Paddling near Awarua Plains, Southland

Awarua Plains sits in the flat, wind-swept lowlands of Southland, flanked by significant wetland and estuarine systems. The standout paddling destination nearby is Waituna Lagoon, a large coastal lagoon within the Awarua-Waituna Wetlands, where kayaks and small boats can explore the margins when the outlet is closed to the sea or at high tide. Awarua Bay adds estuarine paddling in a remote, wildlife-rich setting.