Nugget Point, a breathtaking natural wonder on the south coast of New Zealand, attracts visitors with its rugged beauty and stunning scenery. The lighthouse at the top of the cliff and the spectacular rock formations jutting out of the ocean like ‘golden nuggets’ make this place a unique destination that showcases nature in its most pristine form.
Location and accessibility
Nugget Point is located on the Catlins Coast, a remote and less visited part of New Zealand’s South Island. The region is renowned for its unspoilt nature, rugged coastline and abundant wildlife. The Point is located about 80 kilometres west of Invercargill and is easily accessible via State Highway 1 and Nugget Point Road. The final section of the drive follows a narrow, winding road to a car park near the lighthouse. The views of the dramatic cliffs and wild ocean are spectacular throughout the drive, adding to the anticipation of your destination.
History of the Nugget Point lighthouse
Nugget Point Lighthouse was built in 1869 and is the region’s most prominent landmark. Perched on a cliff about 150 metres above the sea, it was built to warn ships of the dangerous rocks and currents on the south coast. Over the years the lighthouse has played an important role in seafaring and is a symbol of the hard work and challenges faced by the first settlers in this rugged region of New Zealand. Today the lighthouse is a popular photo opportunity and offers a fantastic view of the dramatic coastal landscape.
The lighthouse is open to visitors but not directly accessible. There is a short path through the bush and along the cliffs. From here you have an impressive view of the lighthouse and the surrounding cliffs washed by the Pacific waves. On a clear day you can also see the fjords to the south in the distance.
The ‘Nuggets’ – Rock formations in the ocean
The ‘Nuggets’ are a collection of rocky islands that rise out of the sea off the coast of Nugget Point. These rocks look like golden nuggets jutting out of the water and give the place its unmistakable charm. They are particularly stunning at sunset, when the warm light bathes the formations in a magical golden glow.
As well as being a spectacular sight, the nuggets are an important wildlife observation point. They are a favourite spot for seabirds such as albatrosses, which have their breeding colonies here. The area around Nugget Point is a birdwatcher’s and nature lover’s paradise.
Stargazing
One of the unique experiences at Nugget Point is stargazing. Its remote location and low light smog make it an ideal destination for stargazing. On a clear night you can enjoy a spectacular view of the southern night sky with its constellations, the Magellanic Clouds and the Milky Way.
The place is close to the Te Anau Dark Sky Reserve, one of the world’s best places for astronomy. The region has been declared an official Dark Sky Reserve due to its exceptionally clear skies and low light pollution. This means that visitors can experience the night sky in all its glory. In particular, the view of the southern sky with the fascinating Southern Cross attracts stargazers from all over the world.
Hikes and nature experiences
For nature lovers, there are many walks around Nugget Point that offer unforgettable views of the coastline and sea. The most famous is the walk to the lighthouse, but the southern section of the Southern Scenic Route also offers spectacular views and wild, unspoilt terrain.
For more adventurous hikers, the Catlins River Walk takes you through the region’s rainforest and past spectacular waterfalls. This walk is particularly popular with nature lovers and photographers as it offers the opportunity to experience the region in all its beauty.
Nugget Point is an exceptional destination for travellers who want to experience unspoilt nature and wild, untamed New Zealand. With its impressive lighthouse, spectacular rock formations, abundant wildlife and unforgettable stargazing, this place offers a variety of experiences for nature lovers, adventurers and history buffs. Visitors will be rewarded with breathtaking views, unique experiences and memories that will stay with them long after the trip.
