Waipapa Point is a very rugged southerly section of the Catlins coast. It is to the west of and almost in line with Slope Point, the most southerly point of the South Island.
The surf at this very rugged, seaweed-strewn beach can be awesomely violent. Nearby is the Tararua Cemetery, commemorating the wreck of the Tararua in 1881, the worst civilian shipwreck in NZ history.
There is also a very photogenic lighthouse, which has yet to claim its share of fame on Instagram! Not to mention the seals and sea lions on the beach.
To get there from the intersection of Slope Point Road and Otara Haldane Road, follow the latter to Waipapa Otara Road. Turn left and drive to the car park near the Waipapa lighthouse.
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