Adventure
Cape Foulwind Walkway
About
A seal colony, a lighthouse and panoramic views of mountains and coastline feature on this spectacular coastal walkway. With the beach close by as well it's a good option for children.






More information
Cape Foulwind is a prominent headland on the West Coast of New Zealand's South Island, overlooking the Tasman Sea. It is located 16 kilometres west of the town of Westport.
It was previously named Rocky Cape by Abel Tasman, the first European to visit it, in 1642. In 1770 it was named Cape Foulwind by Captain James Cook after his vessel was blown off course by the prevailing westerly winds.
- New Zealand fur seal/kekeno breeding colony
- Panoramic views of mountains and coastline
- Cape Foulwind lighthouse
3.4 km one way
Fitness required: Low to moderate
Gradient: Flat and undulating
1 hr 15 min one way Easiest: Short walk
Easy: Walking track
The busiest time for fur seals is November to February.
Shorter option: Tauranga Bay carpark to seal colony viewpoint
Time: 15 min
Distance: 500 m
Cape Foulwind short walk takes you from Tauranga Bay along a rocky headland to a viewpoint overlooking a New Zealand fur seal breeding colony.
Panels along the track tell stories of Māori history, sea voyages and early explorers.
Longer option: Seal colony viewpoint to Cape Foulwind lighthouse
Time: 1 hr
Distance: 2.9 km
From the seal colony, a longer walking track leads to Cape Foulwind lighthouse.
Return the same way or arrange transport from Cape Foulwind car park.
Getting there:
The nearest town is Westport (16 km).
To get to Tauranga Bay, follow SH67A Cape Foulwind Road for approximately 11 km and turn left onto Tauranga Bay Road and follow for another 5 km. When you get to the Tauranga Bay Stop Sign, turn right and follow the road until you reach the Seal Colony Carpark.
The longer option can also be accessed from the Cape Foulwind lighthouse car park (northern end).
What to expect:
Elevation change: +/- 70 m
Hazards
Rapidly changing weather – this is a coastal walk.
Significant fall hazards along walkway, keep to the track and keep children nearby.
Be prepared
Ensure you take waterproof and windproof jacket, hat and gloves.
Directions
Get directions
Related Listings
Westport and Karamea
See & Do

Tucked away in a corner of Kahurangi National Park, The Oparara has a magic all of its own, born of a million years of undisturbed isolation.
Learn more
Westport and Karamea
See & Do

Sundog Karamea Surf and SUPs is a gateway to view the beautiful Karamea region from the water, while riding SUPs and learning to surf. Lessons or hire, it's up to you.
Learn more
Westport and Karamea
Accommodation

Welcome to Bazil's Hostel & Surf School on the stunning West Coast, your gateway to hiking, kayaking, surfing, mountain biking and caving adventures. Centrally located in town, close to bars, shops and cafés.
Learn more
Westport and Karamea
See & Do

The 85km-long Old Ghost Road traverses majestic native forest, open tussock tops, river flats and forgotten valleys, providing days of adventure and spectacular huts for mountain bikers and trampers.
Learn more
Westport and Karamea
Towns, Places & Info centres

Karamea is a secluded haven, snuggled into the warm northwest corner of the South Island. Long empty beaches, river estuaries, incredible granite and limestone formations.
Learn more
Westport and Karamea
Accommodation

Luxury ‘island style’ accommodation located on the sea front at Tauranga Bay, 16 kms from Westport and 50 kms from Punakaiki.