The area was formerly known largely for its hardrock gold mining and kauri forestry industries, but is now a popular tourist destination. A forest park occupies much of the centre of the peninsula, and the coasts are dotted with numerous beaches and scenic views.

The peninsula is steep and hilly, and is largely covered in temperate rainforest. The Coromandel Range forms a spine for the peninsula, rising to nearly 900 metres, and the large island of Great Barrier, which lies beyond the northern tip, can be thought of as an extension of the range. Great Barrier is separated from Cape Colville on the peninsula's northern coast by the Colville Channel.

When someday comes you'll need to get in.

When someday comes you'll need to be able to get around.