Awarua Wetlands
Awarua Wetland
A large internationally important wetland (Ramsar site) east of Bluff, where peat bogs and lagoons provide habitat for migratory birds.
The Awarua-Waituna Wetlands cover about 20,000 hectares. They were listed as a Ramsar wetland of international importance in 1976. The area includes peat bogs, lagoons, salt marshes and beaches, and in summer migratory birds such as bar-tailed godwits arrive. Birdwatching hides and short trails near the wetlands let you observe wildlife up close, and information boards describe the native plants. Entry is free, and facilities are basic. It's about 25 minutes by car from Invercargill, and the road is unsealed gravel.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Stirling Point
- Bluff Hill Lookout (Motupōhue)
- Bill Richardson Transport World
- Bluff Oysters
- Bluff Maritime Museum
- Invercargill Water Tower
- First Church Invercargill
- St Mary's Basilica