It was a relatively calm day when we visited Gemstone beach recently. We have stopped at other times and not even got out of the truck because the weather was so wild. It was still quite windy but not too cold. Its about 68 kn or just under an hour from Invercargill to Gemstone beach.

Semi-precious gems such as garnet, jasper, quartz and nephrite can often be found on the beach but I don’t think we found any, maybe next time.

On Gemstone Beach, the surf can wash up semi-precious gems such as garnet, jasper, quartz, and nephrite for keen explorers to find. The beach is in a constant state of change, with the surface shifting from sand to stones with the storms and tides. ‘Gems’ have often been found among the beautiful array of multicolored rocks, and at the very least, your fossicking is guaranteed to uncover some very interesting stones.

The rugged and remote location of Gemstone Beach means it is often deserted, and the wild Southern Ocean also means Orepuki Beach delivers some of the best surf NZ has to offer. A winter wetsuit is recommended! It’s also a great beach for surfcasting.

Looking over Te Waewae Bay

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Extend your day out by visiting these other coastal areas

Monkey Island beach is about 4km back towards Riverton on the Southern Scenic Route (99). There is a Doc camping ground there.

From Monkey Island beach on the same road travel approx 10km to Cozy Nook – see separate post.

From Cozy Nook, back on the same road call in at the scenic Colac Bay on your way back to Riverton or Invercargill.

Colac Bay

Colac Bay

How to get there:

Gemstone Beach is signposted off State Highway 99, about 500m north of Orepuki. There is a small carpark at the end of Mullans Road West. Watch for waves. Avoid high tide.