Cathedral Cove Walk Introduction: This well-loved trail gracefully follows the coastline, offering breathtaking vistas of the spectacular coastal scenery throughout its length, culminating at the beach beneath the world-famous rock archway. At the north-western end, a loop track provides an extension to the main walk, rewarding hikers with even more awe-inspiring views.
The Cathedral Cove Walk can be Closed After Severe Weather Events
Please Check The DOC (Department of Conservation) Webpage for closures. When the Cathedral Cove Walk is closed due to storm damage, the only way to visit the Cove is by booking a sea-based experience (boat or kayak).
Possible Short Notice Closures: The Cathedral Cove Walk may close at short notice to protect visitors from rockfall, dangerous sea swells, or other hazards, usually caused by heavy rain or large seas. Before you embark on your journey, always check the Department of Conservation (DOC) website for closure alerts.
Seasonal Restrictions: The car park is closed annually from 1st October to 30th April. During this time, a park and ride shuttle bus service operates from the visitor car park at the entrance to Hahei village.
The Walk
Distance: 5 km (return)
Duration for Walking and Tramping: 1 hour 30 minutes return
Animal Restrictions: Dogs are not allowed on the track.
Getting to Cathedral Cove Walk: The nearest towns to Cathedral Cove are Hahei (2 km), Whitianga (35 km), and Coromandel (54 km). Tour operators and shuttles to and from Auckland are available. Additionally, a privately operated water taxi operates from Hahei, subject to sea conditions. The track begins at a drop-off area at the end of Grange Road, or alternatively, it can be accessed from the northern end of Hahei Beach, which takes an extra 20 minutes each way.
Please note: Due to increased traffic in Hahei village during summer, the car park at the start of the track is closed from 1st October to 30th April. However, free parking is available at the entrance to the village. From there, you can either walk along the beach to the start of the track or use the park and ride shuttle bus (although this means you will miss Hahei Beach and the beautiful cliff walk).
Elevation Change: The track has an elevation change of 80 meters.
Hazards:
- Be cautious of rapidly changing weather conditions.
- There is a potential for rockfall in and around the arch due to natural weathering and erosion – exercise caution.
- Certain areas of the beach may be closed due to danger from falling rocks.
Be Prepared: Make sure to bring along food, water, and wear sturdy footwear.
Pack In, Pack Out: Please note that there are no rubbish bins at Cathedral Cove, including the car park. Help keep this stunning place clean by taking all your rubbish with you when you leave.
History & Culture: Cathedral Cove holds significant cultural importance to the local iwi Ngāti Hei. The area was first visited in the 13th century by Hei, whose memory lives on in the names Hahei and Te Whanganui a Hei, or Mercury Bay.
What the Reviews say
We’ve analysed 1000s of reviews by folks who’ve walked the Cathedral Cove track. Here’s what we found:
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A tapestry woven from nearly 2,000 individual journeys to one of New Zealand’s most sacred natural spaces The Departure The morning air carries that particular freshness that exists only in
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What nearly 2,000 travelers reveal about mastering the elements for the perfect Cathedral Cove experience Emma checks her weather app for the fourth time this morning, watching the forecast toggle
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What nearly 2,000 travelers reveal about the true physical demands of New Zealand’s most famous coastal walk Sarah stares at her phone screen in the Cathedral Cove car park, scrolling
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What nearly 2,000 visitors reveal about finding solitude at New Zealand’s most photographed beach The alarm pierces the pre-dawn quiet at 5:30 AM. Outside your Coromandel accommodation, the world is