Be informed and stay safe. Keep you and your loved ones up to date with the latest water-related services, information and events around Hauraki Coromandel. Our region is surrounded by 400km of rugged coastline, pristine golden beaches and secluded bays. There are water activities around every corner, catering for all adventures.

Many of our beaches are not patrolled, with only a few patrolled over the summer by Surf Life Saving NZ. Beaches can be affected by dangerous conditions. Find which beaches are patrolled and when.

Additional Tools & Information

Activities On The Water

From diving and fishing to surfing and kayaking, the adventures to be had around the water in The Coromandel are endless. With over 400km of stunning coastline it's no surprise water activities are a key pastime for so many when in The Coromandel. Discover stunning locations and memorable adventures with local guides who will share the stories of our waters, the wildlife and our people with you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Hot Water Beach

YES! The water is hot - up to 64 degrees Celsius. Always check the temperature before entering and always test yourself before letting the children and elderly enter.

Owharoa Falls in the Karangahake Gorge
Absolutely. Hauraki Coromandel is home to several beautiful waterfalls, ranging from easily accessible roadside stops to hidden gems reached via short bush walks. Popular choices include Owharoa Falls near Karangahake Gorge, the Waiau Falls on the 309 road and waterfalls found throughout the Kauaeranga Valley. Many provide excellent photo opportunities and peaceful picnic spots. Discover waterfalls and scenic walks across the region.

Snorkelling in the waters around Hauraki Coromandel

Yes! Snorkelling and diving are some of the best ways to appreciate the true beauty of our coastlines and the underwater world of Hauraki Coromandel. Hire your own snorkel equipment or enjoy a guided snorkel and dive boat tour. 

Swimming at Cathedral Cove Hauraki Coromandel

Yes you can swim at Cathedral Cove, however the beaches at Cathedral Cove can be wild and are not patrolled by lifeguards. 

There are rip currents in the bay. There can be big waves. Boats, kayaks and jet skis sail in the bay and land on the beach. The archway and parts of the beach become impassable at higher tides or during big swells.

Stay safe in and around the water when visiting Mautohe Cathedral Cove:

  • Stay out of the archway when there is water in it
  • Watch for incoming tides. You could get cut off and not able to go back through the archway.  
  • Visit at low tide and when the seas are calm. You can check the tide times and the sea conditions. 
  • Supervise children at all times

Hot Water Beach, Hauraki Coromandel

We advise swimmers to stay between the flags if the Hot Water Beach Surf Life Saving Crew Service are on patrol. The rocks in front of the hot springs are a hazardous location for strong currents, holes and rips making swimming in this location dangerous.

Remember – always swim between the flags and if in doubt don’t go out.

Surf Lifeguards

Yes, however many of our beaches are not patrolled by Surf Life Saving NZ and can be affected by dangerous conditions, including rips. 

During the summer months on beaches that are patrolled, remember to always swim between the flags. 

Check conditions before swimming. Find which beaches are patrolled and when.

Summer at Cathedral Cove

Rockfalls and landslides - The Mautohe Cathedral Cove landscape is unstable. Rockfalls and landslides could cause serious injury or death. The risk is highest during or after heavy rain, but is still present in good weather.

Understand the risk before visiting and decide whether the trip is right for you.

To reduce the risk:

  • do not stop or sit near the cliffs
  • do not stop under the rock archway - move quickly through it
  • do not visit during or after heavy rain.

Water Safety - The beaches at Cathedral Cove are wild and are not patrolled by lifeguards. Many people have got into trouble in the water here. 

There are rip currents in the bay. There can be big waves. Boats, kayaks and jet skis sail in the bay and land on the beach. The archway and parts of the beach become impassable at higher tides or during big swells.

Stay safe in and around the water when visiting Mautohe Cathedral Cove:

  • Stay out of the archway when there is water in it
  • Watch for incoming tides. You could get cut off and not able to go back through the archway.  
  • Visit at low tide and when the seas are calm. You can check the tide times and the sea conditions. 
  • Supervise children at all times.

Surfing in Tairua

Whangamatā Beach is one of New Zealand's most famous surf breaks and was voted best beach in New Zealand by NZ Herald Readers in 2018. Other popular surf beaches in Hauraki Coromandel include Sailor’s Grave, Waihi Beach, and Tairua Beach.

Fishing charter in the Firth of Thames

Fishing charters or guided fishing trips are the best fishing experiences in Hauraki Coromandel. For on-shore fishing, enjoy surfcasting from our beaches, wharves, and rocks. Remember to check current fishing regulations and size limits before heading out.

Waiua Falls Swimming Spot

From sheltered beaches and secluded coves to refreshing freshwater swimming holes, Hauraki Coromandel has it all. Families often enjoy the calm waters of the Whangamatā Harbour and the Firth of Thames, while adventurous visitors can cool off beneath waterfalls or in river pools throughout the region. Always swim between the flags where lifeguards are present and check local conditions before entering the water. See our guide for beaches and swimming holes.