Driving Creek

Driving Creek is a truly unique tourism operation in The Coromandel that began as a grass-roots pottery in 1973, and offers immersive experiences that take you on a journey where you learn about the incredible story of Driving Creek's creation, the land's pioneering history and conservation initiatives.

We have things to do for everyone with three unforgettable tourism experiences, whether it’s a railway tour on New Zealand’s only mountain railway crossing ten bridges and through three tunnels with spectacular views across The Coromandel, an eight zipline canopy tour that traverses through native forest both under ferns and high in the treetops, or a creative wheel throwing pottery class in a place thriving with inspiration and old world values.

Nestled in the heart of The Coromandel, Driving Creek is more than just a tourism operation. It’s a testament to the late Barry Brickell's pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication to art and conservation. Barry paved the way by creating a unique artisan pottery and planting over 27,000 native trees, transforming the land into a lush native forest.

Following Barry’s wishes after his passing in 2016, Driving Creek is now a fully charitable organisation that delivers on Barry’s vision to protect and enhance the environment, and enrich the artistic community. Join us in exploring New Zealand's natural qualities while supporting our conservation and pottery efforts.