Discovering Cathedral Cove
Located on the east coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, Mautohe Cathedral Cove is a must-visit destination for many exploring Aotearoa, New Zealand. This stunning location is renowned for its natural arch, clear waters, and surrounding white cliffs adorned with large pōhutukawa trees. The beach's crystal-clear waters make it an ideal spot for a safe swim, adding to its appeal for travellers. There is even a gentle waterfall at the south end of the beach for a post-swim shower!
Walking to Cathedral Cove
The Cathedral Cove Walkway is a 40-minute walk that starts at the top of the steep Grange Road in Hahei. Along the way, there is a short side trip to Gemstone Bay. There is also access from paid parking on Lees Road. The walk is also 40 minutes, but less scenic.
Exploring the Cove
Upon arrival, you'll first encounter Mares Leg Cove, the official name as marked on Topo Map NZ. Iconic Cathedral Cove is actually on the other side of the impressive natural arch. Check out the Hahei Community website for an explanation of Mares Leg.
The natural arch is the premier feature, but the white cliffs and the sea-carved rock formations in the surf are also striking. Cathedral Cove is formed from Pākiri and Otama limestones laid down around 25–30 million years ago, when much of the Coromandel was submerged beneath a shallow sea. The soft, creamy-white sedimentary rocks erode easily, sculpted by wave action into sea caves, arches, and stacks.
The area is part of the rohe of Ngāti Hei iwi, who occupied the surrounding coastline and offshore islands. The cove itself was a landing site and seasonal fishing ground. Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve, which runs along this coast, means the Great Bay of Hei, which Hei claimed on his arrival in Aotearoa on the Te Arawa waka around 1350.
Planning Your Visit
While Cathedral Cove is a popular destination, its beaches are relatively small, and the area can become crowded, especially during New Zealand public holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning. Parking is available off Lees Road and in Hahei, but planning your visit outside peak times is strongly advised.
Getting to Cathedral Cove
The 40-minute Cathedral Cove Walkway is accessed from Hahei by car or bus drop-off at the top of Grange Road, by walking up Grange Road, or by walking a track from Hahei Beach. The walk to the top of Grange Road adds 20 minutes. There is also access from paid parking on Lees Road. The walk connects with the walkway and also takes about 40 minutes.
Hahei is a 2.5-hour, 176 km drive from Auckland and 33 minutes, 35 km, from Whitianga.
Nearby places to explore include Herejeretaura Point at the southeast end of Hahei Beach, Hot Water Beach, Cooks Beach, Lonely Bay and Shakespeare Cliff.
