Coromandel’s Mautohe Cathedral Cove tracks remain closed as the Department of Conservation (DOC) arranges for expert geotechnical advice on the site’s safety.
The current closure, under DOC’s Trigger Action Response Plan for Mautohe Cathedral Cove, stems from the recent extreme rain event across the North Island.
Landslides and rockfalls are a known risk across the wider coastal area DOC manages, including Mautohe Cathedral Cove, said DOC’s Coromandel Operations Manager, Nick Kelly.
Mr Kelly says initial inspections have identified several areas of concern requiring further detailed assessment.
“Ngāti Hei contractors and DOC staff are on site starting the clean-up and assessment operations under a strict safety protocol,” he said.
“Independent geotechnical advisors will be on site this week to complete detailed inspections and determine next steps.”
DOC has engaged Tonkin and Taylor to carry out a geotechnical assessment at several sites: Mautohe Cathedral Cove, Opera Point and Waimata Gemstone Bay.
“We expect their initial verbal advice to be available early next week,” said Mr Kelly.
Contractors working on the reinstatement of the track to Waimata Gemstone Bay have also been withdrawn.
Mr Kelly says public safety remains DOC’s top priority.
“The tracks at Mautohe Cathedral Cove will remain closed until we’re satisfied it’s safe to reopen. This is not the time to go naturing at Mautohe Cathedral Cove.”
“We understand it’s frustrating and disappointing to have the cove closed again.
“But recent events on the East Coast and in Mt Maunganui – along with advice previously obtained by DOC – have shown the risk to public safety must be carefully managed based on reliable information.”
The cove can still be viewed or accessed from the sea but DOC says anyone planning to do this should think carefully about the risks – including the possibility of rockfall and further landslides.
There has also been a large landslide on the closed Hahei coastal track to Grange Rd. DOC says cracking in the path near the Grange Rd look-out has expanded – signalling further potential for landslides in that area.
Opera Point, where the track was reinstated in 2025, has also been compromised with a landslip and is closed as it’s not safe to use. People should not use that track, the Department has advised.
There is more encouraging news for those wanting to enjoy a stay in DOC’s North Coromandel campsites. They are expected to reopen this weekend, but people planning to book a site at any of the campsites should check the DOC website for alerts or contact Booking Services.
