Local residents near the tourist attraction contacted the Otago Daily Times last week about their concerns the car park was filling up with tourist vehicles and some were turning away due to over-capacity.
The distinctive series of rocky islets and lighthouse at Nugget Point near Kaka Point are a major drawcard for tourists to the Catlins.
Doc acting operations manager John McCarroll said while he was aware of the situation at Nugget Point there had been no formal complaints made to the department regarding over-capacity.
''We're aware these pressure points come on right around the Catlins at this time of the year.''
Despite the high interest in the attraction, Mr McCarroll said Doc did not have any plans to expand the car park in the next financial year.
It was ''certainly something'' the department would look at in the future.
''It is something we are aware of with the increase of tourism numbers in the area.''
The department would have to engage in a business study for the area as was procedure with any work on any car park owned by Doc.
He advised those travelling to the area to be aware of what car park facilities were available for use.
''These are the high flow or high peak periods for these areas and it's just about being respectful.''
The visitor number trends were starting to put greater stress on the area, he said.
New Zealand Transport Agency figures estimated visitors to Nugget Point had increased to more than 60,000 per year.
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What an amazing place the Nugget Point reserve is. Imagine if there was a marine protected area to compliment the land conservation values....but oh no, it's not going to happen is it, the recently closed for consultation South East Marine Protection Forum did not have the courage to include it in their proposals. Not only a missed opportunity for marine conservation but also the locals are going to miss out on increased tourist opportunities.