The extreme weather events so far in 2026 have significantly damaged work DOC had underway to repair the track at Waimata/Gemstone Bay and also caused a landslide on the planned reroute for the Hahei Short Walk.
As a result, we paused work on these projects to reassess their viability. They’ve remained off-limits to the public and we continue to urge the local community to protect the intent of those closures.
With these sites, we have reached a tipping point.
We do not believe these tracks can be sustained, or merit continued investment, when the feedback from the community and business sector has been clear – Mautohe Cathedral Cove and the experience it offers is the priority.
Summary of proposal
We are proposing the removal the Waimata Gemstone Bay track permanently. This would involve decommissioning the damaged stairs and spur track and restore the site to nature - recognising ongoing land instability, repeated loss of infrastructure, no feasible alternative route, and the need to use limited funding effectively.
We are also proposing not continuing with the establishment of the Hahei Short Walk reroute. This track will also be removed.
You can read our options papers on these proposals here. We’ve already begun discussions with key stakeholders on these proposals.
Options papers
We understand the proposed removal of these tracks may disappoint the local community, but we must carefully prioritise investment of limited resources. Continuing to rebuild infrastructure in highly vulnerable locations, where we know damage will reoccur, is not sustainable.
Feedback
Public feedback closed at 5 pm Friday, 19 June 2026.
33 submissions were received from local residents, community organisations, tourism operators, business groups, educators, conservation volunteers, and other interested people.
DOC also received a petition containing 1,311 signatures as part of the feedback process.
Most submitters opposed removal of the Hahei Short Walk, and most also opposed removal of the Waimata Gemstone Bay Track.
Feedback emphasised the importance of these tracks to the wider Mautohe Cathedral Cove experience, local recreation, marine education, conservation activity, and visitor access. Many submitters also expressed a preference for exploring alternative solutions before permanent removal was implemented.
A smaller number of submissions supported some or all of the proposals, including one submission that supported removal of both tracks on the basis visitor safety should take priority over continued investment in infrastructure vulnerable to natural hazards.
What happens next
We now need to consider the submissions and discuss the feedback with key staff involved in decision-making and ongoing management of the site.
We expect to announce our decision on the future of these tracks at the end of July.
After the feedback period closes:
- DOC analyses and consider feedback.
- The local Operations Manager will make a decision on the proposal.
- The decision will be publicised and any relevant actions taken by our staff.
Decision
No details at this point. Details will be added when they are available.
Contact
If you have a question about the process you can contact: cathedralcove@doc.govt.nz.