Hapuka Estuary Walk
Alerts
Check the DOC website for current alerts and conditions before you go. This site gets current alert info from DOC, but is not an official source of information.
Beginning on a boardwalk through an intertidal zone, this track then takes you through podocarp forest to a lookout over the Open Bay Islands, just off the coast.
Elevation
Cover mapped summer 2023/24.
Description
A walk into the intertidal zone. Panels along the walk explain the ecology of the estuary and the story of whitebait, the rich birdlife and seals.
This area offers some fantastic photo opportunities, especially in spring when the kōwhai is in flower and tūī, korimako/bellbird and kererū (native pigeon) abound.
A viewing platform looks out to the Open Bay Islands of Taumaka and Popotai. This walk is signposted from the Jackson Bay Road. Dogs are not allowed on this track.
Getting there
Hapuka Estuary is located 17 km south of Haast on Jackson Bay Road. 3 km South of Okuru.
Nature and conservation
The many kowhai trees and flax (harakeke) along this track are a favourite for many native New Zealand birds like kererū, tūī, riroriro (grey warblers) and korimako (bellbirds). You may also find the elusive kōtare (sacred kingfisher) fishing in the area.
Weather
Forecast at the start of the track