Lake Wilkie Track

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undisputed star of the show is the lake itself. Lake Wilkie is a rare "bog lake," formed in a depression at the end of the last ice age. What makes it fascinating is the process of "succession." Essentially, the lake is slowly disappearing. Over thousands of years, the surrounding forest has been creeping inward, with sphagnum moss and silt gradually filling the edges and turning open water into solid land.

The Mirror Effect: On a calm day, the water of Lake Wilkie acts like a black mirror. Because the water is stained dark by organic acids (tannins) leaching from the surrounding peat, it creates a surface so reflective that it’s often hard to tell where the forest ends and the water begins. It is a photographer's dream, especially when the sky is blue and the clouds are caught in the reflection.

The Rātā Bloom: If you happen to visit during the height of summer—specifically December or January—keep an eye out for the Southern Rātā. These trees produce vibrant crimson flowers that turn the forest canopy into a sea of red. It is a spectacular sight that draws in nectar-loving birds from all over the Catlins.

Educational Panels: Along the track, you’ll find several interpretive panels. These aren't your average boring signs; they provide a fascinating "then and now" look at how the vegetation has changed over the millennia, explaining exactly why you see certain plants at the water’s edge and others further back in the forest.

Getting There

The Lake Wilkie Track is located on the Southern Scenic Route (State Highway 92), roughly 60 kilometres south of Balclutha and about 100 kilometres east of Invercargill.

The carpark is situated just south of the Tautuku Outdoor Education Centre. It is a large, gravelled area right next to the highway, so you can’t miss it. The track entrance is located at the northern corner of the carpark. If you are coming from the north (Dunedin/Balclutha direction), keep an eye out for the Tautuku Bay signs—the Lake Wilkie turn-off is just a few minutes further down the road.

Wildlife Spotting

The Catlins is a stronghold for New Zealand’s native birdlife, and the Lake Wilkie forest is no exception. Because the forest is so mature and diverse, it provides a year-round pantry for many species.

• Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon): You’ll often hear these before you see them—listen for the heavy "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings. They love the berries of the miro and tōtara trees.
• Tūī and Bellbird (Korimako): These are the musicians of the forest. Their complex, bell-like notes echo through the canopy. During the rātā bloom, they are particularly active, darting from flower to flower.
• Pīwakawaka (Fantail): These friendly little birds will likely follow you along the track, flitting about to catch the insects you disturb as you walk.
• Fernbird (Mātātā): If you are quiet while on the boardwalk at the lake’s edge, you might spot the elusive mātātā in the low-lying wetland scrub. They are small, brown, and have a distinctive "u-tick" call.

Top Tip: The best time for birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon when the forest is at its most vocal. Bring a pair of binoculars if you have them, but even without them, the sheer volume of birdsong is impressive.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Summer: The best time for the rātā bloom and the warmest walking temperatures.
• Autumn: The air is crisp, and the lake is often at its calmest, providing those perfect "mirror" reflections.
• Winter: The forest feels moody and ancient. Just be prepared for a bit of mud on the lower sections of the track if there has been heavy rain.
• Spring: Fresh growth on the ferns and the beginning of the nesting season for many birds.

• Footwear: While the first half is easy, the descent to the lake can be a little slippery after rain. Sturdy sneakers or walking shoes are perfectly fine.
• Rain Gear: This is the Catlins! The weather can change in a heartbeat. A light raincoat is always a smart addition to your pack.
• Insect Repellent: The proximity to the lake and boggy areas means sandflies can occasionally be a nuisance, especially if you stop for a long time on the boardwalk.
• Water: It’s a short walk, but a bottle of water is always a good idea.

Weather Considerations: The Catlins is exposed to the Southern Ocean, meaning southerly swells and winds can be cold. However, the Lake Wilkie Track is tucked away in the forest, offering excellent protection from the wind. It’s a great "bad weather" option when the coastal beaches are too windy to enjoy.

Local & Regional Context

The Tautuku area is deeply significant both ecologically and historically. For Māori, the Catlins (known as Te Tai Poutini in some contexts, but specifically part of the Ngāi Tahu takiwā) provided a rich "mahinga kai" (food gathering area). The forests were a source of birds, and the nearby coast provided abundant seafood.

Geologically, Lake Wilkie is a remnant of the post-glacial period. As the sea levels rose and then stabilised, sand dunes formed across the mouth of the Tautuku valley, trapping water and creating the lake. The "succession" you see today—where plants like sphagnum moss and manuka gradually give way to larger trees—is a slow-motion film of how New Zealand's landscapes have been built over the centuries.

Today, the area is part of a wider conservation effort to protect the unique biodiversity of the Catlins. By staying on the tracks and boardwalks, you’re helping to protect the fragile bog environment that has taken ten millennia to form.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your stroll and breathed in that fresh forest air, you’ll likely be looking for a spot to refuel.

• The Whistling Frog Cafe & Bar: Located just a few kilometres north in Papatowai. It’s a classic Catlins stop with a great atmosphere, serving up hearty meals, great coffee, and local craft beers. It’s a favourite for hikers and road trippers alike.
• Papatowai: Take a quick drive to the Papatowai beach or the estuary. It’s a great spot for a picnic if you’ve brought your own supplies.
• Curio Bay: If you are heading south, keep going towards Curio Bay. There is a small seasonal cafe there, and you can see the famous petrified forest at low tide—another incredible geological wonder of the region.

The Lake Wilkie Track is more than just a quick leg-stretcher; it’s a peaceful immersion into the heart of the Catlins. Whether you’re interested in the science of the "shrinking lake" or you just want a beautiful photo of a forest reflection, this little loop is guaranteed to be a highlight of your journey.