Rover Track (Sandy Point Domain)

Loop

Another must-see feature is the insight into the area's ecological recovery. Sandy Point Domain is a significant environmental resource, and the Rover Track takes you right through the heart of its restoration. Keep an eye out for the interpretive signage along the way; it adds a layer of depth to the walk, explaining how the native forest is being encouraged to return.

For those interested in history, the track itself is a gateway to the past. While you are walking through what looks like a natural wilderness, you are actually traversing a peninsula that was once a hive of industry. Just a short distance from the track, you can find traces of the area's colonial past, including its time as a shore whaling station and a hub for flax milling.

Finally, don’t miss the views toward the Foveaux Strait. On a wilder day, you can see the whitecaps in the distance, reminding you that you are at the bottom of the world. It’s a powerful contrast to the sheltered, calm environment of the bush-lined track.

Getting There

Finding the Rover Track is straightforward, making it an ideal choice for a spontaneous outing. From Invercargill, head west along Dunns Road, which leads you straight into the Sandy Point Domain.

The best place to start is the Daffodil Bay Road carpark. As you drive down Daffodil Bay Road, look for the point where the road bends sharply to the right (about 650 metres in). There is ample parking available here. This carpark also serves as a hub for several other walks, so it’s a great spot to orient yourself. If you find yourself near the Water Ski Area playground at 9 Daffodil Bay Road, you’re in the right vicinity.

The track is well-signposted, and because it is a loop, you can start your journey in either direction, though many prefer to head toward the water first to get those estuary views early on.

Wildlife Spotting

For bird lovers, the Rover Track is a hidden gem. The mix of coastal, estuarine, and forest environments creates a "biodiversity hotspot" where you can see a surprising range of species in a short space of time.

The most common companion on your walk will be the pīwakawaka (New Zealand fantail). These cheeky little birds are known for following hikers, darting in and out of the bushes to catch the insects stirred up by your feet. You’ll also hear the melodic call of the tūī echoing through the trees year-round.

Keep your eyes on the sky and the higher branches for the kererū (New Zealand pigeon). These large, iridescent green birds are unmistakable, especially when you hear the heavy "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings as they fly overhead. Down on the mudflats of the estuary, look for the South Island Pied Oystercatcher (SIPO) with its bright orange beak, particularly during the spring and summer months. You might also spot a White-faced Heron standing perfectly still in the shallows, waiting for a fish to swim by.

Pro Tip: If you want the best bird-watching experience, try to visit in the early morning. The birds are most active then, and the lack of wind makes it easier to hear their calls.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

The Rover Track is truly a year-round destination, with each season offering a different flavour of the Southland landscape:

• Spring: This is a fantastic time for birdlife. The Oystercatchers are back, and the native bush begins to burst with new growth.
• Summer: The coastal breeze is a welcome relief on warmer days. This is the best time for a family picnic at one of the nearby spots after your walk.
• Autumn: The light in Southland during autumn is soft and golden, making the estuary views particularly stunning. The air is often still and crisp.
• Winter: Don't let the cold deter you! A winter walk at Sandy Point is incredibly refreshing. Just wrap up warm, and you’ll often find you have the track almost to yourself.

• Time of Day: Late afternoon is a personal favourite. The way the sun sets over the Oreti River is spectacular.
• What to Wear: Even on a sunny day, the coastal wind can have a bite. A windproof jacket is a must. Because the track is flat and well-maintained, standard walking shoes are perfectly fine.
• Sun Protection: The Southland sun can be surprisingly strong, even when it feels cool. Slip, slop, slap, and wrap!
• Dogs and Kids: This walk is exceptionally kid-friendly due to its flat grade and short distance. Dogs are more than welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times to protect the nesting birds and native wildlife.

Local & Regional Context

Sandy Point Domain is more than just a park; it is a place of deep historical and cultural significance. For Māori, the area was traditionally used for gathering resources, and its position at the mouth of the Oreti River made it an important site.

In the 19th century, the landscape changed dramatically. In 1863, it was the site of a shore whaling station, and later, the area became a hub for the flax milling industry. Flax mills operated here right up until the 1970s. As you walk the Rover Track, you are walking through a landscape that has been transformed by human hand many times over—from native forest to industrial site, and now back to a protected recreational and ecological reserve.

If you have a bit of extra time, I highly recommend stopping by the unmanned visitor centre located on Sandy Point Road. It’s filled with fascinating displays and interpretive material that delve into the natural and human history of the peninsula. Understanding the heritage of the land makes the quiet beauty of the Rover Track feel even more special.

After the Walk

No Southland walk is complete without a bit of local hospitality. Once you’ve finished your loop and stretched your legs, head just 1.8km down the road to Ziff’s Cafe & Bar.

Ziff’s is a local institution and the perfect place to refuel. It has a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere that caters to everyone from muddy-booted hikers to families out for a celebratory meal. If you’re hungry, their seafood chowder is legendary—creamy, packed with local fish, and served with crusty bread, it’s the ultimate comfort food after a coastal walk. If you’re after something lighter, their crispy chicken salad is a consistent favourite.

Whether you grab a coffee and a slice of cake or sit down for a full hearty meal, it’s the perfect way to cap off your morning or afternoon at Sandy Point. It’s that combination of a beautiful natural walk and great local food that makes a day at the Rover Track a quintessential Kiwi experience.