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.