Tucked along the south coast of Hahei lies one of the Coromandel’s secret gems.
Running from Great Barrier Island through the peninsula to the Kaimai Range, the Coromandel Ranges are the remnants of ancient volcanoes – a landscape quite literally born of fire. Over 18 million years, this dynamic landscape has evolved into a series of secret caves, archways and hidden bays shaped by the relentless force of the ocean.
Our south coast is dominated by rhyolite – rock born from slow-moving lava that cooled quickly at the Earth’s surface. Whether you’re a geology nerd or not, there’s something pretty cool about the thick, sturdy rock layers, the towering sea stacks, and the intricate natural patterns carved by wind and waves. Over time, these layers of rhyolite have been shaped into cliffs, coves, and rock formations that make this coastline unlike any other.
“Over 18 million years, this dynamic landscape has evolved into a series of secret caves, archways and hidden bays shaped by the relentless force of the ocean”.
Hahei Beach offers an impressive view of Mahurangi Island, whose name is often translated as ‘rock reaching for the sky’. For many visitors to Hahei, this sight has become an iconic part of their holiday experience. On the island’s western side, it’s easy to see how Mahurangi earned its name – sheer rock faces tower above, with a network of caves shaped by centuries of erosion.
Those same ocean forces have eaten away at other parts of our coastline, sculpting magnificent structures. Among these formations lies Waiora Ana, or ‘The Blowhole’ – a towering, cylindrical structure whose ceiling collapsed long ago. Only accessible by water, this spot feels like a hidden sanctuary, tucked away from the world. Guests who are lucky enough to visit Waiora Ana describe it as a deeply humbling, almost spiritual experience.
Just a short drive from Hahei lies Hot Water Beach, famous for its natural geothermal springs.
Generations of families have flocked here to dig their own hot pools in the sand, tapping into a warm spring heated by the Earth’s core.
This is made possible by the Orua fault line which runs beneath the sand, channelling geothermal energy to the surface.
The same fault line also created one of our coastline’s highlights – Orua, New Zealand’s second-largest sea cave. As you approach the cave, you can see the fault line running vertically down the centre, a powerful reminder of the seismic forces that shaped this rugged coastline.
For an up-close view of this amazing landscape, the Hahei Explorer is the way to go. Known as the original Cathedral Cove boat tour in the Coromandel, the Hahei Explorer has been guiding visitors along this dramatic volcanic coast since 1992. The one-hour scenic cruise takes you to hidden coastal spots and rich marine habitats. With purpose-built boats and a team passionate about the coast, the Hahei Explorer offers a deeper look into this breathtaking region, born of fire and shaped by the sea.
Hahei Explorer
Book Now here!
info@haheiexplorer.co.nz
0800 268 386
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Words by Ella Knobloch
