Cathedral Cove Walk
Located in Hahei area and Te Whanganui-o-Hei/Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve in the Coromandel region
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Introduction
Cathedral Cove Walk is closed while work to reinstate walking access is underway. We expect the track to be open in December 2024.2.5 km
Seasonal restrictions
The car park is closed annually from 1 October – 30 April.
Dog access
Image gallery
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Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Image: Peter Dutton | Creative Commons
![Cloudy weather, Cathedral Cove.]( "Cloudy weather, Cathedral Cove.")
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Stingray Bay, Coromandel Image: Piotr Zurek | Creative Commons
![Stingray Bay, Coromandel.]( "Stingray Bay, Coromandel.")
The Cathedral Cove area is now only accessible by boat.
The nearest towns are Hahei (2 km), Whitianga (35 km) and Coromandel (54 km).
A privately operated water taxi is available from Hahei when sea conditions allow.
Cathedral Cove Walk track closed
The Cathedral Cove Walk track is closed due to major storm damage and land slips in numerous areas. It is only accessible by boat.
High rock fall and landslide risk areas Image: DOC
If you do visit the area, we advise that you:
- stay 10 m away from the cliffs at all times
- avoid the beach during or after heavy rain. The risk of rockfalls and landslides is highest at these times, however, rockfalls and landslides can also occur in good weather
- not to stand or walk under the cove’s arch, where rockfall has and can occur
- stay off tracks in the area
- be aware of falling rocks at the north-western end of the beach at Stingray Bay – this area is closed.
If you're uncomfortable with the risk, view from a boat rather than landing on the beach, or do not visit the area.
The area is also known for rapidly changing weather conditions.
Landslide and rock falls are a danger in the area Image: DOC
Slips are a danger along the walking track Image: DOC
Stair and track damage Image: DOC
Stair and track damage Image: DOC
Significant to local iwi Ngāti Hei, the area around Cathedral Cove was first visited in the 13th century by Hei, who is remembered in the names Hahei and Te Whanganui-o-Hei or Mercury Bay.
Contacts
| Kauaeranga Visitor Centre | |
|---|---|
| Phone | +64 7 867 9080 |
| kauaerangavc@doc.govt.nz | |
| Address | 995C Kauaeranga Valley Road Thames 3577 |
| Hours | Visitor centre hours and services |