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.- Distinctive coastal landform features with dramatic cliffs and archway.
- Fitness required: Moderate
- Gradient: Undulating with steps
2.5 km
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
Image gallery
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Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Image: Tahu Taylor-Koolen ©
![Cathedral Cove archway with people.]( "Cathedral Cove archway with people.")
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Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Image: Shellie Evans ©
![Cathedral Cove beach - kayaks and people.]( "Cathedral Cove beach - kayaks and people.")
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Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Image: Alex Schwab | Creative Commons
![Ocean and people at Cathedral Cove.]( "Ocean and people at Cathedral Cove.")
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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.")
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.
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).
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.
Pack in, pack out
There are no rubbish bins at Cathedral Cove – including none in the car park. Keep this stunning place clean and take all your rubbish away with you.
Walk may close at short notice
Cathedral Cove Walk may close at short notice to protect visitors from rock fall, dangerous sea swells or other hazards. These are most often caused by heavy rain or large seas.
Check the DOC website for closure alerts before you travel.
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.
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 |
| Full office details | |