Cape Foulwind

Despite its blustery name, Cape Foulwind is a wild and beautiful headland on the West Coast, famous for its dramatic coastal scenery, a thriving fur seal colony, and the historic Cape Foulwind Lighthouse. The name was bestowed by Captain Cook, who found the wind here less than agreeable, but modern visitors will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Tasman Sea and the rugged coastline.

Highlights & What to See

• Cape Foulwind Walkway: An easy 3.4 km return track that winds along the clifftops, offering spectacular ocean views and access to the seal colony. Best walked at low tide.
• Fur Seal Colony: A large colony of New Zealand fur seals (kekeno) can be seen basking on the rocks or playing in the surf. Bring binoculars for a closer look.
• Cape Foulwind Lighthouse: The historic lighthouse, built in 1926, stands as a sentinel on the cape. The surrounding area is a great spot for whale watching (seasonal) and storm photography.
• Tauranga Bay Beach: A beautiful sandy beach just south of the cape, perfect for a stroll or a picnic, but beware of strong rips – swimming is not advised.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow 1–2 hours to walk the Cape Foulwind Walkway and enjoy the seal colony. If you're keen on photography or whale watching, budget an extra hour. The site is easily combined with a visit to the nearby town of Westport or a stop on the drive between Greymouth and Karamea.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Westport: The nearest town, with cafes, pubs, and the Coaltown Museum, which tells the story of the region's mining history.
• Pancake Rocks & Blowholes (Punakaiki): About an hour's drive south, these iconic limestone formations are a must-see.
• Karamea: Gateway to the Heaphy Track and the Oparara Basin Arches, about 90 minutes north.
• Charleston: A small historic town with glowworm caves and whitebait fishing spots.

Please check official sources for current details.