Dolamore Loop Track

Loop

While the entire walk is a highlight in itself, there are several standout features that make the Dolamore Loop Track a must-do:

Poppelwell’s Lookout About halfway through the loop, you will come across a signposted turn-off for Poppelwell’s Lookout. Don’t be tempted to skip this! A short, slightly steeper climb rewards you with the best views in the district. On a clear day, the Southland Plains unfold beneath you in a patchwork of vibrant greens. If the weather is particularly kind, you can see all the way to the rugged silhouette of Bluff Hill and the distant, mysterious outlines of Stewart Island (Rakiura) across the Foveaux Strait. It is the perfect spot for a photo and a quick drink of water.

The Hanging Moss Gardens Keep an eye out for the Weymouthia moss. This specific moss thrives here, creating long, drooping curtains that hang from the native fuchsia and totara trees. When the sun hits these curtains, the entire forest seems to glow with a sublime, ethereal light. It’s a dream for amateur photographers and nature lovers alike.

The Nocturnal Glow Worms If you happen to be staying overnight at the Dolamore Park campground, the loop track transforms after dark. Grab a torch (but remember to point it at the ground!) and head back onto the trail. In the damp embankments near the stream and the shaded cuttings of the track, hundreds of glow worms create a tiny, subterranean galaxy. It’s a magical experience that kids, in particular, will never forget.

Spring Rhododendrons If your visit falls during spring (September to November), the entrance to the track and the surrounding parkland are transformed by over 500 mature rhododendrons. The burst of pinks, reds, and purples against the deep green of the native bush is a spectacular sight.

Getting There

Dolamore Park is located approximately 11 kilometres west of Gore. To get there, head out of Gore on Reaby Road. The drive is scenic and takes about 15 minutes, winding through the productive farmland that Southland is famous for.

Once you arrive at the park, follow the signs to the northern end. There is ample parking at the northern track start, which is clearly marked. The park is very well-maintained, and you’ll find the trailhead easily near the picnic areas.

For those travelling in campervans or looking to make a weekend of it, the park offers extensive camping facilities. There are powered sites, electric BBQs for a post-walk sausage sizzle, a clean kitchen, and hot showers. It’s one of the most convenient and picturesque places to stay in the region.

Wildlife Spotting

The Dolamore Loop is a sanctuary for native birdlife. Because the forest is a remnant of ancient bush, it provides a vital habitat for many species that have disappeared from the surrounding plains.

• New Zealand Fantail (Pīwakawaka): These friendly little birds are almost guaranteed to join you. They often follow hikers to snack on the insects stirred up by your footsteps.
• Tui and Bellbird (Korimako): Listen for the complex, melodic chiming and coughing sounds of the Tui and the clear, bell-like notes of the Bellbird. They are common year-round, especially when the native trees are in flower.
• Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon): Look up if you hear a heavy "whoosh-whoosh" sound of wings. These large, iridescent green and white pigeons are often seen perched precariously on thin branches gorging on berries.
• Grey Warbler (Riroriro): More often heard than seen, their long, trilling song is a staple of the New Zealand bush.

Tip: The best time for bird watching is early morning or late afternoon when the "dawn chorus" or "evening song" is at its peak. Bring a pair of binoculars if you have them, as the canopy can be quite dense.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Dolamore Loop Track is truly a walk for all seasons, but each brings its own flavour:

• Spring: The best time for flower lovers. The rhododendrons are in full bloom, and the forest is alive with the sound of nesting birds.
• Summer: The thick canopy provides a wonderful natural air-conditioning, making it a cool escape from the Southland sun.
• Autumn: The air is crisp and clear, often providing the best visibility from Poppelwell’s Lookout.
• Winter: Southland winters can be frosty, but the track remains accessible. A heavy frost on the ferns and mosses can look stunning, though you should watch for slippery patches on the boardwalk.

• Start Time: Mid-morning is great for general views, but sunset is spectacular if you want to see the plains bathed in golden light before the glow worms come out.
• What to Wear: Standard walking shoes or sneakers are perfectly fine for this track. Even though it's an "easy" walk, Southland weather can change quickly, so always carry a light waterproof jacket.
• Sun & Bug Protection: Even under the canopy, the NZ sun is strong—apply sunscreen. You might also encounter a few sandflies near the stream, so repellent is a good idea.
• Water: While the walk is short, the climb to the lookout can be thirsty work. Bring a bottle of water.

Local & Regional Context

The area surrounding Gore and the Hokonui Hills (which Dolamore Park sits on the edge of) has a rich and colourful history. For Māori, the region was an important source of food and seasonal transit. The name Waimumu refers to the stream you cross, part of a landscape etched with ancestral stories.

In later colonial years, the Hokonui Hills became legendary for a different reason: "Hokonui Moonshine." The rugged, hidden valleys were the perfect place for illicit whiskey distilling in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. While you won’t find any hidden stills on the Loop Track today, the sense of isolation and thick cover makes it easy to see why the "Hokonui" brand became famous throughout New Zealand.

Today, Dolamore Park represents a significant conservation effort. By maintaining this 95-hectare block of native forest, the local community is preserving a vital ecological link and providing a space where people can reconnect with the natural heritage of the South Island.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your loop and perhaps played a round of disc golf or let the kids loose on the excellent playground, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite. Gore is just a few minutes away and has some fantastic options for refueling:

• The Thomas Green: Located in the heart of Gore, this is a fantastic spot for a more substantial meal. It’s a beautifully restored building with a warm atmosphere, offering great local meats and a solid range of craft beers.
• Table on Main: A great choice for a relaxed cafe vibe. They do excellent coffee and have a cabinet full of "Kiwi classic" slices and savoury treats that are perfect after a morning in the bush.
• The Gore Public Gardens: If you haven't had enough of plants, these gardens are world-class and offer a very different, more formal botanical experience compared to the wild beauty of Dolamore.

The Dolamore Loop Track is proof that you don't need to head deep into the Southern Alps to find a world-class walking experience. It’s accessible, beautiful, and uniquely Southland.

Anthornis melanura

Renowned for its melodious, bell-like song, it plays a vital role in pollinating native plants.

Best time: Year-round