Hector's dolphin leaping, Porpoise Bay
Wildlife, including Hector's dolphins, yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals and sea lions, can be found at Curio and Porpoise bays. The area also contains the fossilised remains of an ancient forest and has an interesting history.
You can view the wildlife in the area and explore the fossil forest at low tide. Porpoise Bay with its beautiful sandy beach is popular for swimming and surfing.
There is no DOC accommodation in the area, but there is a sheltered campsite situated on South Head, the headland separating Curio Bay from Porpoise Bay.
Find out how to get there and view a map of the area. Do not feed or go near dolphins, keep dogs clear of wildlife and be careful of approaching seals and sea lions too closely.
The Catlins Highway section of the Southern Scenic Route takes in the Catlins coastline and large tracts of native forest. Attractions include beaches, waterfalls and caves, wildlife viewing and the fossil forest at Curio Bay.
One of the smallest marine dolphins in the world, Hector’s dolphins grow no more than 1.5 m in length.
Watch this video to find out where you can sleep-over with your locals! The Catlins in Southland is teeming with native life, and you can stay at Curio Bay campground.
Curio Bay/Porpoise Bay brochure (PDF, 494K)
Southern Scenic Route brochure (PDF, 445K)
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New Zealand topographic maps are available from DOC Visitor Centres
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Check, Clean, Dry all items before entering, and when moving between, waterways.
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Always contact the nearest visitor centre for the latest information about facilities and conditions.
