Coromandel: Zipline Forest Tour & Mountain Railway Ride

Summary

Ziplining through Coromandel’s forest with local guides and a mountain train ride

You’ll ride a mountain railway through Coromandel’s lush forest before gliding along eight ziplines with local guides who know every tree by name. Feel your nerves melt away as you soar above ferns and streams, learning about native wildlife and history along the way. It’s more than just adrenaline—you’ll leave with muddy shoes and a new respect for this place.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway up the mountain before I realized how much I’d underestimated this place. The little train rattled along, windows open, wind carrying that earthy, green smell you only get in New Zealand. Our guide, Jamie, pointed out a kauri tree that looked like it could swallow me whole. He joked about how he used to climb them as a kid—can’t tell if he was serious or not. The ride took maybe 18 minutes but felt both faster and slower at the same time.

Getting strapped into the harness felt awkward at first (I never know what to do with my arms), but our two guides were patient and cracked jokes about “kiwi-style” safety—apparently it means triple-checking everything and still laughing about it. The first zipline was honestly scarier than I thought; my hands were sweating inside the gloves. But then you’re flying over ferns and streams, hearing tui birds somewhere below, and suddenly you forget to be nervous. The air tasted clean, like rain even though it wasn’t raining.

I tried to pronounce the Māori names for some of the trees—Li laughed when I butchered one (I’m still not sure how to say “pūriri”). There’s something kind of wild about being up there between sky and forest floor, seeing all these layers of green you’d miss from a path. Eight ziplines total—I lost count after five because I was too busy trying to spot a kiwi (no luck). By the end, my hair smelled like wet leaves and metal from the harness.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Zipline canopy tour in Coromandel

• Meet and outfit with safety gear
• Ride 18-minute mountain train
• Zipline across eight lines
• Walk beneath native ferns
• Learn about forest restoration

Top questions

How long is the Coromandel zipline tour?

The zipline experience includes an 18-minute train ride plus time on eight ziplines spanning 705 meters in total.

Is transport included in the Coromandel zipline tour?

The tour includes transport by rail car up New Zealand’s only mountain railway to reach the start of the ziplining course.

Are guides provided during the Coromandel zipline tour?

Yes, two expert local guides lead your group throughout the entire experience.

What should I wear for ziplining in Coromandel?

Wet weather clothing is included if needed; comfortable clothes are recommended as all safety equipment is provided on site.

Is this Coromandel zipline tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The activity is suitable for all physical fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers.

Can I get to Coromandel Zipline Tours by public transport?

Yes, public transportation options are available nearby.

How many ziplines are included in this tour?

The experience features eight separate ziplines stretching across gullies and streams in native forest.

What’s included

Your day includes an 18-minute mountain railway ride up through Driving Creek, all safety equipment fitted by two friendly guides, wet weather gear if needed, entry fees for Coromandel Zipline Tours, and plenty of stories about New Zealand’s native forests before heading back down again.