Cathedral Cove - Best Part of the Coromandel Peninsula | New Zealand

2nd January 2013

After an incredibly early start for us, and a quick stop off in Tairua for sunscreen (50+) and coffee we drove north to Hahei to start the walk to Cathedral Cove. Even though we attempted to get there at a reasonable time, it took forever to find a car parking space. It was heaving everywhere, and rightly so, the weather was gorgeous!

Then began the twenty minute hike to the beach. Word of warning to the unfit, there are other ways to get to the beach like sea kayak. However, if you want the best reward ever, prepare for ups and downs. Linda and Ben steamed ahead and after quite a few water breaks and lots of sweating, I could see the final stairs leading down to the beach. Once I stepped off the last step and onto the beach I looked up and was met with the most wonderful view.

There were quite a few people around but that didn't detract from how beautiful this beach is. We pitched up an umbrella and chilled listening to the band we would be watching on stage later on, Six60.

After a few hours sunbathing, swimming and reading, we headed back up the track for lunch. I was so happy to see the car! After a cheeky ice cream in Hahei, we drove to the next beach of the day, Hot Water Beach. As the name suggests, you can dig a hole in the sand and experience the geo thermal pools. In all honesty, we only stayed for around half an hour as the sea was rough and it was even more crowded than Cathedral Cove.

Back on the road again, and up to our resting place for the night. Linda's friend had a bach in Cooks Beach. We got ready for the gig there, and her friend took us to the middle of nowhere to the Coroglen Tavern. I have been told this place is a kiwi institution. We met up with the group from New Year, and had a few ciders. Everyone seemed to be camping out, making the most of the gig.

 

Six60 were electric, and the atmosphere was amazing. Everyone seemed to know each other, and I had the time of my life dancing with my friends under the stars. I have since seen Six60 in London, and would recommend their music to anyone!