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Moeraki Peninsula
800 metres
18 minutes
25 metres
If you find yourself wandering along the Otago coast, most people will tell you to stop at the famous Moeraki Boulders. While those geological marbles are certainly a sight to behold, there is a hidden gem just a few minutes further down the road that offers a far more intimate connection with the wild spirit of the South Island. The Kātiki Point Walking Track is a short, easy, and utterly captivating coastal ramble that packs an incredible amount of scenery, wildlife, and history into a mere 800-metre return trip.
Located on the southern tip of the Moeraki Peninsula, Kātiki Point feels like a place where the land is still having an argument with the sea. It is a rugged, windswept finger of land that reaches out into the Pacific, serving as a sanctuary for some of New Zealand’s rarest residents and a guardian of deep cultural stories. Whether you are a local looking for a weekend stroll or a tourist seeking that quintessential New Zealand "wild" experience, this track is a must-do.
The beauty of the Kātiki Point Walking Track lies in its accessibility. At just 0.8km return, it’s a walk that almost anyone can enjoy, regardless of fitness level. But don't let the short distance fool you; you’ll likely spend much longer than the estimated 20 minutes here because there is simply so much to see.
The journey begins at the historic Kātiki Point Lighthouse, a white-timber sentinel that has been guiding mariners since 1878. From the carpark, the trail is a well-formed, easy-to-follow path that skirts the edge of the dramatic clifftops. As you walk, you are treated to commanding 360-degree views. To one side, the vast, shimmering Pacific Ocean stretches toward the horizon; to the other, the rolling green hills of the Otago countryside provide a soft contrast to the jagged coastline.
The terrain is generally flat, making it very kid-friendly, though there are a few short, gentle inclines and descents as you approach the various viewing platforms. The path is exposed to the elements, which means you’ll feel the refreshing (and sometimes biting) salt spray on your face and the famous Otago wind in your hair. Below the cliffs, the ocean crashes against rugged, rocky platforms—the playground of the local seals. It’s a sensory experience that feels much larger than the distance covered on the map.
Parking is available at the end of Lighthouse Road, which is a gravel and narrow road, so care should be taken, especially in larger vehicles like campervans. There are limited parking spots at this popular walk. Toilet facilities are located by the carpark.
Get DirectionsKeep an eye out for these native and local bird species along the trail
Megadyptes antipodes
One of the rarest penguins in the world, hoiho nest in the bushy headlands of the Otago Peninsula and are most likely seen in the late afternoon as they return to shore after a day of fishing.
Best time: Year-round
Eudyptula minor
These are the world's smallest penguins, known for their unique slate-blue feathers that help them camouflage in the ocean.
Best time: Year-round
Refuel after your hike at these nearby spots
4km away
The only pub in Moeraki, offering uninterrupted ocean views, a range of beers, wines, and hearty restaurant meals including local seafood and ribeye steak. Family-friendly with free Wi-Fi, perfect for a post-hike unwind.
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Out and back
The Kātiki Point Lighthouse is the first highlight you’ll encounter. Standing at the start of the track, it provides a fantastic photo opportunity and a sense of the colonial history of the region. However, the real stars of the show are often found closer to the ground.
One of the standout features of this walk is the chance to see the New Zealand fur seals (kekeno). These charismatic marine mammals are frequently seen hauled out on the rocky shelves below the cliffs. Watching them bask in the sun or clumsily navigate the rocks before gracefully sliding into the surf is a highlight for visitors of all ages.
Further along, the track leads you through the site of the Te Raka a Hineatea Pā. While the physical structures of the old fortified village are long gone, a recently upgraded palisade fence and excellent interpretive signage help bring the history to life. The view from the tip of the point, looking back toward the mainland, is arguably one of the best coastal vistas in the South Island.
To find this coastal treasure, head toward the township of Moeraki. From State Highway 1, follow the signs for Moeraki, then continue past the township onto Lighthouse Road.
Be aware that Lighthouse Road is a narrow gravel road. It is perfectly manageable for standard cars, but if you are driving a larger vehicle like a campervan, you’ll want to take extra care and keep a sharp eye out for oncoming traffic. The road ends at a dedicated carpark right by the lighthouse.
Parking is free but can be limited, especially during the peak summer months or at sunset, as this is a very popular spot for wildlife photography. You’ll find basic toilet facilities located right by the carpark, which is handy before you set off on your walk.
Kātiki Point is an ecological powerhouse. It is most famous for being home to the largest breeding colony of the critically endangered yellow-eyed penguin (hoiho) on the South Island. These birds are incredibly shy and rare, so seeing one is a true privilege.
To increase your chances of a sighting, timing is everything. The hoiho are best viewed in the early morning (before 9 am) or in the late afternoon (after 3 pm). This is when they either head out to sea for a day of fishing or return to their nests to feed their young.
A note on safety and ethics: To protect these precious creatures, visitors must remain on the formed track at all times. The beach is strictly off-limits to ensure the penguins have a clear, stress-free path to their nests. Keep noise to a minimum and never use flash photography when near the wildlife.
Best time to start: Aim for about 90 minutes before sunset. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy the walk, read the history boards, and settle into a viewing spot to wait for the penguins to arrive home as the sun dips low.
Operating Hours: Note that the reserve has limited daily hours, typically 7:30 am to 5:30 pm. This is to give the wildlife some much-needed peace and quiet during the night. Also, eating within the reserve is respectfully discouraged due to its spiritual significance to the local Māori.
The land you are walking on is deeply sacred to Kāi Tahu, the local Māori iwi (tribe). The site of the Te Raka a Hineatea Pā was a significant fortified village built by the renowned Chief Taoka. It served as a strategic lookout and a place of protection. When you stand at the edge of the cliffs, it is easy to see why this spot was chosen; nothing could approach by sea or land without being spotted.
The conservation efforts here are a massive part of the local story. The survival of the hoiho is a precarious thing, and the work done by local volunteers and conservationists to manage predators and restore habitat is what allows us to still see these birds today. By staying on the track and following the rules, you are directly contributing to these protection efforts.
After you’ve filled your camera roll and breathed in enough salt air, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite. Fortunately, Moeraki is home to some of the best food in the region, just a 4km drive back down the road.
The Kātiki Point Walking Track is more than just a short walk; it’s a condensed version of everything that makes the New Zealand coast so special—wildlife, history, and raw, natural beauty. It’s a quiet, reflective alternative to the busier tourist stops and one that will stay with you long after you’ve left the lighthouse behind.
Puffinus griseus
Known as 'tītī' or muttonbirds, they undertake one of the longest migratory journeys of any seabird, with millions passing off the New Zealand coast.
Best time: Spring-Autumn
Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae scopulinus
This native New Zealand gull is a common sight in coastal towns, easily identified by its bright red bill, eye-ring, and legs.
Best time: Year-round
Phalacrocorax punctatus
Endemic to New Zealand, these cormorants are distinguished by their pale grey plumage and double crests during breeding season.
Best time: Year-round
Haematopus unicolor
Coastal wading bird with a distinctive long orange-red bill. Found on beaches and estuaries around New Zealand.
Best time: Year-round
4km away
A world-renowned restaurant, cafe, and bar situated right on the waterfront at the old jetty in Moeraki. Famous for its incredibly fresh fish, often landed directly from local fishing boats. Offers a unique dining experience in a charming, rustic setting.