1.5 Hrs 2.5 km (return)

Highlights

  • Stunning natural rock arches and caves
  • Beautiful sandy beaches
  • Gemstone and Stingray Bays

Proximity

GRADE: EASY

Take care around cliffs in case of rockfalls.

Explore the spectacular Coromandel coastline as you walk to Gemstone and Stingray Bays and the famous Cathedral Cove.

Follow the well-graded path as it follows the headland from Hahei and begins descending steadily into the Gemstone Bay valley.

A side loop track takes you through a grove of native puriri tree before rejoining the main trail.

From here the track leads you out of the valley and upwards to the track's highpoint. Views of offshore islands make for a perfect rest spot.

Journey across pasture, scrubland and a pine forest where native shrubs compete in the undergrowth. Descend down to the water, where you can walk through a majestic natural rock arch that joins the two sandy beaches of Cathedral Cove.

Alternative routes

  • Gemstone and Stingray Bay: Side tracks lead down to the bays where you will find great spots for snorkelling and swimming, including a sea cave to explore.
  • Hahei Western End: For a longer walk, follow the track from the western end of Hahei. Connect to the Cathedral Cove track at the carpark. Allow an extra 20–30 mins. 

Department of Conservation

Click the link below for more information and detailed maps about this hike.

Cathedral Cove Walk(opens in new window)

More information

Getting there

  • The walk begins at the end of Grange Road at Hahei, Coromandel.

 

Need to know

  • The north-western end of Stingray Bay beach is closed due to the danger of falling rocks.
  • Take care when walking through the Cathedral Cove arch as rockfall hazards exist in this area.

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