Cathedral Cove, Coromandel

Image: Piotr Zurek | Creative Commons

Cathedral Cove Walk

Located in Hahei area in the Coromandel region

This place is part of

Introduction

Stunning views of the Coromandel coast guide you to the dramatic cliffs and iconic rock archway of Cathedral Cove. This is one of best short walks.

Highlights

  • Distinctive coastal landform features with dramatic cliffs and archway.
  • Fitness required: Moderate
  • Gradient: Undulating with steps

Track overview

2.5 km

Walking and tramping

1 hr 30 min return Easy: Walking track

Seasonal restrictions

The car park is closed annually from 1 October – 30 April. A park and ride shuttle bus service operates from the visitor car park at the entrance to Hahei village. 

Dog access

No dogs

Brochures

About this track

Description

This popular track hugs the coast, providing dramatic views of spectacular coastal scenery along its length, finishing at the beach beneath an impressive rock archway.

A loop track at the north-western end offers an extension to the main walk with amazing views.

Getting there

The nearest towns are Hahei (2 km), Whitianga (35 km) and Coromandel (54 km). 

Tour operators/shuttles to/from Auckland are available. A privately operated water taxi is available from Hahei when sea conditions allow.

The track begins at a drop-off area at the end of Grange Road or from the northern end of Hahei Beach (an extra 20 minutes each way).

Due to increased increased traffic in Hahei village over summer, the car park at the start of the track is closed from 1 October to 30 April. Free parking is available at the entrance to the village instead. From there walk via the beach to the start of the walk, or use the park and ride shuttle bus (although you will miss Hahei Beach and the beautiful cliff walk). 

History and culture

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 a Hei or Mercury Bay.

Know before you go

What to expect
  • Elevation change: 80 m
Hazards
  • Rapidly changing weather conditions.
  • Potential for rockfall in and around the arch due to ongoing natural weathering and erosion – take care.
  • Danger of falling rocks at the north-western end of the beach at Stingray Bay – this area is closed.
Be prepared

Ensure you take:

  • food and water
  • good sturdy footwear.

Contacts

Kauaeranga Visitor Centre
Phone:   +64 7 867 9080
Fax:   +64 4 471 1117
Email:   kauaerangavc@doc.govt.nz
Address:   995C Kauaeranga Valley Road
Thames 3577
Postal Address:   PO Box 343
Thames 3540
Hauraki Office
Phone:   +64 7 867 9180
Fax:   +64 4 471 1117
Email:   thames@doc.govt.nz
Address:   3/366 Ngati Maru Highway (SH25)
Thames 3500
Postal Address:   PO Box 343
Thames 3540
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