Information on Sandfly Bay track.
Sea lions, fur seals and beautiful dunes.
Track overview
- Distance: 550m return
- Track type: Walking and tramping
- Time: 30mins return
- Mountain biking: Not allowed
- Dogs: Dogs not allowed
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Seasonal restrictions: Part of Sandfly Bay Wildlife Refuge is closed from 1 November to 28 February inclusive to protect wildlife in the area. From the viewing platform, follow the signs to access the beach.
About this track
Starting at Seal Point Road carpark. Travel down the gravel track through open farmland to the lookout and information point. The lookout gives spectacular views of Sandfly Bay, Sandymount and the surrounding sand dune habitats. Continuing from the lookout, the trail drops steeply down to Sandfly Bay. Once at Sandfly Bay, keep your eyes peeled for native wildlife including: sea lions (Whakahao) and fur seals (Kekeno). View all seal and sea lions from a safe distance of at least 20m and do not disturb them. If you must pass sea lions on the beach, keep as much distance as possible and do not loiter.
Dunedin Wildlife Care Code statement.
Getting there
From Dunedin, drive down Highcliff Road. Turn right at Sandymount Road and right again at Seal Point Road and drive down to the end.
Know before you go
Sandfly Bay is home to yellow eyed penguins (Hoiho). If you spot a penguin, crouch down and try to remain hidden. To Yellow Eyed Penguins we look like scary predators and we don’t want to scare them away from their nests.
Fur seals (Kekeno) and sea lions (Whakahao) can be aggressive. It is important that you maintain a 10m distance from them and try not to encircle them.
Don’t leave valuables in the car because vehicles have been broken into.