See Rare Sea Lions in the Wild at Waipapa Point, New Zealand

Waipapa Point located in the Catlins area of the South Island of New Zealand, is a not to be missed chance to see rare New Zealand sea lions in the wild and in their natural habitat. There are plenty of opportunities to photogragh the sea lions either sunning themselves on the beach or lying low in the coastal tussock grass. And the best thing people is that the sea lion attraction is an entirely free New Zealand experience and comes without the crowds.

Rare NZ Sea Lions at Waipapa Beach, NZ

Other points of interest at Waipapa Point include the dramatic rocky shore and sandy beach, a lighthouse, and an optional 15 minute cemetery walk to the graves of 131 passengers and crew who perished in the SS Tararua shipwreck in 1881.

The Catlins area lies at the bottom of the South Island of New Zealand and is accessed by car along the “Southern Scenic Route.” It is becoming increasingly popular amongst New Zealand and overseas visitors alike but is still remote enough to be away from the crowds. The Catlins offers unique wildlife along with beaches, streams, lakes, waterfalls, caves and blow holes making it an ideal destination for the travellers looking for dramatic scenery and up close and personal wildlife encounters.

It is a short easy walk to the Waipapa Point Lighthouse

Sea Lions at Waipapa Point

At Waipapa Point visitors are able to view rare New Zealand sea lions in their natural habitat. The sea lions which are mostly male are present most of the year and can be found on the beach and among the coastal tussock. This species, endemic to New Zealand is in the process of recolonising after it was brought close to extinction in the 1800's due to the sealing industry.

Photographing NZ Sea Lions at Waipapa Point

The NZ sea lion is one of the rarest seals in the world with a total population of less than 10000.. It is easily distinguishable from the NZ fur seal as it is larger and has a blunt nose and short whiskers. The male sea lions are brown or black while females are a creamy grey colour. Mature males have a well-developed mane reaching to their shoulders.

New Zealand Sea Lion on the beach at Waipapa Point, NZ

Even though it is easy to get close to the sea lions at Waipapa Point always observe a respectful distance and remember these animals are wild. Do not try to touch them or use an object to poke them. The recommended safe distance from these 300 plus kilo creatures is about 20 metres. Despite their size they can move very quickly on land and are unpredictable if disturbed. They have been known to chase people.

No food of any kind should be given to these sea lions.

Where to View Sea Lions at Waipapa Point
If you look out onto the sandy beach from the sand dunes you are likely to spot sea lions. When I visited Waipapa Point recently (in April)  I came across two males frolicking on the beach close to the lighthouse.at about 1 pm in the afternoon. I saw another in the grass close to the track from the carpark to the lighthouse.

Even at 20 metres away I was easily able to photograph these beautiful creatures. Make sure your camera is set to its highest megapixel rating so that areas of your pictures can be enlarged without too much loss of definition..

New Zealand Sea Lion facts
New Zealand Sea Lion pamphlet

Waipapa Point Lighthouse

The Waipapa Point Lighthouse was the last wooden lighthouse to be built in New Zealand. It is also one of the few to have public access. The lighthouse has been restored and is currently listed as a Category 1 Historic Place with the Historic Places Trust,

Waipapa Point Lighthouse is minutes from the carpark

Waipapa Point is the site of New Zealand’s worst civilian shipwreck in 1881 when the steamship SS Tararua ran aground on the Waipapa Reef killing 131 of 151 passengers and crew. The Waipapa Point Lighthouse which was built following the catastrophe began operation in 1884, The last keepers were withdrawn in 1975 when the station became automated. The lighthouse is still in operation but it is not open for public entry,

SS Tararua Information Sign at Waipapa Point, NZ

Rocky Shore at Waipapa Point

The rocky shore at Waipapa Point is interesting if you have the time to explore. Please help to keep this wonderful place as it is by not removing shells and stones from the rock pools or beach.

Rocky Shore at Waipapa Point, NZ

Tararua Acre Cemetery

It is about 15 minutes from the signpost on the Waipapa Point Lighthouse road. to the Tararua Acre Cemetery where many of the shipwreck victims from the SS Tararau were laid to rest.. The walk is across private property which is closed during lambing (September/October).

What to Take

Warm wind proof jacket
Binoculars
Camera
Snacks and drinks
Sneakers / Cross Trainers if you intend to explore the rocky shore

Time

Allow at least an hour to explore Waipapa Point and photograph its sea lion visitors.

Waipapa Point Facilities

Carparking
Track leading to the lighthouse and around it
Toilet black and shelter
Visitor interpretation signs

Getting to Waipapa Point

Directions from Invercargill to Waipapa Point
If you are travelling from Invercargill allow about an hour driving time, Waipapa Point is likely to be your first stop after Fortrose accessed via the Gorge Road-Invercargill Highway and the Tokanui-Gorge Road Highway - about 40 minutes driving time.

From Fortrose take the Fortrose-Otara Road (6 kms) and then turn right to stay on Fortrose-Otara Road for a further 5.3 kms. Turn right onto Waipapa-Otara Road for a further 2.4 kms and finally continue on to Waipapa Lighthouse Road for just over 2 kms.
Please note that most of the road from Fortrose is unsealed.



Directions from Curio Bay to Waipapa Point
The journey from Curio Bay to Waipapa Point is about 25 kms and takes around 45 minutes to one hour to travel. The road is windy and is largely unsealed.

From Curio Bay head north on the Waikawa-Curio Bay Road for half a kilometre. Then turn left onto the Haldane-Curio Bay Road and continue for 9.2 kms. Continue on to the Tokanui-Haldane Road for about 1.3 kms past the turn off to Slope Point (well worth the 4 km side trip along Slope Point Road). Then continue straight onto the Otara-Haldane Road for another 10.1 kms. Next turn left onto the Waipapa-Otara Road and drive a further 2.4 kms before finally continuing onto the Waipapa Lighthouse Road for 2.1 kms.



Related Links
Selection of Southland's Short Walks Brochure
Waipapa Point Lighthouse
DOC Catlins Brochure - Nugget Point to Waipapa Point
Southern Scenic Route - A Travellers Guide
DOC NZ Sea Lion Facts
New Zealand Sea Lion Pamphlet

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Budget Travellers Day Trip Guide to Rottnest Island Western Australia

A visit to Rottnest Island is one of the must see attractions on any visit to Perth, Western Australia but getting there and sightseeing on the island can be costly. Use this handy guide to a day trip to Rottnest Island for budget travellers if you want to make the most of Rottnest Island's unique wildlife and inviting beaches and bays and not break the bank.

Detailed Map of Rottnest Island

Getting to Rottnest Island

Rottnest Island or "Rotto" as the locals call it lies just 18 kilometres off the coast of Perth and is easily accessed from both Perth and Freemantle by a short ferry ride. Rottnest Express has ferries departing from Pier 2 Barrack Street Jetty in Perth, Northport Terminal in North Freemantle and C Shed Victoria Quay,

Rottnest Express Ferry to Rottnest Island from Freemantle

Ferry costs to Rottnest Island can be expensive. It is cheaper to depart from Freemantle rather than Perth as it is the shorter journey of the two, so if you can, combine your trip to Rottnest with a visit to Freemantle. Departing from Perth makes for a longer day which means less time on Rottnest.

One of the ways to make substantial savings on ferry crossings is to book in advance. During the summer months Rottnest Express offer 15% discount for booking 10 days in advance and 20% discount for booking 20 days in advance. Rottnest Fast Ferries also operate a day return service but prices are considerably higher than Rottnest Express.

Catch the Ferry to Rottnest Island - A Short Trip from Perth and Freemantle

Rottnest Express offer an all day return adult fare from Freemantle for around $50. If you are able to travel on a Tuesday, Rottnest Express offers a same day return fare for $39 until the end of October 2015. Rottnest Express also offers deals from time to time and special summer fares so make sure you check out their deals page before you book.

Buying Food and Dining Out on Rottnest Island

You can save money by packing a picnic lunch and heading to one of the 63 beaches and bays for the day. If you would rather buy food on Rottnest then Subway (located in the Thomson Bay Mall) probably offers the best value for money at around $5-6 for a 6 inch sub.

Rottnest Island Dome Restaurant

If you prefer to eat at a restaurant then you could try Aristos for yummy fish and chips along with great views out onto the waterfront for around $20 per head or you can get cafe style food at Dome that won't break the bank. There is also a bakery and an icecream palour on Rottnest.

Make sure that you take as much water and drinks with you as you can carry. It can get very hot on Rottnest and there is not a lot of shade in many places. Drinks on the island can be expensive. A small bottle of water, for instance, will set you back $4.00.

Getting Around on Rottnest Island

Bus Service on Rottnest Island
There is a free shuttle bus until 8 pm that operates between the main accommodation areas on Rottnest Island. It departs from the main bus stop in the Thomson Bay Settlement and travels to Geordie Bay Store for Geordie, Fay's and Longreach Bays.

For views of the whole island take the Rottnest Island Explorer Bus Service for around $20 or less if you have a pensioner or student concession card. Your ticket entitles you to hop on and off the bus as much as you like over the whole day affording you plenty of opportunity to visit several of the more popular beaches and bays on Rottnest Island such as Pinky Beach and Salmon Bay.

The journey takes approximately 45 minutes and will give you many spectacular views of some of the best beaches that Rottnest Island has to offer. For the best views be sure to sit on the left hand side. Buses depart from the main bus stop in the Thomson Bay Settlement. Tickets can be purchased at the Rottnest Island Visitor Centre.

Rottnest Island Explorer Bus Route

Walking Around Rottnest Island

Don't shell out for a bus or tour unless you want to take in the whole island. Walking the 24 kilometres or 15 miles around Rottnest Island won't cost you a cent. Remember though that to visit the secluded beaches and bays you will need to add further distance to the whole trip.

Rottnest Island View

In hot weather walking the whole island is not always an option except for the superfit. Fortunately there are several very good beaches such as the Basin that are only a few kilometres away from the main jetty and easily accessed on foot (allow about 30 minutes). These are perfect for relaxing and swimming.

The Basin Beach, Rottnest Island

There are lots of paths and trails all around Rottnest Island.  The new Wadjemup Trail walk offers visitors access to areas to explore on Rottnest away from bitumen roads such as Bickley Bay (18 kms return) and The Lakes section taking in Little Parakeet Bay (8 kms return).  You can now walk from Oliver Hill to Wadjemup Lighthouse on the Salmon Bay Walk. More details about the Wadjemup Trail

Walk Close to Settlement Rottnest Island

Cycling Around Rottnest Island
Cycling around Rottnest Island offers a good alternative to walking and means you can cover more distance. If you already own a bike or can borrow one you can easily get around Rottnest. Be aware though that Rottnest Island is hilly in some places and a good level of fitness is needed particularly if you are cycling in hot weather.

You can also hire bikes directly on Rottnest Island for the day for under $30 for a multi-geared bike. Couples may like to consider a tandem at around $45 against $60 for the hire of two cycles. Pedal and Flipper also offer snorkel gear hire and electric bike hire ($60 full day) on Rottnest Island.  For only a little more you can hire a bike from Rottnest Express and ride it straight off the jetty.

Hire a Bike from Rottnest Express and Ride it off the Main Jetty

There is a free suggested cycle route of Rottnest Island on MapMyRide which is just short of 22 kilometres if you are serious about making a loop of the island.

Hire a Bicycle to Get Around Rottnest Island

Where to Find Quokkas on Rottnest

Quokkas are all over the island but you won't necessarily see many particularly on hot days unless you look for them. Quokkas are actually nocturnal creatures but constant feeding of the quokkas despite warnings has lead these tiny marsupials to become more active during the day especially in the morning and evenings.

Quokkas on Rottnest Island

Even in the heat of the day you will find quokkas just off the boardwalk at the end of the Garden Lake walk trail. Take the informative free guided Quokka tour (from the Salt Store) to learn more about these unique animals and the history of the island.

Free Quokka Tour on Rottnest Island

Free Tours on Rottnest Island

Apart from the daily free Quokka tour there are a range of free tours offered on Rottnest Island. Some examples of free tours available are:  Reefs Wrecks and Daring Sailors Discovery Walk
Vlamingh Lookout and Salt Lakes Walk, History of the Settlement Walk. Tours depart from outside the Salt Store. List of free tours of Rottnest Island

Salt Store 1868 Rottnest Island

What to Take on a Rottnest Island Day Trip

Day Pack
Water and drinks
Picnic lunch and snacks
Sun hat
Sunscreen
Sun Shelter
Bathers or swimming costume and towel
Snorkel and Flippers
Bike


Useful Rottnest Island Links
Experience Perth Rottnest Island
RottnestIsland.com
Trip Advisor Rottnest Island

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An Unfortgettable Day Whale Watching at Hervey Bay, Queensland, Australia

Hervey Bay is a great place to have a whale watching experience and you are more or less guaranteed to see whales in the season which runs from about late April to the end of October.  Yes whales watching tours are not cheap but it really is worth the trip.  If you are close to Hervey Bay make sure don't miss out on your chance to see humpback whales at Hervey Bay.

Hervey Bay is a small seaside town in the sunshine state of Queensland, Australia sometimes coined the "Whale Watching Capital of the World."  Every year humpback whales migrate from the Antarctic to warmer waters to give birth to their calves, arriving in Hervey Bay from late July until early November. 

Hervey Bay Whale Watching is Just Four Hours from Brisbane

Whale watching at Hervey Bay was an unforgettable experience for me. I was lucky enough to watch these beautiful creatures playing and having fun in the water. It truly was a privilege.  Even though the whale watching tour I took wasn't perfect in many ways it didn't matter as the whales were stunning.

Humpback Whale Breach, Hervey Bay, Australia

There are a number of whale watching tours departing from Hervey Bay from full day to half day experiences. Prices range from $110 for a half day to about $130 for a full day which usually includes a buffet lunch.  Other tour inclusions are free wifi, morning and afternoon tea and a variety of viewing platforms and options,

Whale Watching at Hervey Bay - The Back of the Boat is a Good Place to Take Photos

I went with Tasman Venture Whale Watch Tours on a weekday afternoon tour of around four hours in late October. The commentary was good and the afternoon tea pretty average. I appreciated the complimentary DVD. One advantage of the afternoon tour was the added bonus of lovely afternoon light and a pink tinged sky on the return journey.

Afternoon Whale Watching Tour from Hervey Bay Affords Good Light for Photos 

On the downside the Tasman Venture boat was very crowded on my tour and it was hard to get a good position to take photographs at times, which was disappointing. Also there is no monitoring of viewing platforms which potentially turned it into a bit of a bumfight once whales were in sight. If I were to do it over I would definitely go on a tour with smaller numbers.

Be prepared to not necessarily see a lot of whales. Sightings are governed by luck, knowledgeable crews and time of year. As it was near the end of the season when I went, whale sightings were limited. We did see a mother and calf frolicking in the water and later saw an adult male and that was it.  More than enough though and very exciting.

Waiting for Whales to Appear on Whale Watching Tour

Take a good book to read as there can be a bit of waiting around for the whales to appear. While you wait listen to whale song and learn a bit about the life cycle and habits of the humpback whale. Once the whales appear it makes the wait totally worth it.

Humpback Whale Breach Hervey Bay Whale Watching Tour

Make sure your camera or phone is set to the highest megapixel setting to ensure that you can enlarge your best photos or just crop part of them without losing quality. A humpback whale breaching makes for a spectacular shot. Try to take close ups of the whales too. If you are in luck a whale will approach the boat or "mug" it as it is often called. Sometimes some of the best photos of whales are the detail shots.

Humpback Whale Close Up Shot of Flippers, Hervey Bay Whale Watching

The boat hugged the coastline of Fraser Island affording excellent views both ways on my whale watching tour. It is worthwhile packing binoculars, if you have them, for any wildlife viewing opportunities and because whales can sometimes be quite far away.  One of the highlights of this trip for me was the chance spotting of a wild dingo roaming the Fraser Island beach.

Fraser Island Views from the Boat on the Hervey Bay Whale Watching Tour

Back at the Hervey Bay Marina it was already dusk.  I took the opportunity to take some photos of moored boats. As it was dinner time I rounded off the day with a helping of fresh fish and chips which were absolutely beautiful and worth sampling whether you are from another part of Australia or an overseas visitor.

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Hervey Bay Marina Entrance

Moored Boats at Hervey Bay Marina, Queensland

Useful Links

Discover Hervey Bay Whale Watching Tours

Hervey Bay on Wikipedia

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