Voted as one of the 102 Must Do's for Kiwi's
Accessible only on foot or by boat, famous Cathedral Cove is one of the “must visit” sites on the Coromandel Peninsula. The track begins at the northern end of Hahei.
Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve, Te Whanganui- A-Hei, covers 9 square kilometres and is New Zealand’s sixth marine reserve. It is administered by the Department of Conservation.
This site was chosen for a marine reserve because of the rich and varied habitats associated with the coastline and outlying islands.
Reefs of hard rock, soft sediments, intricate caves and underwater arches provide homes for complex communities of plants, crustaceans, molluscs and fish. Sheltered from the worst of the southerly winds Te Whanganui-A-Hei gives visitors an opportunity to learn from and enjoy an unspoilt marine environment.
Kayaking within the Te Whanganui a Hei Marine Reserve
Many kiwis will be familiar with the spectacular coastal walk into Cathedral Cove, but perhaps the best way to explore the breathtaking coastline of the reserve is by kayak.
The picturesque limestone cliffs, superb volcanic coastline, clear water and abundant marine life of Hahei’s marine reserve blend to create New Zealand’s best kayaking trip.
Along the way your guides will take you kayaking through limestone archways, into sea caves and will even serve up a café quality cappuchino for you on the beach!
The area is rich in stories from the many navigators who first discovered the Mercury Bay, like Cook, Kupe and Hei who the marine reserve is name after.
Cathedral Cove Walk
There are several scenic tracks on land adjacent to the reserve, including the 2hr return walk to Cathedral Cove track, which gives access to Gemstone Bay, Mares Leg and Cathedral Cove. Foot access to the Cathedral Cove car park is at the western end of Hahei Beach and vehicle access is up Grange Road (turn left past shops and go all the way to end of Grange Road).
