Otago backwater wonderlands

Birders, twitchers, bird-watchers – call them what you will but this dedicated pack shares a common goal – to track down and sight some of our most special feathered friends. Whether you’re one of the bunch or just a bird-lover in your spare time, Otago offers some of the best kept secrets where bird-watching is concerned – so let us take you there!

Sinclair Wetlands

Just 45km south of Dunedin, this protected area of bird habitat nestles in a wetland basin criss-crossed with stunning walking trails, and with an education centre at its heart. Dotted with shallow pools and grass-fringed channels sporting myriad different carrexes, the shallow waters are home to the long finned eel, whitebait and koura (native crayfish). Iridescent dragonflies flit above the trickling waterways where shy fern birds can be readily heard along with the raucous calls of herons. Sightings have also been recorded of the rare bittern and marsh crake.

With at least 46 recorded bird species in the area, including paradise shelducks, grey teal and scaup as well as bush birds such as the tui and falcon, this extensive wetlands is the place to bring binoculars and a picnic, and spend the day. To reach Sinclair Wetlands from Dunedin, take highway 1 south for approximately 40km before turning right onto the Henley-Berwick Road from where signs can be followed.

Titri Creek Track

A treat is in store for those who discover the pretty wetland walkway on the road between Waihola and Titri (about 25km south of Dunedin). Bridged, and with easily accessible raised walkways, this 10 minute, flat walking track leads through spectacular marsh to a stunning viewing platform. Come armed with insect repellent, and visit this treasure of a site on a warm evening when the wetlands grasses are gently stirring and moths, butterflies and birdcalls assail the senses. With views to large sections of open water, watch out for gentle swans, shags and herons, and be sure to listen for the fernbird. This walk affords plenty of views of raupo, the attractive marsh plant which provided Maori with thatching for roofs and storehouses, and down for bedding. If you have children with you on your travels, they will be especially enchanted by this special part of the country.

Lake Waihola

At the heart of the most significant waterfowl habitat in Otago, the manicured lake frontage and attractive holiday park of the village of Waihola belies its wild, birdie backdrop. Connected to a vast wetland habitat by meandering channels, lagoons and backwater marshes, the region is of national importance and a refuge for many endangered species of bird. The lake’s shallow waters are moderately tidal and can be best explored by boat (canoes are available to those staying at the Lake Waihola Holiday Park). Skirt the lake edges as you wend your way north into the more marshy regions of this magnificent waterway and keep your eyes peeled for a host of waterfowl. The skeletal bones of dead willows are the work of the lake’s guardians who have undertaken the removal of this problematic exotic species.

Lake Tuakitoto

Surely one of the south’s best kept secrets, demure and seldom-visited Lake Tuakitoto is a bird-lover’s treat waiting to be discovered. The smallest of South Otago’s three main lakes, it lies in a shallow depression 5km from Balclutha (take signposts to Kaitangata then head along Lakeside Road) and is accessible by a 15km (3hr) return walking and cycling trail. With frequent views of open water, it pays to take a snack so you can sit, watch and listen for birdlife. Sightings of graceful swans and cheeky pukeko are not uncommon while birders-in-the-know will be delighted with sightings of rarer fauna.