Roaring Bay | Yellow-Eyed Penguin Hide (Hoiho)

A trip to The Catlins wouldn’t be complete without getting a view of one of the world’s rarest penguins - the yellow-eyed/hoiho. Pack your binoculars to spot these little cuties at the public-viewing hide just down the road from the iconic Nugget Point Lighthouse.

Situated in Roaring Bay, the hoiho are usually seen at dawn and dusk - so pack a thermos and settle in - they are worth the wait. Sea lions and seals can also be seen basking and foraging for food on the rocky beach below. Complete your day with a wander out to the memorable Nugget Point or explore the rest of the 100-kilometre Catlins for more golden beaches, lush rainforest and jaw-dropping waterfalls.

It’s all here waiting to be discovered with our Catlins Top 10 things to do.