Surat Bay Beach Walk
Located in Catlins coastal area in the Otago region
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Introduction
This short walk runs parallel to Surat Bay Beach and goes through sand dunes. It's the only access to Surat Beach during high tide.500 m return via same track
Dog access
Cross the bridge over a small creek and follow the poled route to pass through the dunes. In most conditions, you may be able to see New Zealand sea lions interacting or sleeping on the beach.
The track is 5.6 km from Owaka. From Owaka, turn off Pounawea Road onto Newhaven Road and turn right for the carpark. The track starts at the end of Surat Bay Road in Newhaven.
Track entrance details
Location: GPS coordinates -46.473518, 169.716341
Two toilets are available near the start of the track over the bridge. These toilets are maintained by Clutha District Council.
The Catlins coast is frequented by sea lions, other marine mammals and vulnerable birdlife. New Zealand sea lions come ashore to rest and socialise here.
New Zealand sea lion/pakake/whakahao information.
You may also see some of our native sea and shorebirds nesting here like the variable oystercatcher/tōrea.
Formerly known as Forsyth’s Bay, the bay is now named after the sailing ship “Surat” which became shipwrecked here on New Years Day in 1874. The ship was carrying emigrants and cargo from England to Dunedin, all passengers and crew survived.
Contacts
| Murihiku / Invercargill Office | |
| Phone: | +64 3 211 2400 |
| Fax: | +64 4 471 1117 |
| Email: | invercargill@doc.govt.nz |
| Address: |
7th Floor CUE on Don 33 Don Street Invercargill 9810 |
| Postal Address: |
PO Box 743 Invercargill 9840 |
| Full office details | |