Highlights of Southland

Southland offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventures, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, history buffs, and those seeking a tranquil escape.

Stunning National Parks

Fiordland National Park:

Milford Sound: Milford Sound is a world-renowned natural wonder, with towering peaks, cascading waterfalls, and serene waters. Take a boat cruise or kayak to fully experience its beauty. 🚢🏞️

Hiking Trails: Explore the famous Milford Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks, offering breathtaking scenery and diverse landscapes. Other popular trails include the Routeburn and Kepler Tracks. 🥾🌲

Wildlife Watching: Spot diverse wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and rare bird species, in this pristine wilderness. 🐬🦅

Rakiura National Park:

Stewart Island: Stewart Island, home to Rakiura National Park, offers untouched landscapes and abundant wildlife. It’s a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. 🌳🌊

Rakiura Track: Hike the Rakiura Track, another of New Zealand’s Great Walks, to explore lush forests, sandy beaches, and stunning coastal views. 🚶‍♀️🏝️

Kiwi Spotting: Stewart Island is one of the best places in New Zealand to see kiwi birds in the wild. Join a guided night tour for a chance to spot these elusive creatures. 🦆🌙

Scenic Landscapes

Catlins Coast:

Waterfalls and Caves: The Catlins Coast is known for its rugged beauty, with attractions such as the Cathedral Caves, Purakaunui Falls, and McLean Falls. 🌊🏞️

Curio Bay: Visit Curio Bay to see the petrified forest and the rare yellow-eyed penguins. The bay is also great for surfing and swimming. 🏄‍♂️🐧

Nugget Point: Explore Nugget Point, a dramatic coastal landscape with a historic lighthouse and spectacular views of the rocky islets known as the Nuggets. 📸🌅

Bluff:

Stirling Point: Visit Stirling Point, the southernmost point of New Zealand’s State Highway 1, and take a photo with the iconic signpost. 📍📸

Bluff Hill: Hike up Bluff Hill for panoramic views of Foveaux Strait, Stewart Island, and the Southland plains. 🚶‍♂️🌄

Bluff Oysters: Try the famous Bluff oysters, considered some of the best in the world, at local restaurants and seafood festivals. 🦪🍴

Outdoor Adventures

Invercargill:

Queens Park: Explore Queens Park, a beautiful botanical garden with walking trails, aviaries, and a golf course. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy nature. 🌳🌸

Bill Richardson Transport World: Visit Bill Richardson Transport World, an impressive automotive museum with a vast collection of vintage cars, trucks, and memorabilia. 🚗🏛️

Southland Museum: Discover the region’s history and natural heritage at the Southland Museum, which includes exhibits on Maori culture, local wildlife, and the famous Invercargill tuatara. 🏛️🦎

Riverton:

Surfing and Swimming: Riverton, known as the Riviera of the South, offers beautiful beaches for surfing, swimming, and beachcombing. 🌊🏄‍♂️

Te Hikoi Museum: Learn about the area’s Maori and European history at Te Hikoi Museum, which features interactive exhibits and local stories. 🏛️📜

Riverton Rocks: Explore the scenic coastline and rock formations at Riverton Rocks, a popular spot for fishing and picnicking. 🐟🌅

Local Markets and Dining

Invercargill Farmers Market:

Fresh Produce: Visit the Invercargill Farmers Market, held every Sunday, to find fresh local produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts. The market is a great way to experience local Flavors and meet the producers. 🥕🛍️

Gourmet Treats: Enjoy delicious treats from local vendors, including fresh fruits, cheeses, baked goods, and more. 🍓🧀

Diverse Dining Scene:

Global Cuisine: Southland’s dining scene offers a range of cuisines, from hearty New Zealand fare to international dishes. Enjoy a meal at one of the local cafes or restaurants. 🍽️🌍

Seafood Delights: Try the local seafood, especially the famous Bluff oysters and blue cod, at waterfront restaurants and seafood shacks. 🐟🦪

Cultural and Art Experiences

Classic Motorcycle Mecca:

Motorcycle Museum: Visit Classic Motorcycle Mecca in Invercargill, home to a stunning collection of classic and vintage motorcycles, offering a unique glimpse into the history of motorcycling. 🏍️🏛️

Southland Arts Trail:

Local Art: Explore the Southland Arts Trail, which showcases the work of local artists in their studios and galleries. It’s a great way to discover unique artworks and meet the artists. 🖼️🎨

Art Workshops: Participate in art workshops and classes offered by local artists, fostering creativity and learning new skills. 🖌️📚

Accommodation and Relaxation

After a day of exploration, relax and unwind in one of Southland’s comfortable accommodations. From luxury lodges to charming bed and breakfasts, you’ll find the perfect place to rest.

Luxury Lodges:

Premium Comfort: Southland offers several luxury lodges that provide top-notch amenities, stylish rooms, and excellent service. 🌆✨

Boutique Hotels:

Charming Stays: Enjoy a unique and personalized experience at one of the area’s boutique hotels. These hotels offer charm, comfort, and a welcoming atmosphere. 🏨🌺

Holiday Homes and Rentals:

Home Away from Home: For those seeking a home away from home, holiday homes and rentals in Southland provide all the comforts and conveniences you need. 🏠🌇

Eco-Friendly Stays:

Sustainable Comfort: Experience eco-friendly accommodations that focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility, offering a relaxing stay while minimizing your environmental footprint. 🌿🏡

Reflecting on the Experience

Southland is a region that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural richness. Whether you’re exploring stunning national parks, enjoying outdoor activities, or immersing yourself in the local arts scene, Southland provides a unique and enriching experience. 💖🏞️

So, pack your bags, embark on an adventure, and discover the charm of Southland for yourself. You won’t regret it! 🧳✨

Until next time, happy travels! 🌏🚀