Okarito Lagoon is New Zealand's largest unmodified wetland. A coastal lagoon, it is 130 kms south of Hokitika, covering an area of about 12km.
About
Turn onto Forks/Okarito Road where signposted off State Highway 6 and it is a 10km drive to the coast.
The lagoon is home of many species of wading birds, including the extremely rare Kotuku (Eastern Great Egret).
Very near Okarito is Kotuku's only New Zealand breeding area.
At the southern end of the lagoon is the small beach settlement of Okarito.
Bird watching, eco-tours and kayak tours of the lagoon are available, and there are a number of local hikes.
The rarest species of kiwi, the Okarito Kiwi - or Rowi - is also found near the town of Okarito in a DOC managed kiwi sanctuary.
Location
Okarito 7886, New ZealandRelated listings
Franz Josef Top 10 Holiday Park
Franz Josef TOP 10 Holiday Park is an ideal base for exploring Glacier Country.
Learn moreMatheson Cafe & Reflectionz Gifts & Gallery
Lake Matheson, famous for its picture perfect reflections of Mount Cook & superb views of Fox Glacier. Visit our award winning café & unique gift gallery adjacent to the walkway. Don't miss this incredible location.
Learn more58 On Cron Motel
We are ideally situated just a short stroll into the main village business hub, surrounded by native bush and majestic mountains, providing privacy for guests in a tranquil, peaceful relaxing setting.
Learn moreAlpine Glacier Motel, Franz Josef
Spacious, ground floor and down stairs studios and family units with spectacular alpine and rainforest views.
Learn moreAir Safaris Franz Josef
Our Grand Traverse scenic flight from Franz Josef provides the best way to experience this glacial environment in its entirety.
Learn moreGlacier Country Helicopters Ltd.
Glacier Country Helicopters is a local, family owned and operated company in Franz Josef offering scenic glacier flights and much more in our incredible backyard.
Learn moreMonsoon Bar
Enjoy a pre-dinner drink on the decks or cosy up in front of the fireplace before settling in for a relaxed dining experience at Monsoon bar & restaurant.
Learn moreGlacier Country Scenic Flights
The best way to experience the New Zealand glaciers is on a scenic helicopter flight with Glacier Country Scenic flights.
Learn more