Discover why Mautohe Cathedral Cove is New Zealand’s most famous patch of sand.
It’s a stunning hour-and-a-half return walk along the coastline to Cathedral Cove. As you emerge through the picture-perfect archway framing the beach, you'll be greeted by stunning sea cliffs and pristine emerald waters. Other notable features include Te Hoho, a pinnacle of pumice breccia rock shaped like the prow of a ship, and the Te Whanganui-o-Hei Marine Reserve, a sanctuary for diverse marine life that thrives on its sandy flats and rocky reefs. It’s also a perfect spot for snorkelling and diving.
The nearest towns are Hahei (2 km), Whitianga (35 km) and Coromandel (54 km).
Visitors can park at the Hahei Visitor Car Park on Pā Road (free) or at the Cathedral Cove Gateway Car Park on Lees Road (charged).
The Mautohe Cathedral Cove Track begins at a drop-off area at the top of Grange Road. There is no parking at this site. Visitors can either catch the shuttle bus from the Hahei Car Park, or take the short walk up Grange Road to the track entrance.
Please visit the Department of Conservation(opens in new window) website for information on alternative walking routes to the cove. Please note, the track from Hahei Beach to the Grange Road track entrance (Hahei Beach Walk) is closed due to ongoing land instability. For your safety, please don’t use this track.
Commercial operators offer water taxi services and cruises. Kayaking is another great way to access the beach.
There are no bins at Cathedral Cove, so please take your rubbish with you when you leave. This helps protect wildlife and keeps the reserve beautiful for everyone to enjoy.
The landscape around Cathedral Cove is naturally unstable, which means rockfalls and landslides can occur and may cause serious injury. To reduce the risk, avoid stopping or sitting near cliffs, standing under the archway, or visiting the cove during or after heavy rain.
The water around Cathedral Cove is rough and the area is not patrolled by lifeguards. The bay is also prone to rips.
To stay safe in the water:
Please visit the Department of Conservation website(opens in new window) before planning a trip.
Please note there are no toilets on Cathedral Cove beach, but toilets are available at the entrance to the Mautohe Cathedral Cove Track and a 10-15 minute walk from the beach.
The Tiaki Promise is a commitment to care for New Zealand, for now, and for future generations. By following the Tiaki Promise, you are making a commitment to act as a guardian, protecting and preserving our home.
