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Southland sshort walks
a selection of
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Introduction
Information
Track Symbols
Mavora Lakes
Piano Flat
Glenure Allan Reserve
Waikaka Way Walkway
Croydon Bush, Dolamore Park Scenic Reserves
Dunsdale Reserve
Forest Hill Scenic Reserve
Kamahi/Edendale Scenic Reserve
Seaward Downs Scenic Reserve
Kingswood Bush Scenic Reserve
Borland Nature Walk
Tuatapere Scenic Reserve
Alex McKenzie Park and Arboretum
Roundhill
Location of walks map
Mores Scenic Reserve
Taramea Bay Walkway
Sandy Point Domain
Invercargill Estuary Walkway
Invercargill Parks & Gardens
Greenpoint Reserve
Bluff Hill/Motupohue
Waituna Viewing Shelter
Waipapa Point
Waipohatu Recreation Area
Slope Point
Waikawa
Curio Bay
Wildlife viewing
Walks further afield
For more information
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For the location of each walk see the centre page
map on page 17 and 18.
Southland is renowned for challenging tracks that
venture into wild and rugged landscapes. Yet many of
the region's most attractive places can be enjoyed in a
more leisurely way – without the need for tramping boots
or heavy packs.
This booklet features a selection of Southland's short,
accessible walking tracks.
These walks invite you to sample the region's rich natural
heritage – a diversity that encompasses mountains,
forests, lakes, rivers, sandy beaches and rocky
shorelines.
Natural remnants of native forest are dotted amongst
the farmlands of the Southland Plains; precious
reminders of the plant and animal communities that
once occupied the area.
Exploring ancient forests, windswept coastlines and
sheltered picnic places is easy - they are on the doorstep.
All of the walks in this booklet are within a two hour drive
from Invercargill.
Enjoy them!
Southland sshort walks
introduction to
Protect plants and animals
Remove rubbish
Keep streams and lakes clean
Keep to the track
Consider others
Respect our cultural heritage
Enjoy your visit
Toitu te whenua
(leave the land undisturbed)
1
Short walking tracks combine healthy exercise with
the enjoyment of beautiful places.
They
take between 15 minutes and 4 hours to complete
are generally well formed and maintained
can be walked in sensible leisure footwear
are usually accessible throughout the year
are suitable for most ages and fitness levels
may be suitable for wheelchairs or strollers
have car parking available
Even the easiest walks need safety sense.
Be sure towear comfortable shoes
dress for the weather (and be prepared for it to change)
stay on the track
allow enough time to walk at your own pace
keep young children in sight
take a snack and drink of water
tell someone where you are going and when you will be back
on longer walks
walking tracks
safety
walk
short
for your
choosing a
Use the centre page map to choose where you want to go, then check the walk numbers against the matching descriptions.
Symbols provide additional information about facilities,
opportunities and requirements. See the next page for the
symbols used at these walks.
2
symbolswalking track
toilets
wildlife
barbeque
lookout
swimming
camping drinking water
playground fishing
parking
picnic area
walking track
no dogsdogs on leash
disabled accesstoilets
interpretationpanels
trampingtrack
disabled access
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symbolswalking track
Please note;Easy access short walk; suitable for people of all abilities, wheelchairs and strollers.
Walking track; well formed, easy, longer walks.
Tramping track; mostly unformed with steep, rough or muddy sections.
This symbol does not appear throughout the brochure as parking is available at all sites.
Refer to location map on page 17A combination of picturesque mountains, lakes, beech forest and tussock grassland attracts a variety of recreational activities. The area is part of Te Wahipounamu – South West New Zealand – World Heritage Area.
South Mavora Track 2-3 hours one wayThe track starts over the swing bridge at the outlet of the North Lake, near the camping area and can be wet at times. It follows the Mararoa River downstream and hugs the shores of South Mavora Lake to the swing bridge at its outlet.
Kiwi Burn Loop Track 3 hours returnThis is a tramping track suitable for families. It is signposted off the Mavora Road, 1.5 km north from Hikuraki Station homestead. A short road leads to a swing bridge across the Mararoa River. From here it is an easy walk downstream to the confluence with the Kiwi Burn stream. A further 15 minutes walk up the Kiwi Burn is a trampers' hut, situated on a pleasant grassy flat.Flooding can occur during or after periods of heavy rain.
Mavora Lakes
5
1
Refer to location map on page 18Open river terraces nestled beneath Waikaia Forest and high country pastures give Piano Flat special appeal for family outings.
Ngahere Ara Track 30 minutes returnAn easy loop track starts beside the children's playground and is best walked in an anti-clockwise direction. This forest walk also features historic relics of goldmining activity. The natural surface can be muddy at times.
Piano Flat Loop Track Access to this track is signposted off the Ngahere Ara Track. It continues through beech forest and includes reminders of early saw-milling days.Note: This is a less well-defined tramping track that requires some experience and average physical fitness.
Waikaia River Track 4 hours returnCross the wire swing bridge from the main camping area and follow the Waikaia River upstream to a second swing bridge. Return downstream on the opposite bank and along the road.Note: This is a tramping track which can be muddy and rough in places.
1 hour return
Piano Flat2
6
Ngahere Ara Loop TrackPiano Flat Loop TrackWaikaia River Track
Since 1979, Balfour School children (with community help) have been responsible for tree planting, weeding and the development of a short walking track at this small reserve on the slopes of Glenure Hill. The nearest public toilets are in Balfour.
Loop Track 10 minutes returnThe formed loop track through a small area of regenerating forest is relatively steep in places but offers wonderful views over Eastern Southland. Commemorative tree plantings and plaques recognise community members who have assisted with the Reserve's development and management.
Glenure Allan Reserve3
7
To Mossburn
Dipton
Lumsden
Balfour
Glenure
Caroline
To Winton
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94
4
Waikaka Way Walkway4
8
Waikaka Way Walkway 45 minutes returnThis walking track starts at the northern end of Hamilton Park and follows the Waikaka River exiting into Toronto Street. There is parking available at both ends and public conveniences at Hamilton Park. There are other loop options for short walks off this track, in and around Hamilton Park, which is a large sports ground covering 20 hectares. The Waikaka Way is relatively flat and follows the contour of the riverbank. It is a picturesque little walk of 1.3 km one way, side loop walks of up to 3 km's with access opportunities for fishermen and lovely rural views of the eastern hills.
EastGore
Track
HamiltonPark
Streets
Wai
kaka
River
Dolamore Track 1 hour returnA well-formed, gravel surfaced loop walk starts from the Dolamore Park picnic area, crosses Waimumu Stream and climbs gradually towards a ridge. A signposted side walk to a viewpoint adds approximately 30 minutes to the total walk time. A boardwalk section at the start of the track is accessible to wheelchairs. Croydon Bush offers a glimpse of the forest, grassland and shrub communities that once characterised much of Southland.
Fantail Ridge Track 40 minutes return (via Sequoia Track) The track is signposted from the Dolamore Park car park. It provides easy walking through both exotic and regenerating native forest, and offers magnificent views of Southland. Return via the Sequoia Track or, for a longer walk, follow the Whisky Creek Track back to Dolamore Park.
Surrounded by farmland, Croydon Bush offers a glimpse of the forest, grassland and shrub communities that once characterised much of Southland. Tracks through this bush take in native podocarp (pine) forest, including matai, rimu and kahikatea. Crimson rata flowers are a summertime feature.
Croydon Bush & Dolamore ParkScenic Reserves
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9
94
Gore
Waimumu
Charlton
CroydonOtamita
Mandeville
McNab
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(Part only)
Whisky Creek Track 2 hours returnThe track is signposted off the boardwalk section of the Dolamore Track and follows a ridge to waterfalls. This track includes some steeper sections and muddy patches. A side track to Poppelwells Lookout is well worthwhile for spectacular views over the Southland Plains (add 30 – 45 minutes to the total time). The loop is completed via a well-formed grass track from a car park and shelter off Domain Road and returning to Dolamore Park.
Sequoia Track40 minutes returnUse the Fantail Ridge Track access to this track, which begins at the Sequoia Plantation in Dolamore Park. A link with the Wh i sky C reek Track provides a variety of return options.
Note: A number of other tramping tracks and routes start within Croydon Bush and are maintained by the Hokonui Tramping Club.
Croydon Bush & Dolamore ParkScenic Reserves continued
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Whisky Creek TrackDolamore TrackFantail Ridge TrackSequoia Track
Dolamore Park
Croydon BushScenic Reserve
PoppelwellsLookout
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A forestry road provides access to this attractive remnant of native forest, characterised by matai and kahikatea. A sheltered forest clearing provides a pleasant setting for picnics.
Forks Flat Track 1 hour returnFrom the picnic area, cross the bridge and follow a well- formed walking track along the banks of Dunsdale Stream past a waterfall to Forks Flat. The section of track to the waterfall is accessible to wheelchairs. Return either the same way, or over a bridge and down the other side of the stream (on a track which is unsuitable for wheelchairs).
Dunsdale Reserve6
Hedgehope
Winton
Glencoe
Browns
TussockCreek
Lochiel
To Mataura
To Invercargill
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96
6
7
(Part only)
(Max 2 nights)
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Refer to location map on page 11Forest Hill is a unique reserve, representing the type of native forest community once found on limestone outcrops throughout the Southland Plains. Totara, matai, rimu and kahikatea rise above a canopy of hardwood trees – home for large numbers of native and introduced birds. Track entrances are clearly signposted from both Tussock Creek and Forest Hill picnic areas.
Derek Turnbull Track 2 hours one wayThis gravel surfaced track links the picnic areas at either end of the reserve. The gradient from the Tussock Creek end is easier.
Loop Track 1 hour returnForest Hill picnic area is the start of a loop walk which features a small cave called Weta Cave.
Forest Hill Scenic Reserve7
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Forest HillPicnic Area
Tussock CkPicnic Area
Cave
(Tussock Creek only)
Known locally as Kamahi Reserve, this island of forest surrounded by farmland is an excellent place to encounter all five examples of native podocarp trees: rimu, miro, matai, kahikatea and totara.
The Reserve offers two easy walks:Short Loop Track 15 minutes returnLong Loop Track 30 minutes return
Like Edendale Scenic Reserve, Seaward Downs is another small pocket of native forest within easy reach of Invercargill. Despite having been logged, there are good examples of podocarp forest trees, which are favoured by New Zealand pigeon/kereru.
Loop Track 40 minutes returnThe forest walk begins and ends at the picnic area. The track may be muddy in places after wet weather.
Kamahi/Edendale Scenic Reserve
Seaward Downs Scenic Reserve
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9
D
To
1
1
Wyndham
Edendale
MenziesFerry
Morton Mains
Kamahi
acre SeawardDowns
To Gore
Invercargill
8
9
Woodlands
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Situated adjacent to Borland Lodge, on the edge of Fiordland National Park, this interpretation trail uses a self-guided walk card to look at the beech forest community. It includes some of the best mistletoe/pikiraki plants in Southland.
Loop Track 40 minutes returnAn easy walk which is wheelchair accessible as far as the swing bridge.
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Borland Nature Walk11
(Part only)
11
99Blackmount
Monowai
To Te Anau
To Clifden
To Lake Monowai
Borland Lodge
Kingswood Bush Scenic Reserve Woodlands
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Kingswood Bush Track Refer to map pg 13The Kingswood Bush Track is located east of Woodlands School on the Woodlands Morton Mains Road. This easy walk winds through mixed podocarp forest and is abundant with flora and fauna.
20 minutes return
Refer to location map on page 17Tuatapere Domain and the Scenic Reserve are interlinked by a network of walking tracks through a remnant of the lowland beech and podocarp forest, which once covered much of the Waiau Valley. The main entrance is signposted west of the Waiau River bridge, from Half Mile Road.
Loop Track 35 minutes returnThere are several access points to this walking track, which has a gravel surface and is suitable for wheelchairs. A particular feature is a large totara that towers over surrounding trees.
The Park and Arboretum contain a large area of mature, exotic trees, some of which are rare or uncommon species. The diversity of trees provides delightful autumn colours and an attractive backdrop to the picnic area.
Arboretum Walk 20 minutes returnAn easy walk through t h e i m p r e s s i v e variety of exotic trees is gradually being r e s t o r e d t o i t s original state. Tracks are on natural surfaces and not always well-formed.
Tuatapere Scenic Reserve
Alex McKenzie Park & Arboretum
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13
OtautauIsla Bank
Fairfax
To Mossburn
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15
Roundhill district at the southern end of the Longwood range, west of Colac Bay is an historic gold field dating back to the early 1870s. Chinese and subsequently Europeans sluiced for the fine alluvial gold.
Long Hilly Track 2 ¼ hours returnLong Hilly Track is a gravelled loop track traversing a small section of the Roundhill goldfield. It is managed by Te Araroa Southland Trust as part of the Te Araroa Trail - A walking track from Cape Reinga to Bluff. Visitors pass various historic gold sluicing features along the babbling California Creek in regenerating native bush. Leaving the car park on Roundhill Road (one k i l omet re o f f S ta te Highway 99) the track also passes through an historic logging tramline cutting.
Roundhill14
16
To Invercargill
To Tuatapere Roundhill Road
99
Colac Bay
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LONGWOOD RANGE
FIORDLANDNATIONAL
PARK
TAKITIMUMOUNTAINS
HOKONUI HILLS
CATLINS FOREST
WaikawaNightcaps
Tokanui1
Gore
Te AnauMossburn
Lumsden
Balfour
Riversdale
Waikaia
Owaka
WyndhamEdendale
Seaward DownsDacre
MatauraTe Tipua
HedgehopeWinton
Dipton
Ohai
Manapouri
Monowai
Clifden
Tuatapere
OrepukiColac Bay
iverton
Otautau
INVERCARGILLOtatara
Bluff
Fortrose
OtaraSlope Point
Porpoise Bay
Curio Bay
Te Waewae Bay
Waimumu
TussockCreek
MavoraLakes
LakeMonowai
LakeTe Anau
LakeHauroko
6
6
1
1
99
99
94
94
96
Balclutha
Clinton
1
96
Tapanui
90
LakeManapouri
Map legendMain touring route
Minor road sealed
M
Southern Scenic Route
inor road unsealed
State Highways
Track number
94
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Southland sshort walks
location map of
R
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Refer to location map on page 17The reserve is located on Howells Hill overlooking the township of Riverton/Aparima. Tracks provide panoramic views of Foveaux Strait and features abundant birdlife. This area includes wahi tapu/treasured places for Maori and visitors are asked to respect this.
Hilltop Lookout Track 20 minutes returnA short uphill walk on a gravel track is rewarded by outstanding panoramic views.
M o r e s L o o k o u t Track45 minutes returnAn easy walk through native forest emerges at a tree-top lookout platform, which offers bird's eye views of the southern coastline and forest below.
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Mores Scenic Reserve - Riverton15
Mores Coastal Loop TrackMores Lookout TrackHilltop LookoutKings Track
Kings Track 20 minutes returnThis easy walking track follows a route used by early settlers. It emerges from the bush to offer wonderful views over Riverton/Aparima and the Southland Plains.
Mores Coastal Loop Track 2 hours returnThe track emerges from coastal forest and follows marker posts along the beaches and rocky outcrops of the southern coastline. The track is best walked in an anti-clockwise direction from the car park, returning via Kings Track. It is maintained to tramping track standard and may be muddy in places with some steep sections.
Refer to location map on page 18
Walkway Up to 2 hoursThis easy coastal walk follows a gravel track between Riverton Rocks and the Jacobs River Bridge. The length of the walk can be adjusted to suit individual needs with start/finish points at Bay Road, Towack Street, Taramea Bay Road and Rocks Highway.
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Taramea Bay Walkway - Riverton16
Mores Scenic Reserve - Riverton Continued
15
Sandy Point Domain is an outstanding natural playground with
Sandy Point's ancient sand dune forest of wind sculptured totara and matai is rare and nationally important. The native and plantation forests, estuarine mudflats and salt marshes, which fringe the Oreti River, are home to prolific plant and animal life.
a 13km network of well-formed walking tracks making it easy to explore Sandy Point on foot.
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Sandy Point Domain17
Daffodil
Bay
Noki
KaikBeach
Whalers
Bay
SilverLagoon
Otatara
KilmockBush
ToAirport,
Invercargill
Hatch’s
Hill
FosbenderPark
SANDY POINT TRACKS
McShanes Track
Kilmock Bush
Petrie’s Track
Roundtree Track
Rover Track
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17
Daffodil Bay Loop Track
Kilmock Bush 30 minutes returnThis gently undulating loop track starts from Fosbender Park and includes some stepped sections. It passes through a carpet of bush lily/astelia and hound's tongue fern/kowaowao, beneath gnarled totara trees.
Petrie's Track 50 minutes returnTake the coastal Rover Track (30 minutes one way) to Daffodil Bay and return via the open pine forest of Petries Track (20 minutes one way). The Rover Track passes a lookout (10 minutes one way) and hugs the shoreline through regenerating native vegetation. Tracks start from the car park at the eastern end of McLennans Flat.
Rover Track/
Sandy Point Domain Continued17
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Daffodil Bay Loop Track 90 minutes returnThis track combines a totara – matai forest with good estuary views. From the Daffodil Bay picnic area take the coastal route to Hatches Hill Lookout (30 minutes) with a side trip to Noki Kaik Beach. Return to Daffodil Bay via the inland route (60 minutes).
Silver Lagoon Track 45 minutes returnThe Silver Lagoon is the hidden gem of Sandy Point providing important wildlife habitat for birds and other fauna. The track starts opposite the settlement at Coopers Creek and passes through an attractive remnant of native forest opening out to a forestry fire break. The track to Silver Lagoon follows McShanes Track and returns the same way.
Sandy Point Domain Continued17
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Invercargill Estuary Walkway18
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Invercargill Estuary Walkway 1 hour returnTake a stroll around the Pleasure Bay lagoon and discover an area rich in ecology and history. Allow at least an hour to walk the 4.7km walking and cycling loop track. A shorter walk to an elevated viewpoint (30 minutes return) will provide views over the estuary and lagoon.
Caution: Parts of the walkway may be under water in periods of extreme weather.
Invercargill Estuary
PleasureBayLagoon
To B
luff
Clyd
e S
t
Bond S
t
Stead StWharf
Tweed StTo Oreti Beach
N
S
WE
Invercargill Parks & Gardens19
Queens ParkLocation: Entry from Gala Street, Queens Drive, Herbert Street or Victoria Avenue.Description: Queens Park is spread over 81 hectares and includes the Southland Museum & Art Gallery, Invercargill i-SITE, an 18 hole golf course, children's playground and a bird aviary. Coronation Avenue is the main path through the park with many walkways leading off to various gardens. A 4km fitness trail winds its way around the park with 20 exercise stations.
Otepuni GardensLocation: Follows Otepuni Stream between Forth Street and Tyne Street from Nith Street to Elles Road.Description: Otepuni Gardens' winding pathways along the banks of the Otepuni Stream provide a refreshing break from the city centre. The gardens cover 9.4 hectares and encompass four city blocks.
Anderson ParkLocation: McIvor RoadDescription: Anderson Park Art Gallery was gifted to the city by Sir Robert Anderson and his wife. The home houses a splendid collection of New Zealand art. Outside a well- defined walking track leads visitors through native bush. Walkers on the track can spot kahikatea, rimu, thin-barked totara, matai, miro and the principal canopy tree, the pokaka. Also popular is the monkey puzzle tree, planted in the grounds more than 80 years ago.
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Those approaching from the north will find the reserve is signposted left off SH1 immediately before the Greenpoint Cemetery. The nearest public toilets are in Bluff.
Walking track30 minutes returnA well-graded, gravel track and boardwalk follow the shoreline to Greenpoint, providing panoramic views across Bluff Harbour and highlighting features of natural and historic interest that include a ship graveyard.
Note: The railway track is in regular use. Stop, look and l i s t e n b e f o r e crossing.
Greenpoint Reserve20
26
Greenhills
Bluff
Bluff Harbour
Tiwai Pt
Stirling Pt
Lookout Pt
New RiverEstuary
ToInvercargill
1
20
Original native forest, wind-battered coast and shrub- covered hillsides are some of the delights of Bluff Hill/ Motupòhue. Spectacular views over Foveaux Strait and the Southland Plains are the reward from the top of Bluff Hill. Tracks are well marked and range from easy gradients to steep climbs. Car parking and access from Stirling Point, Gunpit Road and the top of Bluff Hill. Toilets are available at Stirling Point.
Foveaux Walkway 25 minutes one wayThe coastal track from Stirling Point to Lookout Point has an easy grade and well-compacted surface providing good views across Foveaux Strait.
Tòpuni Track45 minutes uphill one wayA short track from Stirling Point climbs past the WWII gun emplacement to meet the Tòpuni Track, Gunpit Road access and Glory Track. The Tòpuni Track continues up an undulating path (steep in parts) through regenerating forest and coastal shrub lands to the summit of Bluff Hill.
Bluff Hill/Motupohue21
27
Glory Track 30 minutes one wayThe Glory Track offers an alternative return track though the quiet shelter of native forest.
Millennium Track45 minutes uphill one way A steep track from Lookout Point to the summit of Bluff Hill though the wind-shorn shrubland is rewarded by superb views across Foveaux Strait to Stewart Island/Rakiura.
Ocean Beach Track 90 minutes one wayThe coastal track becomes a marked route across private farmland. Fur Seals and Southern Right Whales may visit the coast in winter.
Bluff Hill/Motupohue Continued21
28
StirlingPoint
Foveaux WalkwayMillennium TrackTopuni TrackGOcean Beach
lory Track
Bluff Hill
1
Lookout Point
Waituna Viewing Shelter22
29
Waituna Viewing Shelter Location: Waghorn Road (off Southern Scenic Route, 20km south-east of Invercargill)This easy walk starts at the carpark at the end of Waghorn Road and leads to a viewing shelter overlooking Waituna Lagoon. It is suitable for people of all abilities, including wheelchairs. Interpretation is provided in the viewing shelter.
WaitunaViewing Shelter
Gorge Road
KapukaMokotua
Kapuka South
Southern Scenic Route
To Catlins
To Invercargill
22
Refer to location map on page 31
Waipapa Point is the site of New Zealand's worst civilian shipwreck, which happened in 1881 when SS Tararua ran aground on Waipapa Reef. Despite desperate rescue attempts, 131 of the 151 passengers and crew died. The lighthouse, built after the catastrophe in 1884, is a poignant reminder of the tragedy.
Tararua Acre Cemetery 15 minutes returnFoot access to Tararua Acre, where many of the shipwreck victims were buried, is signposted from the Waipapa Point Lighthouse Road. Access to the cemetery is across private property, which is closed during lambing (1 September to 1 November).
Waipapa Point walksThere are no formed tracks but the beach and coastline to either side of the lighthouse offer delightful opportunities for short walks.
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Waipapa Point23
Waipohatu's grassy clearings are a legacy from timber milling activities in the surrounding Waikawa Forest. A gravel track opposite the toilets in the main car park leads to an old Fordson Tractor log hauler.
Loop Track1 hour returnA well-surfaced t r a c k p a s s e s beneath a section of unmilled coastal f o re s t t ha t i s notable for its variety of ferns. Return the same way or along the road.
31
Waipohatu Recreation Area24
Tokanui
Otara
Haldane
Slope Pt
Quarry Hills
Waikawa
Niagara
ProgressValley
Porpoise Bay
Haldane Bay
Curio Bay
Slope Pt
Waipapa Pt
To FortroseInvercargill
To Owaka
23
24
25
27
26
Waipohatu Waterfall Track 3 hours return
This walk is maintained by the Toi Tois Lions Club and South Catlins Promotions. It leads in to two waterfalls and has a return or loop option. Note: This is a less well-defined tramping track which can be muddy in places. It requires two small river crossings, some
experience and average physical fitness is required.
32
Refer to location map on page 31
The most southerly point on the South Island, Slope Point is 7 kilometres further south than Bluff. This is a privately maintained walk across farmland. Access is closed during the lambing season (1 Sept to 1 Nov).
Slope Point walk 20 minutes returnFollow marker posts across windswept pastures to Slope Point. From here, on a clear day, the entire length of Stewart Island/Rakiura is visible, along with Bluff and Tiwai Point Aluminium Smelter.
Note: The cliff tops are dangerous; take extra care.
Slope Point25
Refer to location map on page 31
20 minutes return
Waikawa was a busy port in the 1880s and early 1900s. Other early industries included sawmilling, whaling, goldmining, stone quarrying, flax milling, pastoral runholding and dairy farming. Waikawa is now a small fishing village and a peaceful retreat for permanent residents and owners of holiday homes, tourist accommodation and attractions.Further information on the walks can be obtained from the Waikawa Museum.
The Old Coach Road 20 minutes returnThis is a walk across the estuary, only possible at low tide and starting from the right side of the jetty. The actual road was formed in the 1880s so that the coach could run between Waikawa and Fortrose. Evidence can still be seen of the stone bridges over the creeks and the road raised above the sand.
George Aitken Walk A short forest walk named in memory of a well-loved local, George Aitken. The walk begins behind the Waikawa Hall. You will find some helpful labels naming the native trees and peaceful views of the estuary.
Waikawa26
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Curio Bay27
Refer to location map on page 31
It is not surprising that Curio Bay and adjacent Porpoise Bay are among Southland's most popular destinations. Few places in the world offer such a wealth of scenic, wildlife and recreational interest that is concentrated into one small area.
Petrified Forest Walk 10 minutes returnPetrified stumps, fallen trees and fern imprints from a 180 million year old fossil forest have become exposed on the tidal rock platform. This internationally important site is accessible at low tide, although a viewing platform with interpretation panels provides the best vantage point. This is an irreplaceable treasure and the rocks are strictly protected. Please leave it undisturbed for others to enjoy.
(Part only)
34
viewingwildlife
Visitors to and may be lucky enough to view wildlife. Please note the following.
Curio Bay Waipapa Point
Hector's Dolphin/PapakanuaDuring summer and autumn visitors can sometimes see Hector's dolphin/papkanua playing in the surf. When swimming or kayaking do not approach dolphins - they will come to you if they want to. Always enter the water at least 50 metres away from any dolphin. They have sensitive skins so do not touch them.
Yellow-eyed penguins/HoihoLucky visitors may see yellow-eyed penguins/hoiho that nest around Curio Bay. They are very timid birds and will either leave the area or 'freeze' at the sight of people. Please give them space. Do not chase or follow them. Do not get between them and their destination.
New Zealand Sea lions/Rapoka Sea lions are often found resting amongst the dunes and coastal tussock grasses. Dogs and people are seen as a threat by sea lions particularly if their escape route to the sea appears to be blocked. For safety reasons please keep at least 30 metres away from them.
Stewart Island/Rakiura and Rakiura National ParkHalfmoon Bay is the hub for a variety of short walks, ranging from 15 minutes to several hours. Details are available in the brochure Day Walks – Stewart Island or from the Rakiura National Park Visitor Centre.
Fiordland National ParkWhile Fiordland is best known for its more challenging tracks, it also offers a range of short walks, particularly around Te Anau and the Milford Road World Heritage Highway (SH 94). Details are available in the brochure Fiordland National Park Day Walks or from the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre.
further afieldwalks
35
This booklet has been produced by Venture Southland in partnership with Southland District Council, Department of Conservation, Invercargill City Council and Gore District Council. In many cases, more detailed track information is available on request from those authorities or from visitor information centres. The logo against each track description identifies the authority responsible for its management.
Venture Southland143 Spey StreetPO Box 1306InvercargillPh: 03 211 1400E-mail: [email protected]: www.southlandnz.com
Southland District Council15 Forth StreetPO Box 903, InvercargillPh: 0800 732 732E-mail: [email protected]: www.southlanddc.govt.nz
Department of Conservation 7th floor, 33 Don StreetPO Box 743, InvercargillPh: 03 211 2400Website: www.doc.govt.nz
Parks DivisionInvercargill City CouncilQueen's ParkPrivate Bag 90104InvercargillPh: 03 219 9070Email: [email protected]: www.icc.govt.nz
Gore District Council29 Civic AvenuePO Box 8, GorePh: 03 209 0330E-mail: [email protected]: www.goredc.govt.nz
for more information
DOC HOTline
0800 362 468Report any safety hazards orconserv atio n emerg encie sFor fire and search and rescue call 111
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DisclaimerThe contents of this publication are intended as a guide only. While every attempt has been made to ensure the information is correct at the time of printing, Venture Southland, Department of Conservation, Southland District Council, Gore District Council and Invercargill City Council disclaim liability to any entity for loss, cost or damage whatsoever arising out of or connected with the contents of this booklet. All material is subject to copyright.
