Clutha District Travel Guide

Otago

A coastal landscape with rocky outcrops and a lighthouse on a cliff.
A coastal path leading to a lighthouse on a grassy hill with the ocean and rocky outcrops in the background.
A natural rock formation with a water channel and a clear sky visible through an opening.
A coastal path leading to a lighthouse on a grassy cliff, surrounded by the ocean and rocky outcrops.
A lighthouse on a rocky cliff overlooking the ocean.

Check out the east coast of New Zealand’s Southern Island where the rugged splendour of Clutha’s many landscapes are set to impress.

This unspoiled destination is home to the wonderful wildlife that enjoy the rolling hills and mountains, rocky shores and white-sand beaches of the area. Catch the birdsong of some of the rarest birds of the South, or the sea lions, dolphins and penguins by the sea. Clutha also celebrates its storied gold-mining heritage. The settler spirit burns bright in Lawrence, the site of one of the world’s largest gold rushes.

Popular cities in Clutha District

A coastal landscape with a lighthouse on a green hill, a winding path, and rocky outcrops in the sea.
Kaka Point
Known for Sea, Beaches and Bars
At the northern tip of the Catlins, this sleepy coastal town is surrounded by bushland, walking tracks and classic surf breaks.

Reasons to visit

  • Kaka Point Scenic Reserve
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A multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery and moss-covered rocks.
Catlins Forest Park
Known for Natural parks
Get away to Catlins Forest Park! Enjoy the parks and more.

Reasons to visit

  • McLean Falls
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A lighthouse on a hill with a sea view.
Ahuriri Flat
Known for Beaches and Monuments
Trip time! Discover the beaches and monuments in Ahuriri Flat.

Reasons to visit

  • Nugget Point Lighthouse
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A river flowing through a rocky canyon with autumn-colored trees.
Balclutha
Known for Friendly people
Venture to Kaka Point Beach and Nugget Point Lighthouse—just two of the sights around Balclutha.
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A multi-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.
Owaka
Explore the history of the Catlins and base yourself in this pioneer settlement within close proximity of its waterfalls, beaches and forests.
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A coastal landscape with a sandy beach, ocean waves, grassy hills, and a distant island.
Papatowai
Check out Purakaunui Falls and Jack's Blowhole—just a couple of the sights around Papatowai.
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Stay near popular Clutha District attractions

A coastal landscape with a lighthouse on a green hill, a winding path, and rocky outcrops in the sea.

Nugget Point Lighthouse

9.8/10 (75 reviews)
Sitting high above the water’s edge, this historic lighthouse has been a fixture of the Catlins for more than a century.
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