What to see and do
West Coast NZ unforgettable short walk for all fitness levels, seals, expansive views of wild west coast beach and a lighthouse nearby Westport.
Cape Foulwind has one of New Zealand’s best short walks as it embraces spectacular coastal scenery, wildlife, a lighthouse and weka (bird) sightings. A one hour loop walk ensures you get to soak up the scenery on the return and stop to observe seals you missed before.
Tauranga Bay seal colony short boardwalk
Tauranga Bay carpark to seal colony viewpoint. This is wheelchair accessible with spectacular views of the coast and seal colony. At first the seals are indistinguishable from the rocks. Wait a while, let your eyes adjust to the shades of the rocks and the seals will pop into your line of sight. Look to the waterline to observe seals as they emerge from the sea onto the rocks.
- Time: 15 min
- Distance: 500 m
- Toilets: Car park
Cape Foulwind short walk takes you from Tauranga Bay along a rocky headland to a viewpoint overlooking a New Zealand fur seal breeding colony. Panels along the track tell stories of Māori history, sea voyages and early explorers.
Seal colony viewpoint to Cape Foulwind lighthouse walk
This is an extension of the short boardwalk to the lighthouse.
- Time: 1 hr
- Distance: 2.9 km
From the seal colony, a longer walking track leads to Cape Foulwind lighthouse.
Return the same way or arrange transport from Cape Foulwind car park.
TIP
Check out Tauranga Bay and observe hardy locals (in wetsuits) surfing. The wide sweeping sea with its driftwood piles, the grey iron tinted sand and rolling surf is memorizing.
NOTE
For details about the area check here Cape Foulwind Walkway: Cape Foulwind area, West Coast region. Ensure you take: Waterproof and windproof jacket, hat and gloves
For more information about walking tracks check out West Coast walks and hikes, places to go and lace up the hiking boots.
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