Purakaunui Bay is one of the best kept secrets in the Catlins. With this ride you get the best the district can offer you; Beach, Bush, Wildlife and Rural vistas.
Distance - 36km loop
Surface conditions – The road is sealed for 9km from Owaka to the turn off at Long Point Road. The balance of the trip is on loose gravel.
Gradient – The sealed section of this ride, from Owaka to the turn off at Long Point Road, is flat. There is a climb up Long Point Road (11-12km mark) with a decline into Purakaunui Bay. Elevation gain: 246m.
Directions - From the Owaka public carpark head down Waikawa Street, exiting town on the Papatowai Highway towards the Catlins Estuary. After 7km you will reach the bridge at the head of the estuary and turn left onto Purakaunui Falls Road. Continue on the sealed road for 4.5km, turning onto Long Point Road. Travel for 3.5km until the road forks, taking Purakaunui Bay Road for the last 3km. Well worth the ride.