Southland New Zealand – Just NZ South Island

About The Region
Attractions + Events
Map
Drive Times

About The Region

Travellers can expect to enjoy every inch of this captivating region. The Catlins area in particular is a spectacular and hidden treasure waiting to be found by you. In this rural heartland there are many natural attractions to enjoy. Glimpse the yellow eyed penguins, hike through podocarp forests, past rugged coastlines, amazing waterfalls and discover hidden lakes. Cities & Places of Interest in this area include: Invercargill, Catlins, Lumsden, Bluff, Stewart Island, Gore, Te Anau & Fiordland

“In an area known for its remoteness and low population, the Catlins is really something special!”

Unearth a diverse range of unique attractions waiting to be explored. Supreme beauty and natural wonders can be found amongst the long sandy beaches, green farmlands, refreshing rivers, mountainous ranges and rugged coastline.

Attractions + Events

Attractions

  • Succulent Bluff Oysters – the world’s best!
  • 27 excellent fishing rivers & streams within 2 hours of Invercargill
  • Oct – Apr world class brown trout fly fishing on the Mataura River near Gore
  • Historic fishing village of Riverton
  • 180 million year old Petrified Forest at Curio Bay in the Catlins.
  • The Catlins Coast wildlife – Hector Dolphins, sea-lions, seals and abundant birdlife.
  • Nugget Point with its ocean vistas, gives a chance to see seals and Yellow-eyed penguins.
  • Tuataras – living dinosaurs at the Southland Museum, Invercargill.
  • Jetboating on Lake Hauroko (near Tuatapere), at 462m this is NZ’s deepest lake.

Events

  • 24th – 25th July 2015
    Hokonui Fashion Design Awards
  • 26th – 29th November 2015
    Burt Munro Challenge Rally
  • May 2016
    Bluff Oyster & Food Festival

Map

Southland Regional Map

Drive Times

From To Kms Hrs
Invercargill Christchurch 580 kms 8 hrs 15 mins
Invercargill Dunedin 217 kms 3 hrs
Invercargill Dunedin (via The Southern Scenic Route 282 kms 5 hrs 20 mins
Invercargill Te Anau 44 kms 45 mins