Cathedral Cove is perhaps one of the most iconic and photographed walks in New Zealand’s North Island. Famed for its appearance in The Chronicles of Narnia, the Cathedral Cove feels like a storybook setting brought to life, with its dramatic archway framing the stunning beach and bright emerald waters. Set within the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve, this stunning walk takes about 1.5 hours to complete and passes through native trees, cliff-tops overlooking the coastline, before finally descending as it nears the beach.
How long is the Cathedral Cove Walk?
Duration and distance
- 1.5 hours
- 5km (return)
Main highlights of the Cathedral Cove Walk
- Stunning rock arches and hidden caves
- Gorgeous beaches
- Gemstone and Stingray Bays
Cathedral Cove Walk location and accessibility:
- Whitianga to the Cathedral Cove Walk: 50 minutes (drive)
- Auckland to the Cathedral Cove Walk: 2 hours and 30 minutes (drive)
- Difficulty level: Suitable for all ages
Getting started on Cathedral Cove Walk
Starting from Hahei, the path follows along the headland, gradually descending into the hidden valley of Gemstone Bay. The track is well-maintained, making it accessible to visitors of all ages, including families with children.
A short detour through a forest of native puriri trees adds a change of scenery before rejoining the main trail. From there, the path ascends out of the valley to the trail’s zenith, offering a pause to soak in the sweeping views of distant islands.
The trail then crosses open fields, dense scrub, and a tranquil pine forest before the final descent leads to the water’s edge and to the Cathedral Cove.
Additional paths to explore near the Cathedral Cove Walk
- Gemstone and Stingray Bay: Discover the underwater beauty with side tracks guiding you to snorkelling and swimming locations, including an intriguing sea cave
- Hahei Western End: If you’re looking for a more extensive walk, begin from Hahei’s western extremity and meet the main Cathedral Cove track at the carpark. Add an additional 20–30 minutes to your journey.
Important Information about the Cathedral Cove Walk
- The north-western segment of Stingray Bay beach remains off-limits owing to the risk of falling rocks.
- Exercise caution while passing through Cathedral Cove’s arch; the area is known for occasional rockfall hazards.
- Pack in and pack out, as there are no bins at Cathedral Cove
- There are no toilets on Cathedral Cove, but toilets are available at the entrance of the Mautohe Cathedral Cove track and near the entrance from Lees Road.
After a day on the trail, if you’re planning on lingering a little longer, unwind with a stay nearby in one of the many Bachcare holidays homes in Coromandel offering both comfort and convenience to explore the region.
