For typical New Zealand beach town experiences, visit Hahei on The Coromandel Peninsula. The town’s name comes from Hei, an ancestor of the Ngāti Hei people, who arrived here by canoe in the 1300s. Come for abundant ocean-oriented activities and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
Start at one of the peninsula’s top sights, Cathedral Cove, accessible only by boat or on foot. Walk along a clifftop path from Hahei Beach for about 1 hour then descend into the cove and its iconic, naturally formed archway. Appreciate the natural grandeur of a huge archway and cavern between two secluded coves, as well as the sandy beach and the pohutukawa trees providing shade. Gaze out toward Te Hoho rock, sculpted by nature to emulate the prow of a ship approaching the beach.
Delve underwater to meet local marine wildlife at Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve. This sponge garden and reef system has marblefish, butterfish, red moki, goatfish, trevally and snapper. Snorkel along the Gemstone Trail, a pathway of buoys, with interpretive panels showing pictures and information about the species you’ll encounter. Dive deep to view delicate corals, crayfish, black angelfish, brittlefish and underwater boulder fields near Motueka Island.
Dig a natural hot tub at Hot Water Beach. The water flowing from two fissures on the beach is up to 147 F (64 C). Access the hot springs at low tide and generally about 2 hours before or after. Buy a shovel at a local shop to dig your own spa, with warm water naturally infused with calcium, magnesium, potassium, fluorine, bromine and silica.
Beyond its sea-centered activities, Hahei offers art galleries, cafés, shops and the Te Pare Historic Reserve on the site of an ancient Maori village. Spend several days in this delightful place, particularly in summer, when it’s buzzing with life.
To access Hahei attractions, park at the lot at the Hahei Village entrance. From here, walk or travel by shuttle bus to access the beach, town center and Cathedral Cove.
