Petrie's Track (Sandy Point Domain)

Loop

Highlights & Must-See Features

The undeniable star of the show on Petrie’s Track is the view over the estuary. As the track winds along the edge of the land, the bush opens up to reveal the sweeping expanse where the Oreti River meets the Foveaux Strait. Depending on the tide, the views can vary from shimmering blue channels to vast, intricate sandflats. It is a fantastic spot for photography, especially during the "golden hour" just before sunset when the light reflects off the water.

Another highlight is the sheer diversity of the flora. For those interested in New Zealand’s ecological restoration, Petrie’s Track is a living classroom. You’ll see young mānuka and kānuka pushing through, alongside ferns and various native shrubs that are reclaiming the land.

For families, the highlight is often the ease of the trail. There are plenty of spots where the kids can stop to inspect a curious fungus or watch a beetle without the pressure of a steep climb. It’s a "low-stress, high-reward" trail that makes for a perfect weekend morning outing.

Getting There

Getting to the trailhead is a breeze. From Invercargill, head west along Dunns Road toward the coast. Follow the signs for Sandy Point Domain. Once you enter the domain, look for Daffodil Bay Road.

There is ample parking available at the Daffodil Bay Road car park, which serves as the primary gateway for Petrie’s Track. The car park is spacious and well-marked, and you’ll find trail maps and signage near the entrance to help orient yourself. It’s a popular spot, but because the domain is so vast, it rarely feels overcrowded.

Wildlife Spotting

If you’re a bird enthusiast, bring your binoculars! The mix of native bush, pine forest, and estuary frontage creates a "triple-threat" habitat that attracts a wide range of feathered residents.

The most common companion you’ll have on the trail is the Fantail (Piwakawaka). These friendly little birds are known for following hikers, flitting about to catch the insects stirred up by your footsteps. You’ll also likely hear the melodic, bell-like call of the Tūī echoing through the trees long before you see them.

• Kererū (New Zealand Pigeon): These heavy-set birds are occasionally seen perched in the higher branches. Listen for the distinctive "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings as they fly.
• Silvereye (Tauhou): Look for these tiny birds with distinctive white rings around their eyes moving in small, fast-paced flocks through the shrubs.
• Pied Stilt (Poaka): Down by the estuary edges, you’ll often see these elegant, long-legged waders probing the mud for snacks.
• White-faced Heron: A more occasional sight, these graceful birds can often be spotted standing perfectly still in the shallows of the river mouth.

The best time for birdwatching is early morning or late afternoon when the birds are most active and the "dawn chorus" or evening songs are in full swing.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Spring: The bush is vibrant and new growth is everywhere. The birdlife is particularly vocal as they prepare for the nesting season.
• Summer: The shade of the pine forest provides a welcome relief from the Southland sun. It’s the perfect time for a picnic at the nearby Daffodil Bay.
• Autumn: The air turns crisp, and the light over the estuary becomes incredibly clear and sharp.
• Winter: While it can be chilly, the track remains in good condition. A brisk walk here on a frosty morning followed by a hot coffee is a local tradition.

• What to wear: Even though the track is easy, Southland weather is famously unpredictable. A windproof jacket is a must, as the coastal breeze coming off the Foveaux Strait can be biting, even on a sunny day.
• Footwear: Trainers or sturdy walking shoes are perfectly fine. You don’t need heavy-duty hiking boots for this one.
• Sun Protection: Even on overcast days, the NZ sun is strong. Wear a hat and sunscreen, especially on the more open sections of the track.
• Timing: Start your walk about an hour before high tide if you want to see the estuary at its most scenic, with the water pushed right up to the edges.

Local & Regional Context

Sandy Point Domain (officially the Otatara-Sandy Point area) is a place of immense significance. Covering over 2,000 hectares, it is one of the most important recreational and ecological sites in Southland.

Historically, this area was a vital site for Māori settlement, providing a rich source of mahinga kai (food gathering) from the river and sea. Later, in the 19th century, the area was utilised for whaling and flax milling—industries that shaped the early colonial economy of the south.

Today, Sandy Point is a testament to conservation. Much of the native bush you see on Petrie’s Track is the result of dedicated ecological restoration and pest control efforts. The goal is to return the sand-dune forest to its original state, providing a sanctuary for native species. When you walk here, you’re walking through a landscape that is slowly but surely being returned to its roots.

After the Walk

After you’ve stretched your legs and filled your lungs with coastal air, you’ll likely be looking for a spot to refuel. You don’t have to go far.

Just 2km away from the domain is Ziff’s Cafe & Bar. This is a legendary local institution and the perfect "après-hike" spot. It’s got a wonderfully cozy atmosphere, complete with fireside seating for those chilly Southland days and an outdoor area for the summer months.

Their menu is classic Kiwi fare at its best. If you’re hungry, their generous portions of fresh seafood or their famous crispy chicken salad are highly recommended. It’s a friendly, relaxed environment where you’ll feel just as comfortable in your walking gear as you would in a suit. It’s the perfect way to cap off a morning exploring the beautiful Petrie’s Track.