Shag Point, also known as Matakaea, has a rich history dating back to the early Ngai Tahu settlement and the historic coal mining era. Today, it’s a true haven for nature lovers, offering plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing and marveling at the region’s unique geology.
The Shag Point/Matakaea region, located in New Zealand, is a breathtakingly diverse and beautiful landscape. This area is managed collaboratively by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and Te Runanga o Ngai Tahu to ensure that its natural and cultural heritage is preserved and well-managed.
The area is home to various flora and fauna, including seals, penguins, and seabirds, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.
The area is not only home to diverse wildlife but also has a fascinating history. It includes stories of early Maori settlement, European exploration, and coal mining.
Visitors are warmly welcome to come and explore this stunning area, where they can immerse themselves in the breathtaking landscapes, learn about the fascinating stories of the area, and experience the rich biodiversity that makes Shag Point/Matakaea such a unique and special place.
Experience Of Viewing Marine Mammals
The flat rock platforms provide a perfect and comfortable resting spot for furry seals. These platforms are easily accessible and offer an ideal setting for relaxing and sunbathing.
You can enjoy watching the seals from nearby cliff-top viewing areas. You can glimpse these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat without disturbing their peaceful slumber. The seals are playful and curious and often come close to the viewing areas.
If you’re lucky, you might even see some whales or dolphins swimming offshore. Seeing these majestic creatures is awe-inspiring and an experience you’ll never forget.
Maori History
A long time ago, people hunted moa in the area around Shag/Waihemo River Mouth. Archaeologists have found many interesting things here that show how the Ngai Tahu people lived back in the 12th century. You can see some of these things, like artifacts and moa skeletons, at the Otago Museum.
Matakaea is an ancient village where people have lived for a long time. It has many burial sites and special locations that are important to its people.
According to a story, The village was named after a sunken canoe called Arai Te Uru near Moeraki. The people on the canoe swam to shore, leaving their belongings on the beach. They ran away and turned into mountains. The canoe was carrying kumara, a special kind of food from Hawaiiki. They needed unique words and customs to grow the kumara successfully.
Geology
Large, perfectly round boulders, part of the Arai Te Uru legend, can be found on the soft sandstone along the shoreline’s rock shelf, similar to those discovered near Oamaru.
Moreover, the mudstones on this headland contain well-preserved smooth and wave-worn fossils. Scientists found a massive plesiosaur that’s about 23 feet long and added it to the fossil collection at the University of Otago.
