Last updated July 2026
Curio Bay is a striking coastal destination in the Catlins, southeast of Invercargill, where visitors can explore a rare Jurassic fossil forest and observe native wildlife. The site features petrified tree stumps exposed at low tide and offers opportunities to see Hector’s dolphins in the surf at adjacent Porpoise Bay. Yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals and sea lions also frequent the area. A short, accessible track leads to a viewing platform, making the main features easy to reach. The location forms part of a scenic day trip along the Southern Scenic Route.
Practical Information
| Location | Curio Bay, Catlins, Southland District |
| Distance from Invercargill | Approximately 90 km southeast via SH 92 |
| Access | Sealed road from Southern Scenic Route; roadside parking |
| Track | Short sealed track to viewing platform (wheelchair/buggy friendly); steps to beach at low tide |
| Best time for fossils | Low tide |
| Entry fee | None |
| Dogs | Not permitted near wildlife areas |
| Drones | Prohibited at the fossil forest |
| Facilities | Viewing platform, information panels; nearby café at Tumu Toka Curio Scape |
About Curio Bay
Curio Bay lies on the southern coastline of the Catlins and preserves one of the world’s most extensive and least disturbed Jurassic fossil forests. The site reveals tree stumps and logs from around 180 million years ago, when the area formed part of the eastern margin of Gondwana and supported conifer and tree-fern forests. Volcanic debris repeatedly buried the forest, leading to petrifaction through silica replacement over thousands of years. Erosion has since exposed the fossils along the shoreline, visible primarily at low tide.
The fossil forest stretches roughly 20 km southwest toward Slope Point. Distinct bands in the cliff face record multiple cycles of forest growth and destruction. Fern impressions appear in associated mudstones. The Department of Conservation manages the scientific reserve and provides a viewing platform with interpretive panels. Souvenir collection is illegal, and visitors must leave all fossils undisturbed.
Porpoise Bay, immediately adjacent, offers sheltered waters where Hector’s dolphins frequently surf in summer and autumn. The combined area supports a range of coastal activities while protecting sensitive wildlife habitats.
Wildlife at Curio Bay and Porpoise Bay
Hector’s dolphins (papakanua) regularly appear in the surf at Porpoise Bay during warmer months. Maintain at least 50 m distance when swimming or kayaking; never feed or touch them. Yellow-eyed penguins (hoiho) nest in the Curio Bay and Waikawa area, with a national population estimated at 6,000–7,000. Birds typically return to nests in late afternoon. Keep at least 30 m from fur seals and sea lions, which haul out along the coastline. Dogs must stay well clear of all wildlife zones.
Access and Visitor Activities
Curio Bay is signposted from State Highway 92 along the Southern Scenic Route. The drive from Invercargill takes about 90 minutes. A short sealed track from the car park leads to the viewing platform overlooking the fossil forest. At low tide, steps provide beach access for closer inspection of the petrified stumps. Porpoise Bay supports swimming, kayaking and surfing when conditions allow. Tumu Toka Curio Scape nearby offers a café and interpretive exhibits on local geology and ecology. No guided tours operate specifically for the fossil forest; visitors explore independently while following Department of Conservation guidelines.
What Visitors Often Say
Many describe the fossil forest as a highlight of any Catlins trip, noting how striking the ancient stumps look at low tide and how informative the viewing platform panels are.
Visitors frequently mention seeing Hector’s dolphins close to shore at Porpoise Bay and appreciate the chance to observe yellow-eyed penguins without disturbing them when keeping a respectful distance.
Where to Learn More
Department of Conservation: Official page with access details, wildlife guidelines and fossil forest information.
Tumu Toka Curio Scape: Local centre with café and exhibits on Catlins geology and history.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the track to the viewing platform wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the short sealed track from the roadside parking area to the viewing platform is wheelchair and buggy friendly.
When is the best time to see the fossil forest?
Visit at low tide when the petrified stumps and logs are fully exposed along the shoreline.
Are there entrance fees or guided tours?
There is no entrance fee. No guided tours operate specifically for the fossil forest; visitors use the self-guided track and platform.
Can I swim with dolphins at Curio Bay?
Hector’s dolphins are often seen at adjacent Porpoise Bay. Enter the water at least 50 m away and let them approach if they choose.
What wildlife protection rules apply?
Keep dogs away from penguin, seal and sea lion areas. Maintain 50 m from dolphins and 30 m from seals and sea lions. Drones are prohibited at the fossil forest.
Is the site suitable for children?
Yes, the short accessible track and viewing platform make it family-friendly, with educational panels suitable for all ages.
Are there nearby facilities?
Tumu Toka Curio Scape provides a café and exhibits a short distance from the car park.
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