Enjoy dramatic coastal views from the Tokatā Lighthouse and spot seals, penguins and other seabirds on these short walks.
Awakiki Track
How long will it take? This is a 40-minute return walk.
Awakiki Bush Scenic Reserve is an outstanding example of lowland tōtara forest. There is foot access from the road through neighbouring farmland to the loop track through the reserve.
To get to the starting point, turn right (signposted) off the Ōwaka Highway, south of Telford Polytechnic, onto Awakiki Road.
Kākā Point Bush Walk
How long will it take? This is a 30-minute return loop walk.
This is an easy bush walk in the Kākā Point Scenic Reserve that gives the impression that it is very remote, yet almost within the township of Kākā Point.
There are two signposted entrance/exit points, both off Marine Terrace. Another access track links the loop track off Rata Street.
Nugget Point Tokatā
How long will it take? This is a 10-20-minute return walk.
The well-maintained pathway suits all ages and leads to a viewing platform beside the Tokatā Lighthouse – great seascapes.
The area is rich in wildlife; several seabird species nest on the rock stacks. New Zealand fur seals/kekeno also breed here, and other marine mammal species can sometimes be seen.
In summer the ocean can be covered in large flocks of sooty shearwater/tītī. This is a treasured site for Kai Tahu.
To get there, carry on along the coast road from Kākā Point to the top Kaimataitai car park. Toilets, a viewing site and a picnic area are all nearby.
View from Nugget Point Lighthouse. © itravelNZ Creative Commons
Roaring Bay
How long will it take? This is a 20-minute return walk.
Yellow-eyed penguins/hoiho can be viewed from the hide when they come ashore in the late afternoon. To avoid disturbing these endangered penguins, do not go down to the beach after 3pm. Sea lions/rāpoka can also sometimes be seen on the beach.
The car park is 800m before the main car park, on the same road.
