Review of the Cathedral Cove Hike in Hahei, New Zealand
The Cathedral Cove hike, located in the stunning Coromandel Peninsula, is a quintessential New Zealand experience, offering breathtaking coastal views and access to some of the country’s most picturesque beaches. Despite recent reports and official notices stating that parts of the trail are closed due to washouts and missing steps, adventurous hikers can still enjoy much of what this iconic trail has to offer, albeit with caution.
Starting the Journey:
Opting to begin at Hahei Beach maximizes the length of the hike, providing an extended experience of the beautiful coastal scenery that this area is famous for. From the outset, the trail impresses with expansive views of the ocean and rugged cliff faces, leading towards the remote bays that make this walk so memorable.
Navigating Trail Closures:
It’s important for potential hikers to know that while the Cathedral Cove itself is still accessible, getting there involves bypassing barriers that have been put in place due to trail damage. The last segments of the trail, just before reaching Cathedral Cove, are notably compromised, with significant washouts and missing steps. My experience was that navigating around the barriers set up to block off these hazardous areas felt riskier than traversing the damaged trail sections themselves.
Safety Considerations:
Hiking beyond closed trail signs is not officially recommended and is done at one’s own risk. The conditions can be unstable, and while the damaged areas were navigable during my visit, this may not always be the case, especially after weather events or further erosion. Hikers choosing to proceed should be experienced and fully prepared for rough terrain.
Views and Highlights:
The scenery throughout the hike is spectacular, with panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding landscapes. Even if you decide against venturing past the barriers, the views leading up to Stingray Bay and Gemstone Bay are impressive and worth the effort. It’s regrettable that access to these areas is restricted due to the trail closures, as they offer some of the most picturesque spots along the route.
Conclusion:
The Cathedral Cove hike remains a breathtaking experience, from the starting point at Hahei Beach to the iconic cove itself. For those willing to take the risks associated with the current trail conditions, the rewards are significant: stunning coastal views, access to less frequented bays, and the dramatic backdrop of Cathedral Cove. However, all hikers should weigh the risks, respect local advisories, and consider safety paramount. For those who go, the memories of Cathedral Cove’s natural beauty are likely to be vivid and enduring. Should the trail be fully restored in the future, it will undoubtedly reclaim its status as a must-do for any visitor to the Coromandel Peninsula.
Check it out on All Trails!