An iconic NZ walk returns with fossils, tunnels and secret beaches

Discover the natural beauty along Dunedin’s iconic Tunnel Beach track.

When it comes to striking scenery, no one could accuse New Zealand of not delivering. And while warm, white sand beaches may not be the domain of our closest neighbour, sandstone cliffs, rock arches and beach caves definitely are. And you can see them all on Dunedin‘s iconic Tunnel Beach track, now officially reopened.

What makes the Tunnel Beach track so spectacular?

Walk below striking sandstone cliff walls. (Image: Dunedin NZ)

The first natural feature that will strike walkers is the dramatic sandstone coastline. The striking shape of which was carved over centuries by the waves and winds of the Southern Ocean. At the end of the track, this culminates in a hand-carved rock tunnel that this beach is named after.

Built in the 1870s by a local landowner seeking to provide his family with access to the secluded beach on the other side, the tunnel still offers a unique, sheltered, and public passage through the sandstone cliffs to this secret cove (although swimming isn’t recommended due to strong currents).

Shell fragments and small fossils can be spotted as you pass through the tunnel – if you are attentive. Brachiopod shells or echinoderm (sea urchin) and the bones of an extinct whale have all been found here.

The track

The 2.6-kilometre walk packs a big punch. (Image: Dunedin NZ)

Short (in fact just 2.6-kilometre return via the same track), but mighty (and mighty steep), the fenced track will take walkers down 150 metres from the car park to sea level quite quickly. Stop along the way at several viewpoints for vistas of your coastal surrounds.

While the path is graded as easy, it’s best to conserve some energy for the walk back up to your car. After the descent, discover this rocky coastline up close.

The details:

Discover a secret beach. (Image: Dunedin NZ)

Location: Tunnel Beach, about 11-minutes’ drive from Dunedin’s city centre.
Difficulty: Easy, but best to enjoy around low tide.
Getting there: There is a car park at the seaward end of Green Island Bush Road, off Blackhead Road. Or, opt for public transport from Dunedin to the start of the track.
Facilities: Toilets are available in the car park.
Website: Check the Parks & Recreation website for more details.