Discover Scenic Pūrākaunui Bay
Pūrākaunui Bay in the Catlins combines remote coastal beauty with accessible camping. This bay within the Pūrākaunui Bay Scenic Reserve features towering cliffs that served as a filming location for The Chronicles of Narnia, a 500-metre beach, and native forest that meets the sand.
Exploring the Bay
The bay's northern headland rises 200 metres above the water, creating dramatic coastal scenery. These cliffs dominate the southern side of the beach, while the northern shore slopes more gently, with rātā trees growing along the southern end, blooming bright red in December and January.
The Pūrākaunui River flows across the beach, separating the campsite from the main beach. At low tide, the river becomes a shallow stream easy to cross on foot. At other times, expect knee-deep water. The large grassed campsite sits above the river mouth with views across the bay, providing one of the South Island's most scenic yet accessible remote camping experiences.
Pakake (New Zealand sea lions) frequently visit the river mouth and beach, so maintain a safe distance of at least 20 metres when they are present. As teh tide retreats, explore the rockpools at both ends of the beach.
A Top Surfing Location
Surfers know Pūrākaunui Bay as PK, short for "pumping kegs," according to Surf Seekers NZ. The bay attracts experienced surfers when conditions align, with consistent left and right breaks.
The Meaning of the Name
The name Pūrākaunui translates to "a big pile of sticks". While a similarly named beach near Dunedin has historical significance related to conflict, the piles referring to bodies, no evidence connects that violent history to this stunning Catlins location.
Getting There
From Owaka, drive 7 km southeast on the Southern Scenic Route towards Papatowai, passing Catlins Lake. Turn onto Pūrākaunui Falls Road. After 5 km, before reaching the falls car park, turn south onto gravel Long Point Road. Continue southeast for 4 km, then turn onto gravel Pūrākaunui Bay Road for the final 3 km to the beach. The narrow, winding gravel roads require careful driving, but the journey takes approximately 25 minutes from Owaka.
Nearby beaches include Jacks Bay to the northeast and Helena Falls Beach and Tahakopa Bay to the west. Pūrākaunui Falls can be found further along Pūrākaunui Falls Road.
