Tautuku Bay

Time: 15 min return

Getting there
Opposite the Outdoor Education Centre on the Southern Scenic Route

Tautuku is a spectacular, forest-fringed bay that sweeps round to an impressive headland. The walk to the bay suits all ages.

Lake Wilkie

Lake Wilkie from the viewpoint

Time: 30 min return

Getting there
The carpark is just south of the Outdoor Recreation Centre

The walk features a variety of plant life. From podocarp forest at the track’s start to the impressive viewpoint – that can be accessed by wheelchair – to the plant communities around the lake. Good interpretation panels explain the lake’s formation and vegetation succession. When the rata is flower it’s an impressive and colourful place, with an active bird population.

Tautuku Estuary Boardwalk

Time: 30 min return

Getting there
Off the Southern Scenic Route near the Forest and Bird Society Lodge

The track is partly board-walked and also incorporates a section of the Old Coach Road. It starts in podocarp forest then leads out to the estuary flats. The vibrantly coloured jointed rush/oioi takes on an extra glow at sunrise and sunset. There is also a resident population of the shy but noisy fernbird.

Dogs are allowed on the Tautuku Nature Walk and Tautuku Boardwalk, but must be on a lead.

The Otago coast is frequented by sea lions, other marine mammals and vulnerable bird life. Please keep your dog on a leash at all times and safe from harm.

Related link

Catlins Coast field trip

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