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
You can provide your feedback on these proposals to us via cathedralcove@doc.govt.nz.
The closing date for public feedback is 5:00 pm Friday, 19 June 2026.
What happens next
After the feedback period closes:
- DOC will analyse 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.