A short, easy-going gravel road runs out to the edges of the Waituna Lagoon, near Awarua Bay. Good one for a quick run to the water, with the wide, low-lying coastal wetlands of the Awarua-Waituna area opening up around you.

The wetlands here are known for their birdlife and that open, windswept feel. It's a peaceful spot to take in the lagoon and the big Southland skies, and the light shifting over the water is worth pulling over for.