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Curio Bay/Porpoise Bay

Southland region

Hector's dolphin leaping, Porpoise Bay. Photo: Erin Green.

Hector's dolphin leaping, Porpoise Bay

Southland region.

Hector's dolphins/papakanua, marine wildlife and the fossilised remains of an ancient forest can be seen at Curio and Porpoise bays.

Location

Curio Bay and Porpoise Bay are situated on the Catlins coast, 7 km south of Waikawa.

Features

Wildlife, including Hector's dolphins, yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals and sea lions, can be found at Curio and Porpoise bays. The area also contains the fossilised remains of an ancient forest and has an interesting history.

Activities at Curio Bay/Porpoise Bay

You can view the wildlife in the area and explore the fossil forest at low tide. Porpoise Bay with its beautiful sandy beach is popular for swimming and surfing.

Places to stay

There is no DOC accommodation in the area, but there is a sheltered campsite situated on South Head, the headland separating Curio Bay from Porpoise Bay.

Plan & prepare

Find out how to get there and view a map of the area. Do not feed or go near dolphins, keep dogs clear of wildlife and be careful of approaching seals and sea lions too closely.

Highlights:

Catlins Highway

The Catlins Highway section of the Southern Scenic Route takes in the Catlins coastline and large tracts of native forest. Attractions include beaches, waterfalls and caves, wildlife viewing and the fossil forest at Curio Bay.

Hector's dolphin

One of the smallest marine dolphins in the world, Hector's dolphins grow no more than 1.5 m in length.

Camping with nature video

Watch this video to find out where you can sleep-over with your locals! The Catlins in Southland is teeming with native life, and you can stay at Curio Bay campground.

Guides and commercial tourism providers

Find businesses that are DOC-approved to provide activities and services in Curio Bay/Porpoise Bay.

Find out more

Publications

Curio Bay/Porpoise Bay brochure (PDF, 494K)

Southern Scenic Route brochure (PDF, 445K)

Weather

Maps

New Zealand topographic maps are available from DOC Visitor Centres

Learn more

Stop the spread of didymo

Check, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.

Have your say on conservation in your community

Safety

Follow the Outdoor Safety Code:
1. Plan your trip
2. Tell someone
3. Be aware of the weather
4. Know your limits
5. Take sufficient supplies

Contacts

Murihiku Area Office
Phone:	+64 3 211 2400

Email:
Full office details