McCracken's Rest is a lookout and rest area on a cliff edge overlooking Te Waewae Bay. If you are coming from Tuātapere on the Southern Scenic Highway, it provides the first view of the bay. Several panels in the rest area describe the natural features and local marine life, along with a colourful directions sign covered in stickers and picnic tables. The rest stop was named after the landowners who provided it, Robert and David McCracken.
In addition to views of the bay, you will see the Solander Islands on a clear day. The islands formed around one million years ago and are the eroded remains of a volcano. According to Māori legend, the islands represent the broken tooth and crumbs discarded by the whale, Kewa, as it chewed out the land between Rakiura / Stewart Island and the mainland, creating Foveax Strait.
There are also views to the west of Sand Hill Point at the end of the bay and the Hump Ridge. Looking southeast, you will see Pahia Point and Rakiura / Stewart Island. You may also spot the largest pod of Hector's dolphins (pokohue) in NZ!
