Pūrākaunui Bay (Catlins Cycling Route)

Pūrākaunui Bay is one of the best kept secrets in the Catlins. With this ride you get the best the district can offer you; Beach, Bush, Wildlife and Rural vistas.

Distance - 36km loop

Surface conditions – The road is sealed for 9km from Ōwaka to the turn off at Long Point Road. The balance of the trip is on loose gravel.

Gradient – The sealed section of this ride, from Ōwaka to the turn off at Long Point Road, is flat. There is a climb up Long Point Road (11-12km mark) with a decline into Pūrākaunui Bay. Elevation gain: 246m.

Directions - From the Ōwaka public carpark head down Waikawa Street, exiting town on the Papatowai Highway towards the Catlins Estuary. After 7km you will reach the bridge at the head of the estuary and turn left onto Pūrākaunui Falls Road. Continue on the sealed road for 4.5km, turning onto Long Point Road. Travel for 3.5km until the road forks, taking Pūrākaunui Bay Road for the last 3km. Well worth the ride.