Waikawa The Old Coach Road

Out and back

The trail is an out-and-back format, meaning you’ll follow the same historic path back to your starting point. This gives you a second chance to spot any details you might have missed on the way in—perhaps a particularly well-preserved section of stonework or a shy bird hiding in the foliage.

Highlights & Must-See Features

The primary highlight of this trail is undoubtedly its historical significance. In the 1880s, this wasn't a recreational walkway; it was a vital transport link. Imagine the sound of iron-rimmed wheels clattering over the stones and the steam rising from a team of horses as they navigated the coastal weather. Seeing the hand-built nature of the road up close gives you a profound appreciation for the ingenuity and sheer physical labour of the early settlers.

For the photographers among us, the Waikawa estuary provides a stunning backdrop, especially when the light is low in the early morning or late afternoon. The way the sky reflects off the still water of the estuary creates a mirror-like effect that is simply breathtaking.

Another feature to look out for is the locally quarried stone. In several sections, you can still see the original construction methods used to stabilize the road against the encroaching sea. It’s a rare opportunity to walk on a piece of engineering that has survived over 140 years of coastal elements.

Getting There

Waikawa is located in the heart of the Catlins, about an hour’s drive from Invercargill or roughly two and a half hours from Dunedin. The settlement itself is small and peaceful, perfectly reflecting the "slow travel" vibe of the region.

To find the trailhead, head towards the Waikawa Museum and Information Centre located at 604 Niagara-Waikawa Highway. This is a great place to start your visit, as the museum provides excellent context for the region's whaling and timber-milling past.

• There is ample parking available near the Museum and Information Centre.
• Alternatively, you can find general roadside parking within the Waikawa settlement near the start of the track.

Please note that while this is a fantastic walk for children, dogs are not permitted on this trail to protect the local wildlife and the integrity of the historic site.

Wildlife Spotting

The Catlins is a haven for birdlife, and the Waikawa estuary is a particularly busy "airport" for feathered travellers. Because the track skirts the water’s edge, you have a front-row seat to both forest-dwelling and wading birds.

• New Zealand Fantail (Pīwakawaka): These friendly little birds will likely follow you along the track, flitting about to catch the insects you stir up as you walk.
• Tui: Listen for their distinctive, melodic chimes and coughs. You’ll often see them high in the canopy or diving between flax bushes.
• New Zealand Bellbird (Korimako): Often mistaken for the Tui, the Bellbird has a clear, bell-like song that is a staple of the New Zealand bush.
• New Zealand Pigeon (Kererū): Look for these large, heavy-set birds in the trees. You’ll often hear the "whoosh-whoosh" of their wings before you see them.

• South Island Pied Oystercatcher (Tōrea): You’ll often see these black and white birds with their long orange bills prodding the mudflats for food.
• Eastern Bar-tailed Godwit (Kuaka): If you visit between spring and autumn, keep an eye out for these incredible migratory birds. They fly all the way from Alaska to spend their summer in New Zealand estuaries. Seeing them resting on the Waikawa mudflats is a real treat for nature lovers.

Tips for Spotting: The best time for birdwatching is usually early morning or just before dusk when the birds are most active. Bringing a pair of binoculars will help you spot the Godwits further out on the estuary without disturbing them.

Seasonal Magic & Practical Tips

• Spring: This is when the bush comes alive with new growth and the bird song is at its most frantic. It’s also when the migratory Godwits begin to arrive.
• Summer: The most popular time to visit. The coastal breeze is refreshing on a hot day, and the long daylight hours give you plenty of time to explore.
• Autumn: The light in the Catlins during autumn is golden and soft—perfect for photography. The air is crisp, and the crowds are thinner.

Best Time of Day: The walk is best enjoyed at low tide. When the tide is out, the estuary reveals its full character, and the wading birds are most active on the exposed mudflats.

• Footwear: Even though it’s an easy walk, the Catlins can be damp. Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers are fine, but ensure they have a bit of grip.
• Layers: The weather in the far south can change in a heartbeat. Even on a sunny day, a light windbreaker or fleece is a good idea.
• Sun Protection: The Southern sun is famously strong. Wear a hat and apply sunscreen, even if it looks overcast.
• Camera/Phone: You’ll definitely want to capture the views and the historic stonework.

Local & Regional Context

The Catlins (Te Tai Tokerau) is a region steeped in both Māori and European history. For the local Māori, the area was a significant source of mahinga kai (food gathering), with the coast providing an abundance of seafood and the forests providing birds.

In the 1800s, Waikawa became a bustling port town. It was a hub for the timber and flax industries, and at its peak, it was a far busier place than it is today. The Old Coach Road was built during this era of expansion. Before the road existed, travel between these isolated coastal settlements was often done via the beach, which was dangerous and entirely dependent on the tides. The construction of the coach road was a major leap forward for the community, allowing for more reliable mail delivery and passenger travel.

The Catlins is also geologically fascinating. The coastline is part of a large sunken forest and features rock formations that date back to the Jurassic period. While you won't see dinosaurs on the Old Coach Road, you are walking on a landscape that has remained relatively unchanged for millennia.

After the Walk

Once you’ve finished your stroll and soaked in the history, you’ll likely be ready for a coffee or a bite to eat. Luckily, one of the best cafes in the region is just a stone's throw away.

Niagara Falls Cafe is located only 2km from Waikawa. Don’t let the name confuse you—the "Niagara Falls" here is a cheeky local joke referring to a very small set of rapids on the Waikawa River. The cafe itself is housed in a beautifully restored historic school building.

It’s the perfect place for hikers to refuel. They are famous for their homemade food, using fresh local produce to create hearty breakfasts and lunches. Whether you're after a flat white and a slice of cake or a full meal, the friendly atmosphere and historic setting make it a must-visit. It’s a great spot to sit back, look over your photos, and plan your next Catlins adventure.

The Waikawa The Old Coach Road may be a short walk, but it is a perfect example of why the Catlins is so special. It’s a place where history, nature, and a quiet sense of peace all come together. Whether you are a local Southlander or a tourist from the other side of the world, this little path offers a memorable glimpse into the "Old New Zealand" that we all love.

Anthornis melanura

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

Best time: Year-round