Sinclair Head, Te Rimurapa, is a coastal headland at Ōwhiro Bay in Wellington, known for a seal colony. Up to 150 male New Zealand fur seals come to rest and feed on the rocks in winter, between May and August. Most are found beyond Devil's Gate, the cutting through the headland. Its name in Māori refers to the giant bull kelp, rimurapa, found on the south coast. The headland also has the remains of a WWII observation post.
The walk from Owhiro Bay Quarry takes about an hour along a coastal four-wheel-drive track, past Red Rocks and two small groups of historic baches from the early 1900s. The site is suitable for walks, cycling, four-wheel driving and seal viewing. Toilets are at Owhiro Bay Quarry, and dogs must be kept on a leash. On Sundays the gate at Devil's Gate is closed, and the route is open only to walkers and mountain bikers. Our pick in Ōwhiro Bay for a winter seal walk.