Coromandel Zipline: Driving Creek Canopy Tour over Native Forest
Ride a historic mountain railway and fly eight ziplines across 705 meters of regenerating native forest at Driving Creek. This 2.5-hour eco-focused canopy tour blends adrenaline with conservation and local pottery history.
The Experience
Before You Go
Book a morning slot
Mornings offer better light for photography and more active native birds.
Wear closed-toe shoes
Platforms and short walks involve ladders and uneven ground—train shoes with grip.
Secure small cameras
Use a wrist or chest strap—phones and cameras are easily dropped while zipping.
Declare weight and health conditions
Guides require weight at booking to ensure harness safety; mention any mobility or medical concerns in advance.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Driving Creek Potteries and small gallery at the railhead
- •Short viewpoint on the ridge with panoramic views to the Hauraki Gulf
Wildlife
- •Tūī (songbird)
- •Kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon)
Conservation Note
The operator donates profits to native forest restoration and supports local predator-control and planting programs—visitors are asked to stay on designated paths and avoid disturbing flora.
Driving Creek was reshaped from kauri-logging and mining land; potter and conservationist Barry Brickell built the railway and pottery to restore and reinterpret the landscape.
Photographer's Notes
- • Railway summit platform before the first zipline
- • Mid-course platforms suspended over gullies
- • Final lookout with Kauri emergents in the distance
What to Bring
Closed-toe trail shoesEssential
Grip and ankle support for platform approaches and short forest walks.
Light rain shellEssential
Weather can change quickly—waterproof layers keep you dry and warm.
Small action camera or phone with strap
Capture mid-zip action—secure it with a strap to avoid loss.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Stay hydrated on the 2.5-hour tour; refill before arrival.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The experience runs about 150 minutes total, including an 18-minute rail-car ascent, safety briefings and eight zipline runs.
Are there age or weight limits?
Children are welcome but operators collect age and weight at booking for harness fit; typical limits align with industry standards—check the operator for exact minimums and maximums before booking.
Is the tour safe for beginners?
Yes—guides lead every station, provide full safety equipment and the course is designed for people with no prior zipline experience.
What should I wear?
Closed-toe shoes, comfortable activewear and a light waterproof layer; avoid loose items that could snag on gear.
What happens in bad weather?
Operations may be canceled for heavy rain or high winds; wet-weather clothing is provided and full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours before departure.
How do I get there?
Meet at the Driving Creek start point—public transport options are available nearby, but many visitors drive from Coromandel Town or Thames.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Coromandel, Waikato
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; participants should be comfortable climbing short ladders and walking uneven trails.
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