Waikouaiti: Nature, History and Golf

Waikouaiti lies north of Dunedin on State Highway 1.

Nature and a walk at Hawksbury Lagoon

Hawksbury Lagoon in Waikouaiti is a wildlife refuge and habitat for ducks and native birds. At different times of the year, large numbers of birds use the lagoon as a stopover along their migratory route or for breeding. Its importance to birdlife therefore encompasses both resting and breeding.

The Hawksbury Walk starts at the beach on Beach Street, first following the beach and then heading upstream to the lagoon. It then follows causeways around and across the lagoon before returning to Beach Street. The route alternates between the beach section and paths beside and over the water. If you plan to walk the route, Beach Street and this change of scenery are useful landmarks. Dogs are not allowed at Hawksbury Lagoon.

Regional history in town

The Waikouaiti Coast Heritage Centre combines regional history with personal family research. The regional museum holds more than 19,000 objects and offers a personalised genealogical research service. Anyone interested in their own family history will find a focused resource here, while the collection also provides a broader regional context. The Centre also offers tours of the former BNZ bank building. As tour arrangements can change, check what is currently available before your visit.

St John the Evangelist Anglican Church opened in 1858. It is believed to be the first Anglican church built in Otago and Southland. Its opening year and this carefully qualified historical significance give the town’s history a specific point of reference.

Historic places nearby

Matanaka Farm lies north of Waikouaiti and is accessible via State Highway 1. Dating from around 1840, it is considered Otago’s oldest farm and is said to include some of New Zealand’s oldest surviving farm buildings. The farm sits on a headland overlooking Waikouaiti. Its surviving outbuildings include a stable, a granary, a schoolhouse and a three-seater privy. These buildings illustrate the different functions of a historic farming operation.

The settlement’s history is also linked to 1840, when Jones encouraged families from Sydney, Australia, to move to Waikouaiti. This was the first organised settlement on the South Island’s east coast.

Golf as another reason to visit

Waikouaiti Golf Course is located on Edinburgh Street. The course has nine holes, with different tees for the second round. Golf is therefore a distinct, clearly defined focus alongside the town’s birdlife and history. You can weigh up which of these interests will guide your trip planning by considering the places and activities described here.

Waikouaiti within the wider destination of Dunedin City

Within its city limits, Dunedin City stretches from the coastal town of Waikouaiti to the southern coastal settlement of Taieri Mouth, and inland to Hyde. The name Dunedin City therefore covers a wide area. Other options within this wider destination include the Tunnel Beach Walk on Dunedin’s south coast, a short walk to a historic tunnel and a secluded beach.

The Dunedin Botanic Garden in Dunedin City offers a different focus: it covers 28 hectares and has more than 6,800 plant species. The garden is free to enter, open daily from sunrise to sunset, and offers bookable guided tours. As this is current visitor information, check the details before planning your visit.

Discover more destinations: Warrington, Dunedin, Hyde, Mosgiel, Port Chalmers, Waitati, Brighton, Middlemarch

For the wider travel overview: Dunedin City.