Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
the
Southern Scenic Route
brochure and the purple
Catlins
brochure and map, which de-
tail every dot. The yellow heritage-trail pamphlet is also worth hunting down.
Flora & Fauna
The Catlins is a wonderful place for independent wildlife-watching. Fur seals and sea
lions laze along the coast, while in spring migratory southern right whales are occasion-
ally spotted. Dolphins are also frequent visitors.
Unlike much of Southland, tall kahikatea, totara and rimu forests still exist in the Cat-
lins. Prolific birdlife includes the wonderfully noisy tui, and you'll also see kereru (NZ
pigeons). Among many other birds are the endangered yellow-eyed penguin and the rare
mohua (yellowhead).
Activities
Catlins Wildlife Trackers
WILDLIFE TOUR
( 03-415 8613, 0800 228 5467;
www.catlins-ecotours.co.nz
)
Based near Papatowai and
running since 1990, Catlins Wildlife Trackers offers customised guided walks and tours
with a focus on ecology. If you want to see the beloved mohua, penguins, sea lions or
other wildlife, Mary and Fergus will track them down for you. Their fully guided three-
night/two-day package costs $800, including all food, accommodation and transport.
Catlins River-Wisp Loop Track
TRAMPING
(
www.doc.govt.nz
)
Opened in 2013, this 24km loop comprises two 12km sections: the low-
level, well-formed Catlins River Walk (five to six hours), and the Wisp Walk (four to five
hours), a higher-altitude tramp with a side trip to Rocky Knoll boasting great views and
subalpine vegetation. The routes can be walked in either direction as one long day, di-
vided over two days, or split into shorter sections accessed via various entry/exit points.
The main access is via Catlins Valley Road, south of Owaka.
Catlins Surf School
SURFING
( 03-246 8552;
www.catlins-surf.co.nz
)
Located in Porpoise Bay, the Catlins Surf School
runs 90-minute surfing lessons for $50. The occasional group of dolphin spectators is
free of charge. If you're already confident on the waves, hire a board and wetsuit (very
necessary) for three hours ($40). Owner Nick also offers tuition in stand-up paddleboard-
ing (two hours, $75).
