Cape Foulwind Walkway

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Walking Trail Westport
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Walking
15 mins - 1 hr, easy difficulty
About the trail
Shorter option: 500m - Longer option: 2.9km.
one way.
A seal colony, a lighthouse and panoramic views of mountains and coastline feature on this spectacular coastal walkway. With the beach close by as well it's a good option for children. It's also one of our best short walks.
Dog friendly
Yes
Things to know
No dogs are allowed on the trail due to access agreements with the landowners. Seasonal restrictions The busiest time for fur seals is November to February.
  • Submitted by Lisa Pitcher
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  • Kawatiri Coastal Trail - Cape Foulwind
    Kawatiri Coastal Trail - Cape Foulwind Submitted by Derek Neal
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    FYI it seems dogs (even on a leash) are no longer allowed on this walk/trail
  • Submitted by Lucy Chu
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  • 'New Zealand: Cape Foulwind Lighthouse'
    'New Zealand: Cape Foulwind Lighthouse'
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    Source: Eli Duke / Creative Commons

  • 'Cape Foulwind'
    'Cape Foulwind'
    5 of 5

    Source: Russell Street / Creative Commons 

  • Kawatiri Coastal Trail - Cape Foulwind
  • 'New Zealand: Cape Foulwind Lighthouse'
  • 'Cape Foulwind'
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Shorter option: Tauranga Bay carpark to seal colony viewpoint

  • Time: 15 min
  • Distance: 500 m

Cape Foulwind short walk takes you from Tauranga Bay along a rocky headland to a viewpoint overlooking a New Zealand fur seal breeding colony.

Panels along the track tell stories of Māori history, sea voyages and early explorers.

Longer option: Seal colony viewpoint to Cape Foulwind lighthouse

  • Time: 1 hr
  • Distance: 2.9 km

From the seal colony, a longer walking track leads to Cape Foulwind lighthouse.

Return the same way or arrange transport from Cape Foulwind car park. 

Getting there

The nearest town is Westport (16 km).

To get to Tauranga Bay, follow SH67A Cape Foulwind Road for approximately 11 km and turn left onto Tauranga Bay Road and follow for another 5 km. When you get to the Tauranga Bay Stop Sign, turn right and follow the road until you reach the Seal Colony Carpark.

The longer option can also be accessed from the Cape Foulwind lighthouse car park (northern end).

Nature and conservation

The seal breeding season from November to February is the busiest time of year for New Zealand fur seal/kekeno.

History and culture

Cape Foulwind was named by Captain James Cook in 1770 after his vessel was blown off course by the prevailing westerly winds. 

Know before you go

What to expect:

  • Elevation change: +/- 7 m
  • Hazards
  • Rapidly changing weather – this is a coastal walk.
  • Significant fall hazards along walkway, keep to the track and keep children nearby.
  • Be prepared

Ensure you take:

  • Waterproof and windproof jacket
  • Hat
  • Gloves

Source: Department of Conservation

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