Explore a Petrified Forest and Unique Wildlife along New Zealand's Stunning Scenic Trail
The Catlin Coastal Heritage Trail (CCHT), an offshoot of the Southlands Scenic Route, offers a unique opportunity to explore a beautiful and enchanted part of New Zealand. This trail begins from the city of East Hampton and winds its way along the southern coast of the Catlins, a remote and isolated region known for its waterfalls, craggy coasts, petrified forests, and unique wildlife.
Your journey along the CCHT starts at a point marked by a small waterfall humorously named after the Niagara Falls in New York. From here, you'll drive through stunning landscapes, filled with awe-inspiring vistas and native MaΜori history.
One of the highlights of the trail is the Waipapa Reservation Area, where you can walk around and read informative plates about the unique history of the region. At the heart of this area stands the Waipapa Point Lighthouse, built three years after the SS Tararua disaster, New Zealand's worst civilian maritime disaster, claiming 131 lives.
The trail leads you to the Waipawa Museum, which showcases the way of life of both the native MaΜori and European settlers who made the area their home in the late 19th century. Another must-visit location is Curio Bay, where you'll find a petrified forest that is over 160 million years old.
The CCHT is also home to unique wildlife, including the Hector's dolphins, a species only found off the coast of southern New Zealand. Porpoise Bay is a special site where these dolphins can be seen.
Exploring the Catlins is best done by renting a car or camper van. You can access the CCHT by flying to the smaller airport in Dunedin from either Christchurch or Wellington international airports, followed by a two and a half hour drive along the Southlands Scenic Route to the town of Niagara. The trail contains 13 stopping points and requires at least five hours of exploration to fully appreciate.
Before you leave, don't forget to visit the Tumu Toka Curioscape in Curio Bay. This interactive museum and campground provides a truly immersive experience into the unique section of New Zealand nature.
New Zealand, a country where a mountain is legally considered a person, promises an unforgettable adventure. So, pack your bags, rent a car, and embark on a journey through the Catlin Coastal Heritage Trail. It's an experience you won't forget!
