Things to do

Things to do

There are many things to do in and around Tuatapere.

Local Walks

There are walks in the Domain that take you to an estimated one thousand year old Totara tree that is almost 2.5 metres in diameter. These walks are well maintained gravel tracks suitable for wheelchairs and most people regardless of age and fitness. The main entrance is signposted on the west side of the Waiau River bridge (35 minutes return).

A loop track (good gravel) in the bush beside the Tuatapere Cemetery takes you into another world of an ancient podocarp forest (45 minutes return).  The well kept cemetery holding untold history of the area can be found 4 kilometres north of Tuatapere along State Highway 99. For more information drop into the Information Centre – visit the Bushman’s Museum while you’re there.

Jet boats

Take a jet boat across the mysterious Lake Hauroko, New Zealand’s deepest lake, then down the Wairaurahiri River, the steepest river in New Zealand, through the heart of the remote Southern Fiordland National Park to the wild south coast.

The jet boat operators offer combined helicopter/jet boat packages that provide aerial views of the Percy Burn viaduct and the remote Southern Fiordland National Park. They can also arrange pickup and drop off of kayak’s so you can paddle down the mighty Wairaurahiri River and hitch a lift back via jet boat.

• Wairaurahiri Jet
• Hump Ridge Jet

Art Trail

A growing number of Artists are exhibiting their works in Tuatapere.

Wayne Edgerton’s Gallery 65 located in the old National Bank Building, 65 Main Street, Tuatapere, showcases landscape oil paintings that capture the essence of Fiordland and the wilderness of the area. Wayne’s paintings hold the mood of the scene and provide such depth that you can be completely drawn into them.

The Cwtch Gallery, exhibits some exceptionally inspirational works by Tammy and Greg at 6 Ferry Road, Tuatapere. If you are after something especially unique you will find it amongst these wonderful creations.

The local Craft Centre includes a selection of local arts and crafts along with a good selection of local New Zealand made products.

Stone Art Studio offers original works by Irene and Robert, using natural materials. Located at 11 Bridge Street.

These are all within easy walking distance of each other with a selection of places to stop for a coffee or something to eat along the way.

Places to Visit

• Bushman’s Museum
• McCracken’s Rest
• Bluecliffs Beach
• Gemstone Beach
• Monkey Island
• Cosy Nook
• Orepuki
• Waiau River
• Lake Hauroko
• Lake Monowai
• Clifden Suspension Bridge
• Clifden Limestone Caves
• Craft Centre

Walks and Tramps

• Hump Ridge Track
• Long Hilly Walking Track
• Borland Lodge
• South Coast Track
• Dusky Track
• Lake Hauroko Bush Walk
• The Big Totara Walk
• Lake Hauroko Lookout
• The Peninsula Lookout (Lake Monowai)