Owaka

Owaka is a small, tranquil settlement nestled in the Catlins region of New Zealand's South Island, where the dense native bush meets the wild Pacific coastline. This unassuming town serves as a perfect base for exploring the rugged Catlins Forest Park and its stunning coastal scenery, including waterfalls, sea caves, and pristine beaches. With a friendly local pub and a handful of cafes, Owaka offers a genuine slice of rural Kiwi life.

Highlights & What to See

• Catlins Forest Park – Explore the lush podocarp forest on short walks to hidden waterfalls like McLean Falls and Purakaunui Falls, both easily accessed from Owaka.
• Nugget Point Lighthouse – A short drive south, this iconic lighthouse offers breathtaking views over the ocean and the rocky 'nuggets' where seals and seabirds gather.
• Owaka Museum – A small but fascinating museum that delves into the area's Maori and European history, as well as local wildlife.
• Surat Bay – A peaceful sandy beach where you can spot New Zealand sea lions lazing on the shore.
• Cathedral Caves – A spectacular set of sea caves accessible at low tide, with towering chambers carved by the ocean.
• Jack's Blowhole – A dramatic 55-metre-deep blowhole that erupts with seawater during rough weather, located on a scenic clifftop walk.

Suggested Time to Spend

Owaka itself can be explored in a few hours, but the surrounding Catlins region deserves at least two to three days to fully appreciate its natural wonders. Base yourself in Owaka for a relaxed pace: spend one day visiting the waterfalls and forest walks, and another day driving the coastal route to Nugget Point, Surat Bay, and the Cathedral Caves. If you're short on time, a single day trip from Dunedin or Invercargill is possible, but you'll only scratch the surface.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Catlins Forest Park – The heart of the Catlins, with countless walking tracks and scenic drives through ancient forest.
• Waikawa – A tiny coastal settlement near the mouth of the Waikawa River, known for its tranquil estuary and birdlife.
• Papatowai – A small village with a beautiful beach and the start of the popular Catlins River Walk.
• Curio Bay – Famous for its petrified forest and a breeding colony of yellow-eyed penguins and Hector's dolphins.
• Slope Point – The southernmost point of the South Island, with stunning coastal views and a stark, windswept landscape.

Please check official sources for current details.