Southland - a region made for exploring

PHOTO: Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track

There’s a taste of heaven for every dreamer in Southland: Primeval forests where you’ll feel like the only person on earth, long clear rivers known for some of the best fishing in the world and yellow-sand beaches which go on forever.

The character of the region is found in the landscape - endless beaches pounded by the Pacific Ocean, rolling green and fertile plains, divided by wide meandering rivers flowing from rugged mountains dusted with snow in Winter. Rugged and unspoilt, the landscape is one of contrasts: from farmland and forest to wild waterways and small friendly towns.

Southern Scenic Route

One of the most spectacular roads in New Zealand is undoubtedly the Southern Scenic Route, which forms a link between Fiordland, Invercargill (New Zealand’s southernmost city) and Dunedin. Passing through the Catlins enroute, admire the abundance of wildlife: sealions, seals, penguins and dolphins. Other essential stop-offs along the road include caves hidden from sight by tides, waterfalls flowing through the trees and an ancient petrified forest.

Invercargill

The city of water and light, Invercargill, is not only the starting point for the many adventures in Southland but also the cosmopolitan hub for the province. Art galleries, including the Southland Museum and Art Gallery housed in a pyramid, show off the talents of Southlanders while cafes and bars provide delectable cuisine and entertainment after the sun goes down.

Gore

Some of the best brown trout fishing in the world can be experienced on the Mataura River on the outskirts of Gore. Southland’s second largest town is also home to cultural heritage attractions including the Hokonui Moonshine Museum and the John Money exhibition.

Stewart Island

Stewart Island, Rakiura National Park, New Zealand newest national park, offers peace and tranquility and is separated from the rest of New Zealand by Foveaux Strait - 32 kilometres ofsalt water. The island is a mix of unspoilt inlets, bush clad hills and valleys, sandy beaches and dramatic granite outcrops. It is home to the Brown Spotted Kiwi as well as a variety of other native birds. Fishing and tourism are Stewart Island’s main industries and the Island is easily accessible by air and sea. Oban is the only town on Stewart Island. An abundance of activities are on offer with the highlights being Kiwi spotting, Ulva Island Open Bird Sanctutory, fishing, sea kayaking, walking and tramping.

Walks

Southland is an area with a huge diversity of walks, from short walks to multi-day treks. The walks can either be unguided or guided:

Southern Fiordland: Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track. Covering 53km of contrasting landscapes, lowland coastal Waitutu Podocarp forests and sub-alpine tussock, the track involves a three-day/two night walking experience.

Stewart Island: Rakiura Track

Covering 29km over two nights and three days. The track requires moderate fitness, providing a good introduction to Stewart Island, following the open coast, it climbs over a 300 metre high-forested ridge and traverses the sheltered shores of Paterson Inlet. Passing sites of historical interest, it’ll introduce the tramper to many of the common sea and forest birds of the island.

North West Circuit:

A whopping 125km, over 10 to 12 days. The North West Circuit provides a challenging tramp around the island’s northern coast. The track is suitable for experienced and well-equipped trampers.

It’s time to discover Southland, the most diverse destination in New Zealand

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