Nugget Point / Tokatā
Tokatā
The Catlins' iconic lighthouse headland, with a cluster of gold-nugget-like rocks in the sea and habitats for sea lions and fur seals.
A white lighthouse, built in 1870, stands at the top of a steep headland. Below it are rocks carved by the waves that look like a string of gold nuggets. Fur seals, sea lions and elephant seals often bask on the rocks. The car park is about a 10-minute walk from the lighthouse, and a wooden boardwalk follows the ridge. Winds are strong, so take care. The best photos are taken at sunrise. Nearby, Roaring Bay has a bird-watching hide, and at dusk you can watch yellow-eyed penguins return to their nests from a distance. Do not go onto the beach and disturb them. Entry is free.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Cannibal Bay
- Kaka Point
- Surat Bay
- Tunnel Hill Historic Reserve
- Jack's Blowhole
- Owaka Museum Wahi Kahuika
- Purakaunui Falls
- Matai Falls & Horseshoe Falls