ccessible only by foot, boat, or kayak, the famous Cathedral Cove is one of the “must visit” sites on the Coromandel Peninsula. Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve, Te Whanganui-A-Hei, covers nine square kilometres and is New Zealand’s sixth marine reserve. It is administered by the Department of Conservation (DOC).
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, crustacea, 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 unspoiled marine environment. To find out more, check the DOC website.
Kayaking within the Te Whanganui-A-Hei Marine Reserve
Most take the spectacular coastal walk into Cathedral Cove, but another way is by kayak. This allows you to explore the breathtaking coastline and the reserve. The picturesque limestone cliffs, superb volcanic coastline, clear water, and the abundant marine life of the marine reserve blend to create one of New Zealand’s best kayaking trips. As you kayak through the marine reserve, your guides will also take you through limestone archways, into sea caves, and they will even serve you a café-quality cappuccino once you reach the Cathedral Cove 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 named after.
Cathedral Cove Walk
You will discover magnificent scenery as you walk (two hour return trip) the track adjacent to the marine reserve to Cathedral Cove. The main track gives you access to Gemstone Bay – the snorkel trail is situated here – Stingray Bay, Mares Leg Cove, and Cathedral Cove. You may start walking from Hahei beach (the western end of the beach) or from the car park at the top end of Grange Road (turn left at the Hahei General Store).