in mind: Port Jackson combines beach time with camping and fishing, while Waikawau Bay combines sandy beaches with water activities. Water conditions at Waikawau Bay vary by season and weather; at Port Jackson, check access and camping conditions.

Activities from Colville

For tours on the Coromandel Coastal Walkway, Hike and Bike offers a guided tour or shuttle service departing from Colville. The Hike & Bike shuttle to Port Jackson starts at 76 Wharf Road. With this Hike & Bike service, you can hire a bike or bring your own; you can also add a 4 km return walk on the Coromandel Coastal Walkway. Confirm operating details, bike availability and the programme offered in advance.

Farm Shop and Finding Accommodation

At the end of the village is Hereford 'n' a Pickle, a family-run farm shop. It offers freshly brewed coffee, cakes, biscuits, sandwiches, pickles, jams, chutneys and preserves. Meat and produce come directly from the family farm. It is a specific place to stop for a coffee or something savoury; check the range and opening details before visiting.

If you are planning the Colville Foreshore Walk or an activity departing from Colville, consider Colville as a base for your search. If your focus is on a beach, boat or walk, take the relevant destinations and conditions into account in your day’s plans.

Discover more destinations: Te Puru, Tairua, Whenuakite, Hikutaia, Coromandel, Whitianga, Hikuai, Kuaotunu.

For the broader travel overview: Thames-Coromandel District.