Waikouaiti: Lagoon, Birdlife and History

Waikouaiti lies north of Dunedin on State Highway 1. Hawksbury Lagoon brings birdlife and seasonal nature watching to the fore; the Waikouaiti Coast Heritage Centre, St John the Evangelist and nearby Matanaka Farm tell the story of the region’s history. A 9-hole golf course adds to these varied interests.

Hawksbury Lagoon: Habitat and Trail Route

Hawksbury Lagoon in Waikouaiti is a wildlife refuge and provides habitat for ducks and native birds. At different times of year, large numbers of birds use the lagoon as a stopover on their migratory route or for breeding. Both migratory stopovers and breeding are part of the seasonal picture at the refuge.

The Hawksbury Trail starts at the beach near Beach Street, first following the beach and then heading upstream to the lagoon. It then follows the causeways around and across the lagoon before returning to Beach Street. The route links the beach, river and lagoon. If you are travelling with a dog, please note: dogs are not allowed at Hawksbury Lagoon.

Regional History in Waikouaiti and the Surrounding Area

The Waikouaiti Coast Heritage Centre is a regional museum with a collection of more than 19,000 objects. It also offers a personalised genealogical research service. For visitors interested in family history, this service offers a different focus from the museum collection. Tours of the former BNZ bank building are also offered at the Centre. As tour arrangements may change, it is advisable to check the current arrangements before your visit.

St John the Evangelist in Waikouaiti opened in 1858. The Anglican church is believed to be the first of its kind built in Otago and Southland. Nearby, Matanaka Farm adds the history of farming to this historical perspective. It lies north of Waikouaiti and can be reached via State Highway 1. The farm dates from around 1840, is Otago’s oldest farm and is said to include some of New Zealand’s oldest surviving farm buildings.

The surviving outbuildings at Matanaka Farm include a stable, a grain store, a schoolhouse and a three-seat privy. The farm sits on a headland overlooking Waikouaiti. The story of the settlement also includes Jones’ encouragement for families from Sydney to move to Waikouaiti in 1840. This settlement was the first organised settlement on the South Island’s east coast.

Golf as Another Travel Highlight

Waikouaiti Golf Course is a 9-hole course with different tees for the second round. This means the starting point changes for another round, even though the course has nine holes. It is a distinct focus alongside nature watching and the region’s historical attractions.

These differences can help you choose where to stay: at Hawksbury Lagoon, the focus is on birdlife and the trail route; the Heritage Centre, church and Matanaka offer different ways to explore regional history. The golf course offers a clearly defined playing option, with a special feature for the second round. If you are looking for accommodation in Waikouaiti, consider which of these interests you want to shape your trip.

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

For the main travel overview: Dunedin City.