Cathedral Cove Access Track Reinstatement
Project location
Cathedral Cove, Hahei, Coromandel Peninsula
Client
Department of Conservation
Services provided by Frame Group
Feasibility Studies and Options Assessment
Detailed Design and Engineering
Consents Management
Construction Management
Partners
Ngāti Hei - iwi
Tonkin + Taylor – Geotechnical Engineering
Following the storm-related closure of the Cathedral Cove track, Frame Group was engaged by the Department of Conservation to assess options for safe and resilient access to one of New Zealand’s most iconic visitor destinations.
In collaboration with Tonkin + Taylor and Ngāti Hei, Frame Group delivered a whole-of-corridor assessment that explored both short and long-term solutions. This included on-the-ground condition assessments, hazard integration, design feasibility and cost modelling. Options ranged from minor track realignments to avoid slip sites through to more significant structures in alternative locations to completely bypass high-risk areas.
The project provided a comprehensive matrix of access options, helping DOC weigh cost, public safety and climate resilience. Frame Group contributed across feasibility, design, costing and whole-of-life planning to support both urgent response and long-term decision-making.
Since the initial feasibility work, Frame Group’s role has expanded to support implementation. This has included design input for short-term access works that re-opened Cathedral Cove, reinstatement design for the Gemstone Bay track, and a new realignment design linking Hahei to Grange Road.
