Safety First as Mautohe Cathedral Cove Reopens for Summer

After being closed for almost two years, the Mautohe Cathedral Cove Walk near Hahei on the Coromandel reopened to the public from 2pm on Sunday 1 December 2024. The walking track, which was extensively damaged by Cyclone Hale and Cyclone Gabrielle in early 2023, has been repaired and rerouted around a landslide, offering visitors the chance to explore this special part of Aotearoa again. 

To ensure an enjoyable and safe visit, NZ Mountain Safety Council (MSC) is urging visitors to plan ahead, follow the Department of Conservation (DOC) safety guidelines and be aware of the hazards during their trip.

“It’s essential to be prepared for a trip to Cathedral Cove or any short or day walk this summer,” says MSC Chief Executive Mike Daisley. “Before you go, find out what to expect on the track, and check the weather forecast and for any track alerts. Take plenty of water and sun protection, and wear appropriate footwear. Taking time to prepare will ensure you have a safe and more enjoyable trip.” 

What to Expect When Walking to Cathedral Cove

The new track is 2.5 km and will take about 45 minutes for moderately fit people to reach the cove. The track follows the cliff-tops before descending steeply toward the famous Cathedral Cove archway. Along the way, walkers will be treated to stunning coastal views, with the opportunity to spot Te Hoho pinnacle, which rises from the sea just off Cathedral Cove beach. While the track is well formed, it includes steep sections and steps, so sturdy footwear is best. 

Rockfall Danger

The Cathedral Cove coastline is naturally unstable. Rockfalls and landslides can happen without warning, especially during or after heavy rain. To ensure your safety, DOC and MSC strongly advise visitors to:

• Avoid the cliffs. Stay well back from the cliff edges to minimise the risk of falling debris.
• Move quickly through the arch. If walking through the arch, do not stop under it.
• Check the weather. Be aware of the latest weather conditions and avoid visiting the area during or immediately after heavy rain, as this increases the chance of rockfalls and landslides.
• Be aware of water hazards. Visitors should stay out of the archway when there is water in it, watch for incoming tides and supervise children at all times. The best time to visit the archway is at low tide and when the sea is calm.

The repaired walking track is a temporary solution and DOC says it may not last through extreme weather events. As there will always be a risk of rockfall and landslides, visitors should always stay informed of the latest track and weather conditions.

Damage to the archway at Mautohe Cathedral Cove | CREDIT Department of Conservation

Plan and Prepare with Plan My Walk

Plan My Walk is an easy way to keep up to date and plan for your trip. The free, easy-to-use trip planning tool features a map of the rerouted Cathedral Cove Walk plus more than 1,850 other tracks across Aotearoa. Plan My Walk provides essential track information, track alerts, the weather forecast and warnings, and useful reviews from other walkers. Create an account to receive notifications about the latest track and weather conditions before you head out. 

What Else You Need to Know

The Cathedral Cove beach is remote, with no drinking water or rubbish bins.  There are toilets 10-15 minutes up the track from the beach as well as at the track entrance. It is often very hot in summer, so take plenty of water and good sun protection, and take all your rubbish with you when you leave.

Visitors can park for free at the Hahei Visitor Carpark at the start of Hahei village. From here, they can walk or take the shuttle to the start of the track at Grange Road. If you opt to walk this section, be aware that it will add 30 minutes each way, including a long uphill section with little shade. 

For a shorter walk, visitors can take the Cathedral Cove Gateway Trail. This 30- to 40-minute walk through farmland offers a less strenuous route to the cove. There is paid parking at the start of this track.

PHOTO CREDIT | Daniel Fernandes de Oliveira - Archway at Mautohe Cathedral Cove