Discovering the Tranquil Beauty of Rakatu Wetlands
Experience the serene beauty and diverse wildlife of Rakatu Wetlands, a hidden gem in New Zealand's South Island ideal for nature lovers and birdwatching.
Nestled in the heart of New Zealand's South Island, Rakatu Wetlands offers visitors a serene escape into nature. This stunning wetland area showcases a rich variety of flora and fauna, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. Whether you're strolling along the scenic paths or immersing yourself in the tranquility of the wetlands, Rakatu promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
A brief summary to Rakatu Wetlands
- 146 Jericho Rd, Blackmount, 9679, NZ
- +6432159117
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Bring a pair of binoculars to enhance your birdwatching experience.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes as the wetlands are best explored on foot.
- Check for any guided tours or educational programs available during your visit.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are traveling by car from Te Anau, head southwest on State Highway 94 toward Milford Sound. After approximately 55 kilometers, turn right onto Blackmount Road. Continue on Blackmount Road for about 20 kilometers until you reach Jericho Road. Turn left onto Jericho Road, and after a short drive, you will find the Rakatu Wetlands at 146 Jericho Road, Blackmount 9679. There is no entry fee for visiting the wetlands.
-
Public Transportation
To reach Rakatu Wetlands using public transport, take a bus from Te Anau to Blackmount. Check the local bus schedule for availability, as services may be limited. Once you arrive in Blackmount, it is advisable to arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to take you the final 6 kilometers to Rakatu Wetlands at 146 Jericho Road. Make sure to confirm the fare with the taxi driver before starting your journey.
-
Taxi or Rideshare
If you are already in Blackmount, or if public transportation doesn't align with your schedule, consider using a taxi or a rideshare service to reach Rakatu Wetlands. Simply provide the driver with the address: 146 Jericho Road, Blackmount 9679. The taxi fare may vary, so it is advisable to check with the driver for an estimate before beginning your trip.
Discover more about Rakatu Wetlands
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
hope Arm Hut
12.3 km
Experience the serene beauty of Hope Arm Hut in Fiordland National Park - a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Rocky Point Shelter
25.2 km
Experience the tranquility of Rocky Point Shelter, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Fiordland National Park and the Kepler Track.
Te Anau Lions Lookout Point
25.3 km
Explore the stunning Te Anau Lions Lookout Point for breathtaking views of Lake Te Anau and the surrounding mountains in New Zealand's Fiordland region.
The Southland App
29.7 km
Discover Southland's beauty and local culture with The Southland App, your ultimate guide to adventures, dining, and attractions.
Freeman Burn Hut
33.0 km
Experience the serene wilderness of Freeman Burn Hut in Fiordland National Park, where adventure meets tranquility in stunning alpine settings.
Cockburn's Tower
36.2 km
Discover Cockburn's Tower, a historic landmark in Mount Prospect, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region's rich heritage.
Lake Roe Hut
40.1 km
Experience the tranquility of Lake Roe Hut in Fiordland National Park, a perfect retreat for hiking, fishing, and unplugging in nature's embrace.
Clifden Suspension Bridge
40.7 km
Experience the beauty and history of Clifden Suspension Bridge, a stunning architectural landmark set against the backdrop of Southland's natural beauty.
Lake Hauroko Lookout
41.5 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Lake Hauroko Lookout, a scenic gem in Fiordland National Park, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Walker Creek DOC Campsite
67.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Walker Creek DOC Campsite in Fiordland National Park, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventurers seeking unforgettable memories.
Beech Hut
70.3 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Beech Hut, a charming mountain cabin in New Zealand's Eyre Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Eglinton Flats
72.4 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and serene atmosphere of Eglinton Flats, a must-visit tourist attraction in Southland, New Zealand.
Templeton Flax Mill Heritage Museum
80.2 km
Explore the Templeton Flax Mill Heritage Museum in Riverton for an insightful look into New Zealand's flax milling history and local heritage.
Worsley Hut
81.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Worsley Hut in Fiordland National Park, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure.
Kiosk Creek Campsite (DOC)
81.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Kiosk Creek Campsite in Fiordland National Park, where nature meets adventure in a stunning landscape.
Unmissable attractions to see
Scenic Lookout
6.5 km
Experience stunning panoramic views at Scenic Lookout, a must-visit tourist attraction in Southland, New Zealand, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Pearl Harbour Viewpoint & Walkway
11.0 km
Experience the stunning views and serene beauty at Pearl Harbour Viewpoint & Walkway in Manapouri, New Zealand.
RealNZ - Doubtful Sound Manapouri Visitor Centre
11.3 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Doubtful Sound at the RealNZ Visitor Centre in Manapouri - your gateway to adventure and stunning natural landscapes.
Manapouri
11.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Manapouri, New Zealand—your gateway to stunning landscapes and unforgettable adventures in nature.
Frasers Beach
12.1 km
Discover the tranquility of Frasers Beach, a serene escape in Fiordland National Park with stunning views and outdoor adventures.
Te Anau Helicopter Services
14.7 km
Discover New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes from above with Te Anau Helicopter Services, where every flight offers stunning views and unforgettable experiences.
The Mount Titiroa Experience
14.8 km
Experience unparalleled natural beauty and adventure at The Mount Titiroa Experience in Manapouri, New Zealand, a top tourist attraction for nature lovers.
Stony Point
16.2 km
Explore the breathtaking natural beauty and serene atmosphere of Stony Point, a top tourist attraction in Manapouri, New Zealand, nestled in Fiordland National Park.
The Kepler Mire (String Bog)
17.9 km
Explore the Kepler Mire, a stunning nature preserve in New Zealand, featuring unique wetlands, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.
Ruby Beach
18.5 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and tranquil beauty of Ruby Beach in Southland, New Zealand - a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts.
Rainbow Reach
19.5 km
Experience breathtaking hikes and stunning views at Rainbow Reach, a must-visit destination in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand.
Lake Manapouri
20.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Manapouri, New Zealand's hidden gem in the heart of Southland, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Moturau Hut
20.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Moturau Hut, a mountain retreat along the Kepler Track in Fiordland National Park, ideal for nature lovers and hikers.
South West New Zealand World Heritage Area
21.3 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, a true natural wonder for every traveler.
Wilderness Scientific Reserve
21.4 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of the Wilderness Scientific Reserve, a must-visit natural attraction in New Zealand's Fiordland.
Essential places to dine
Jimmy Cook's Kiwi Kitchen
27.5 km
Experience authentic New Zealand cuisine at Jimmy Cook's Kiwi Kitchen with stunning lakefront views in Te Anau.
Glow Worm Restaurant
28.0 km
Experience the flavors of New Zealand at Glow Worm Restaurant in Te Anau – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Naturally Fiordland
28.1 km
Savor local flavors at Naturally Fiordland, where culinary excellence meets stunning views in Te Anau's heart.
Redcliff Restaurant and bar
28.1 km
Experience exquisite dining at Redcliff Restaurant and Bar in Te Anau – where stunning views meet delectable local cuisine.
Ristorante Pizzeria Paradiso
28.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pizzeria Paradiso in Te Anau – where every dish is crafted with passion and tradition.
The Ranch Bar & Grill
28.3 km
Experience family-friendly dining at The Ranch Bar & Grill in Te Anau, where hearty meals meet warm hospitality amidst stunning New Zealand landscapes.
The Fat Duck
28.3 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine at The Fat Duck in Te Anau—where local flavors meet culinary creativity.
Sandfly Cafe Te Anau
28.3 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and fresh coffee at Sandfly Cafe Te Anau - your perfect start before exploring Fiordland's wonders.
Orepuki Tavern
68.8 km
Discover delicious seafood and warm hospitality at Orepuki Tavern - your gateway to authentic coastal dining in New Zealand.
The Foundry Restaurant
95.8 km
Experience the best of local cuisine at The Foundry Restaurant in Invercargill—where delicious food meets warm hospitality.
The Cabbage Tree Restaurant
97.3 km
Discover exquisite local flavors at The Cabbage Tree Restaurant in Otatara – perfect for every occasion from casual meals to elegant celebrations.
Buster Crabb
97.4 km
Discover Buster Crabb: A Seafood Haven in Invercargill with Vibrant Dining and Bar Atmosphere.
Homestead
97.5 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Homestead – where culinary excellence meets cozy charm in Invercargill.
Eat on Windsor
97.9 km
Discover delicious local cuisine at Eat on Windsor, Invercargill's premier takeaway restaurant offering fresh flavors and friendly service.
Invercargill Pizzeria (pizza, pasta, salad)
97.9 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Invercargill Pizzeria - where every bite brings Italy closer to New Zealand.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Time Traders
11.7 km
Discover unique New Zealand souvenirs at Time Traders, a consignment shop in Manapouri offering eclectic finds and local treasures.
Sawdust Designs
11.7 km
Explore handcrafted treasures at Sawdust Designs in Manapouri, where local craftsmanship meets natural beauty, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Wild Wool Gallery (Alpaca Farm)
11.7 km
Explore Wild Wool Gallery in Manapouri for an authentic alpaca farm experience and discover unique wool products crafted with care.
Davaar & Co
25.4 km
Explore the charm of Davaar & Co in Te Anau, where beautiful NZ wool products and a cozy atmosphere await every visitor.
Fiordland Nurseries & Mower Centre
25.5 km
Discover a gardening paradise at Fiordland Nurseries & Mower Centre, where lush greenery meets expert advice in stunning Te Anau, New Zealand.
Simply New Zealand - Te Anau - Lakefront
28.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Simply New Zealand - Te Anau Lakefront, the perfect souvenir shop for your New Zealand adventure.
RD Petroleum Lakeside On the Spot
28.0 km
Explore the wonders of Te Anau with all your travel essentials at RD Petroleum Lakeside On the Spot, the ultimate convenience store and fueling station.
Luxmore Souvenirs 南方禮品中心
28.0 km
Explore Luxmore Souvenirs in Te Anau for unique gifts and authentic Kiwi memorabilia that capture the spirit of New Zealand.
Four Square Te Anau
28.0 km
Discover Four Square Te Anau for all your grocery needs while exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Fiordland, New Zealand.
Outside Sports Te Anau
28.1 km
Your ultimate destination for outdoor gear in Te Anau, New Zealand, offering everything from bicycles to camping essentials for the perfect adventure.
Jane Gilder Sewing & Design
28.1 km
Explore your creativity at Jane Gilder Sewing & Design, Te Anau's premier destination for custom tailoring, embroidery, and crafting supplies.
Kiwi House
28.1 km
Discover unique New Zealand gifts at Kiwi House in Te Anau, where local craftsmanship meets unforgettable souvenirs.
Hospice Shop
28.1 km
Explore the Hospice Shop in Te Anau for unique second-hand treasures while supporting local hospice services.
Wild Rides - Bike Fiordland
28.1 km
Experience Fiordland's breathtaking landscapes on two wheels with Wild Rides - Bike Fiordland, your ultimate cycling adventure hub.
Roam Clothing Te Anau
28.1 km
Explore unique fashion and local designs at Roam Clothing Te Anau, your go-to boutique in New Zealand's stunning Fiordland region.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Church Manapouri
11.7 km
Experience the exquisite flavors of The Church Manapouri, a charming grill restaurant in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Manapouri Lakeview Cafe and Bar
12.1 km
Experience the beauty of Lake Manapouri while enjoying delicious meals and drinks at the Lakeview Cafe and Bar - a perfect spot for relaxation.
Alpine Centre Cafe & Bar
27.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of scenic views and culinary delights at the Alpine Centre Cafe & Bar in Southland, New Zealand.
The Explorer Bar
27.8 km
Discover the cozy atmosphere of The Explorer Bar in Te Anau, where local wines and stunning views create an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
The Moose Bar and Armadillos Restaurant
27.9 km
Discover The Moose Bar and Armadillos Restaurant, a vibrant pub in Te Anau with stunning lake views and a diverse menu for all tastes.
Armadillos Te Anau
27.9 km
Discover local flavors at Armadillos Te Anau, where comfort food meets scenic views of the stunning Fiordland region.
Bailiez Cafe & Bar
28.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Te Anau at Bailiez Cafe & Bar, where delicious food meets a warm atmosphere in the heart of Fiordland.
Hollyford Cafe
28.2 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Hollyford Cafe, a cozy culinary haven in Te Anau, offering fresh, local cuisine in a charming atmosphere.
La Toscana Pizzeria
28.3 km
Experience the essence of Italy at La Toscana Pizzeria in Te Anau, where every dish is crafted with passion and served with warmth.
Radha's Indian Restaurant
28.3 km
Experience the rich flavors and spices of authentic Indian cuisine at Radha's Indian Restaurant in Te Anau.
Black Dog Bar
28.3 km
Discover the vibrant culture and exquisite cocktails of Black Dog Bar in Te Anau, the perfect spot for relaxation and culinary delight.
Milford Road Merchant
28.8 km
Discover the cozy Milford Road Merchant in Te Anau – your perfect stop for premium coffee and delicious takeaway meals amidst New Zealand's natural beauty.
Nightcaps Hotel
44.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and local charm at Nightcaps Hotel, where every drink tells a story in the heart of New Zealand.
Winton's Top Pub & Garden Bar
73.9 km
Experience the best of Winton at Winton's Top Pub & Garden Bar, where great food and lively ambiance come together in a picturesque setting.
Crafty’s Bar & Grill
95.8 km
Experience the vibrant ambiance and delectable menu at Crafty’s Bar & Grill, the heart of Invercargill's culinary scene.