Flagstaff Lookout 7 Aurora Terrace, Dunedin, Otago 9023

Welcome to Flagstaff Lookout, a captivating tourist attraction located at 7 Aurora Terrace in Dunedin, New Zealand. This establishment offers a unique experience for visitors, combining natural beauty with historical significance.

One of the main highlights of Flagstaff Lookout is the Flagstaff Hill Loop Track, a scenic walk that takes you through regenerating kanuka/manuka scrub, down into the Waipara/Watering Bay stream and wetland, and finally up to Te Maiki/Flagstaff Hill, one of New Zealand's most iconic historic sites. As you embark on this walk, you might be lucky enough to spot the endangered North Island weka, which has been successfully reintroduced to the Russell Peninsula by the Russell Landcare Trust.

It's important to note that a section of the track crosses private land, but walkers are still welcome. Please respect the signage in place, which prohibits dogs, even when on a lead, and make sure to stick to the formed track.

To begin your journey, head north from the northern end of The Strand, Kororareka Bay, and follow the beaches until you reach Watering Bay. From there, turn inland and follow the Flagstaff Hill Loop Track. Take the left-hand fork in the track and ascend through regenerating coastal forest until you reach Titore Way. Turn right onto the road and walk approximately 300 meters to find a sign marking the final leg of the Flagstaff Hill Loop Track. This leg will take you up through regenerating coastal scrub to the famous flagstaff, where you can enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the Bay of Islands and the Flagstaff Hill summit (Te Maiki).

Once you reach the summit, you can take the path down to the carpark. At the carpark, you have two options: you can cross the carpark and take a short track up to the sundial, which offers even more stunning views of the Bay of Islands and the Russell township, or you can turn right and continue the Flagstaff Hill Loop Track down to the top of Wellington Street and from there to the Russell township.

If you prefer a different starting point for the Flagstaff Hill Loop Track, you can begin at the intersection of Wellington and Kent Streets, near the boat ramp on The Strand in Russell. From there, walk approximately 300 meters up Wellington Street until you spot a sign on your left. This alternative track is ideal during high tide, as it takes you down into the Kororareka Reserve. At the intersection of the tracks in the valley, make a right turn and follow the Flagstaff Hill Loop Track until you reach Titore Way. For further route directions, please refer to the low tide description.

Please be aware that Wellington Street is very narrow. If you choose to walk, keep an eye out for vehicles, and if you're driving, be mindful of pedestrians.

Before Flagstaff Hill became the site of a flagpole, it was occupied by Māori. The hill holds a significant place in history, as the first four erected flagstaffs were cut down in protest. Explore this rich heritage as you visit Flagstaff Lookout and immerse yourself in the natural beauty and historical significance that it offers.