Southland is New Zealand’s southern edge — a land of wild coastlines, ancient forests, unique wildlife, and remote beauty. From the dramatic fjords of Fiordland to the penguin colonies of the Catlins and the bird sanctuary of Stewart Island, this is where nature truly takes centre stage.

🏔️ Fiordland National Park

Fiordland is New Zealand’s largest national park and one of the most spectacular places on Earth.

• Milford Sound – The most famous fjord, with sheer cliffs, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife. Best explored on cruises, kayaking trips, or scenic flights.

• Doubtful Sound – Wilder and quieter than Milford, reached via boat and bus transfer. Known for its raw, untouched beauty.

• Great Walks – Fiordland is home to three: the Milford Track, Routeburn Track, and Kepler Track, offering world-class multi-day hiking.

🐧 The Catlins – Wild Southern Coast

Stretching along the southeast coast, the Catlins are a hidden gem of rugged beauty.

• Curio Bay – Famous for its fossilised forest and resident Hector’s dolphins.

• Nugget Point Lighthouse – Perched above dramatic rock formations teeming with seals and seabirds.

• Purakaunui Falls – A postcard-perfect, multi-tiered waterfall.

• Penguins & Wildlife – Spot rare yellow-eyed penguins (hoiho) and sea lions along remote beaches.

🦜 Stewart Island / Rakiura

New Zealand’s third-largest island is a paradise for birdlife and untouched wilderness.

• Ulva Island Sanctuary – A predator-free island where native birds thrive, including kiwi, kaka, and saddlebacks.

• Kiwi Spotting Tours – Stewart Island is one of the only places you can see kiwi in the wild, often at night.

• Rakiura Track – A Great Walk that circles the coastline through bush, beaches, and bays.

🐑 Invercargill – Southernmost City

Invercargill is the hub of Southland, known for its friendly locals and unique attractions.

• Transport World – A world-class museum featuring classic cars, trucks, and quirky memorabilia.

• Bill Richardson Transport World & Classic Motorcycle Mecca – Must-sees for motor enthusiasts.

• Queens Park – A beautifully maintained park and gardens, great for a relaxing stroll.

🦭 Bluff – Gateway to Stewart Island

The port town of Bluff is the jumping-off point for ferries to Stewart Island. It’s also famous for:

• Bluff Oysters – Some of the world’s best, celebrated at the annual Bluff Oyster Festival.

• Stirling Point – The iconic signpost marking the southern tip of the South Island.

🚲 Cycling & Outdoor Adventures

Southland is an outdoor playground with plenty of cycling and walking trails.

• Around the Mountains Cycle Trail – A 300 km trail through remote valleys and farmland.

• Hump Ridge Track – A multi-day guided hike combining beaches, bush, and alpine ridges (soon to become New Zealand’s newest Great Walk).

🦅 Wildlife Encounters

Southland is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

• Albatross & Penguins – See seabirds along the Catlins and Stewart Island.

• Sea Lions – Large colonies bask along the southern beaches.

• Birdwatching – From kaka to kererū, the region is rich with birdlife, especially on Stewart Island.

🌟 Final Thoughts

Southland is New Zealand at its wildest. From cruising through Milford or Doubtful Sound, wandering the rugged Catlins, or spotting kiwi on Stewart Island, this region delivers unforgettable encounters with nature. It’s remote, raw, and real — the perfect destination for travellers seeking an authentic adventure.