Southland

New Zealand
Mitre Peak featuring a bay or harbor, a sunset and mountains
Filled with some of the largest populations of native wildlife in the country, this region is a nature lover’s delight and a photographer’s dream.

A patchwork of lush rainforests, rolling hills, rugged coastlines and character-filled towns, Southland is the ultimate nature and wildlife destination and the southernmost region of New Zealand. Visit Southland to see native animals in their natural habitat, walk across scenic countryside trails and enjoy fresh local seafood in friendly coastal cafés.

Take a ferry across to Stewart Island, New Zealand's third-largest island. Embark on a 3-day hike along the Rakiura Track, past plenty of beautiful coastal scenery. Look for brown kiwi birds, who have made the island their home and forage for food on the beaches.

Explore the southernmost city of Invercargill, which features Victorian, Edwardian and art deco heritage buildings. Wander around Queens Park, an 80-hectare (198-acre) collection of gardens, walkways and a bird aviary. Take a tour of the Invercargill Brewery to sample locally-produced beers.

Take your photograph in front of the famous world distance signpost at Stirling Point in Bluff. Sample Bluff’s world-famous oysters and enjoy panoramic vistas of the Foveaux Strait.

Head out to the Catlins Coast for an abundance of wildlife and stunning river valleys. Hike to the majestic sea caves at Cathedral Caves during low tide. At Curio Bay, marvel at the fossilized trees, which are said to date back to the Jurassic period.

Look for yellow-eyed penguins, sea lions and dolphins at Nugget Point, a headland and series of islets housing colonies of seabirds and wildlife. Drive down the Owaka-Invercargill highway to Purakaunui Falls, a magnificent waterfall that cascades over 65 feet (20 meters) and is set within lush forest.

Visit Te Anau, a picturesque town that is the gateway for Fiordland National Park and the majestic Milford Sound. Boat cruises carry passengers through the fiords, which were carved by glaciers during the Ice Age.

Fly into Christchurch Airport and take a connecting flight or long-distance bus to Invercargill. Rent a car to explore the region at your own pace or rent a bike to explore the many scenic cycle trails.

With its fresh seafood, craggy coastlines and native wildlife, Southland will not disappoint.

Popular cities in Southland

Milford Sound featuring mountains, forests and a pebble beach
Fiordland National Park
Known for Adventure and Natural parks
Fiordland National Park awaits: its adventures, parks, and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Milford Sound
  • Mitre Peak
  • Doubtful Sound
Te Anau showing a lake or waterhole and landscape views
Te Anau
Known for Lakes, Excursions and Tours
With its stunning lake, excellent walking trails and mesmerising glow worm cave, this town is more than just an access point for the sounds of Fiordland.

Reasons to visit

  • Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre
Bluff
Bluff
Known for Ferries and boats, Sea and Islands
Experience the seaside, parks, and museums in Bluff!

Reasons to visit

  • Stirling Point
Stewart Island / Rakiura
Stewart Island / Rakiura
Venture to sights like Rakiura National Park and Rakiura Environmental Centre as you discover Stewart Island / Rakiura.

Reasons to visit

  • Rakiura National Park
sunset at the estuary - the area beside the estuary used to be the city landfill and has been a restoration project since 1994 with ongoing planting and pest plant control. Walking and cycling loop track around the Lagoon and across the Roger Sutton Boardwalk. Interpretation, seating and bird watching opportunities. Views extend to Bluff Hill further south.
Invercargill
Known for Gardens, Islands and Museums
Escape to upscale Invercargill! Enjoy its museums, gardens, and sunny weather.
Gore
Gore
Known for Fishing, Small town and Live music
Experience relaxing Gore: its fishing, live music, countryside, and more!