Hahei Beach

Set on the beautiful Coromandel Peninsula, Hahei is often overlooked in favour of its better known neighbour, Cathedral Cove. Famed for its limestone rock arch, Cathedral Cove has been used a location in a number of films including the Chronicles of Narnia movies.

But Hahei beach itself is well worth a visit. It has the same limestone cliffs and pale, golden sand fringed with pohutukawa trees; it is lapped by the same clear, turquoise water with views to a number of tree-crested islands just off the coast.

These islands, and the coast to the north, help protect this stretch of coast from the ocean swells. That makes Hahei and its surrounds a great spot for snorkelling, diving and kayaking. In fact the area directly offshore forms part of a marine reserve which is home to a wide range of plant and animal species.

At the southern end of Hahei Beach is the Te Pare Historic Reserve which encompasses the remains of two ancient Maori fortified villages (Ngati Hei pa).