Hahei & Cathedral Cove
This
section of the Coast is a popular area, accessible from
the Stone Steps Wharf at Ferry Landing and from the highway.
The offshore islands provide protection for the beaches
around Hahei. The waters offshore and the islands have been
incorporated as a marine park and offer some excellent diving.
Hahei's attractive beach is named
after the Maori chief Hei. From the lookout there is access
to majestic Cathedral Cove and the marine reserve.The
Te Pare point historic reserve at the southern end of Hahei
Beach is the site of a pa occupied by the Ngati Hei people.
Accessible
only on foot or by boat, famous Cathedral Cove is one of
the "must visit" sites on the Coromandel Peninsula.
The track begins at the northern end of Hahei.
Cathedral
Cove Marine Reserve, Te Whanganui-A-Hei,
covers 9 square kilometres and is New Zealand's sixth marine
reserve. It is administered by the Department
of Conservation.
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, moluscs and fish. Sheltered from the worst of
the southerly winds Te Whanganui-A-Hei gives visitors and
unparalleled opportunity to learn from and enjoy an unspoilt
marine environment.
Information
signs are located at Hahei Beach, Wigmore Stream, Cooks
Beach and Whitianga launching ramps. These signs have maps
showing the reserve boundaries as well as other information
about the reserve. The actual boundary is marked by large
white posts placed on the islands and at each end of the
mainland boundary. If you are unsure of the boundaries please
refer to the signs or seek additional information from the
Department of Conservation. |
