If you are travelling to the North Island of New Zealand, whatever you do, allow at least 3-4 days to explore this stunning location. We only had 2 nights at Hahei Beach and we intend to come back for a full holiday later this year. We could easily spend 7-10 days relaxing and sightseeing. Hahei Beach itself is beautiful, but then there is Cathedral Cove. Be prepared for a long, strenuous hike to get to the Cove, and there is a sign at the start of the walk reminding you to take water - make sure you do....and sunscreen. If you plan to go to Hot Water Beach, be sure to plan around the tide times, as it is only accessible at low tide. There are kayak trips, snorkelling, ferry rides, fishing trips.....so much to do. Love it, love it, love it!!!!

The walk to the cove is indeed a little challaging, esspecially the stairs at the end, but everyone with a reasonable fitness level should make it. Once there you're captured in beauty (but possibly not alone..) The two bays are very nice and the cove as connection between them is makes a picture perfect postcard. Also check out the little waterfall on the righthand side, just walk past the toilets to the rockwall. With sunny weather there is water dripping but after a little rain I could imaging it would be a pretty sight to see on this pretty place.

A trial license for a vendor has been granted to sell snacks from a small booth at Mares Leg Cove (the walkers portal to Cathedral Cove).

Everyone who has ever been there should agree that the walk to from Hahei (with the side routes to Gemstone and Stingray Bays) to Cathedral Cove should be kept as natural as possible.

If you believe the beauty of the Coromandel should be kept, walk in your own snacks, walk out your own trash and don't support the unnecessary commercialism of this fine tourist attraction.