11 October 2026
Mainly fine, the odd shower from late afternoon. Southwesterlies for a time afternoon and early evening.
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1 / 3Dunedin area
Mapoutahi Track
Walk to Mapoutahi Pā along a sandy beach in Purakaunui Bay.
Distance
3 km
Walking time
45 min
Difficulty
Easy
Dogs
On-lead only
Wheelchair access
Not marked friendly
Current status
Alerts and track conditions
No active alerts found. Conditions can still change, so check again before leaving.
Weather outlook
Dunedin forecast
Issued 11 Oct 2026, 4:35 pm
12 October 2026
Morning cloud and possible fog, then fine. Low cloud returning about the coast at night affecting the Otago Peninsula. Northerlies, dying out for a time in the afternoon and evening.
13 October 2026
Partly cloudy, with a period of rain in the afternoon and evening. Northwesterlies, turning southerly in the evening.
14 October 2026
Occasional rain, persistent with heavy falls in the morning. Northeasterlies, dying out in the morning.
15 October 2026
Showers, some heavy, easing in the afternoon. Snow lowering to 600 metres in the morning. Southwesterlies.
Regional guidance only; elevation and terrain can produce different conditions.
Explore the area
Mapoutahi Track on the map
See the full route on the map
Explore the track route and surrounding area before you set out.
About Mapoutahi Track
The track begins by following a 4WD track through a pine forest. Steep cliffs appear on the left as the track becomes sandy. After about 1km, a turning bay for 4WD vehicles appears and a sign points to the left to show the way to the pā site. Pūrākaunui Bay is worth enjoying, as it is a long sandy beach with interesting views towards Potato Point. The pā juts out into the sea like an island. At low tide, the cliffs on the side of the pā are worth exploring as they are full of intertidal life. The path onto the Pā is difficult to find. A rope swing hangs down by an area that can be climbed up, but the proper path is further round to the left. Steps with a handrail have been installed for easier access. It is possible to walk across Canoe Beach from here. Otherwise the path climbs up to a magnificent viewing platform at the top. 360 degree views of this spectacular area of Otago can be seen.
Essential information for Mapoutahi Track
There are no toilets or water facilities on this track. The area has significant biological and cultural significance. Please respect the environment.
Getting there for Mapoutahi Track
From Pūrākaunui Road, turn left and head down the steep Pūrākaunui School Road. The road crosses a causeway and heads round the western edge of the Pūrākaunui Inlet. There is a car park on the right by the pine forest. Four-wheel drive vehicles will be able to continue along the road to a carpark further down. Otherwise it is about a 20 minute walk down the road to the beach. Use this location in Google Maps to find your way there.
Helpful resources
We encourage you to continue gaining the skills and knowledge required for a safe trip. The NZ Mountain Safety Council has lots of free resources and information you can use. These can be accessed via www.mountainsafety.org.nz . We recommend trying these online learning tools: Trip Planning Tramping / field Skills Basic Navigation River Safety Additionally, check out the range of helpful videos available from the NZ Mountain Safety Council YouTube channel .
Dog access for Mapoutahi Track
Dogs on a leash only.
Before you walk Mapoutahi Track
Track information, access and weather can change. Confirm current alerts and land-manager information close to departure, tell someone your plans, and carry equipment appropriate for the route and conditions.