Hamilton's Gap

Welcome to Hamilton's Gap, an establishment nestled in the picturesque location of Āwhitu, West Coast Road, 238. As a park and point of interest, Hamilton's Gap offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of New Zealand.

At Hamilton's Gap, we understand the importance of conservation and the impact it has on our environment. That's why we are proud to be a part of the Southern Lakes Sanctuary's conservation efforts. With the help of Jobs for Nature funding, we have been able to employ dedicated staff to undertake vital conservation work locally, supporting our tourism workers who have been affected by the challenges of COVID-19.

In line with our commitment to conservation, we are excited to announce that the Government will be introducing 19 new protection areas in the Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana. This initiative will further safeguard the natural beauty and biodiversity of our surroundings, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the wonders of Hamilton's Gap.

Hamilton's Gap is not only a place of natural beauty but also a hub for research and education. The Department of Conservation (DOC) offers postgraduate research scholarships for conservation-related studies in both the natural and social sciences. This provides a unique opportunity for scholars to contribute to the preservation and understanding of our precious ecosystem.

As part of our dedication to protecting the environment, we invite you to participate in the National Wild Goat Hunting Competition. By joining this competition, you not only have a chance to win national and local prizes but also play a crucial role in safeguarding our environment from the negative impact of wild goats.

While exploring Hamilton's Gap, you may come across New Zealand fur seals. We kindly advise visitors to leave them undisturbed, except in exceptional circumstances. Our commitment to the well-being of wildlife extends to all species, and we strive to create a harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.

In line with our dedication to conservation, the latest special issue of the New Zealand Journal of Ecology focuses on the challenges faced by our native frogs. This issue serves as a tribute to the late Emeritus Professor Phil Bishop, a champion of our precious amphibians. By highlighting the issues faced by frogs, we aim to raise awareness and inspire action towards their protection.

We are proud to share that DOC has successfully completed the intricate task of fixing a collapsed section of 140-year-old stone retaining walls at Denniston, north of Westport. This accomplishment showcases our commitment to preserving our historical landmarks and maintaining the integrity of our natural surroundings.

We would like to remind visitors to be mindful of their furry companions during walks along Wellington beach. A tragic incident involving a seal pup and a dog serves as a reminder for owners to be present and ensure the safety of both wildlife and pets.

Lastly, as the whitebait season approaches, DOC is here to provide guidance for a safe and enjoyable experience. From 1 September to 30 October, we encourage everyone to follow the recommended guidelines to protect this cherished delicacy and its fragile ecosystem.

At Hamilton's Gap, we invite you to immerse yourself in the beauty of New Zealand's natural wonders while actively participating in the conservation efforts that shape our future. Join us in preserving our environment for generations to come.