The Catlins

WATERFALLS AND A WINDSWEPT COAST

Nugget Point, with its 150-year- old lighthouse, is the symbolic northern landmark of the Catlins. The 10-kilometre road from Kaka Point leading to the headland hugs golden sandy bays with ample stopping points and seats made of odds and ends. A spectacular 20-minute walk high above the water through wind-sculpted vegetation leads to the point, with its panoramic views over The Nuggets and the infinity of the Southern Ocean beyond. Nugget Point is home to fur seals and 40 species of sea birds that visit or reside here. Nearby, Roaring Bay has a viewing hide to spot the world’s rarest yellow- eyed penguin (hoiho) nesting in the coastal forest. The best time to view these shy and sensitive creatures is late afternoon when they return from the day feeding at sea. Visitors must stay off the beach after 3pm to not disturb the weary homeward waddlers.

PURAKAUNUI FALLS Instantly recognizable as one of the most photographed in the country, these falls have been reproduced in calendars, phone books and stamps for decades. This legacy, however, does not diminish their radiance and almost ethereal beauty when viewed for the first time in real life. Located 20 minutes from Owaka, Purakaunui Falls are accessible via a short 10-minute walk through thriving podocarp and beech forest. The enchanting quality of water cascading down a series of tiers is a spellbinding marvel of nature — the photos have always been impressive, but the real thing is even better.