Hidden away on the southeastern edge of New Zealand’s South Island, The Catlins is a rugged coastal region where untamed beauty and raw nature still reign supreme. With windswept beaches, misty rainforests, thunderous waterfalls, and some of the rarest wildlife in the country, this is a destination for travellers who crave solitude, wild scenery, and authentic Kiwi charm.
Wildlife Encounters: Up Close With NZ’s Rarest Creatures
One of the biggest draws of the Catlins is its incredible wildlife, often just a short walk from the roadside. There’s no need for zoos or wildlife parks here, these animals live freely in their natural habitat.
- Yellow-eyed Penguins (Hoiho): These shy, rare penguins can be spotted at Roaring Bay near Nugget Point and Curio Bay. The best time to see them is just before dusk when they waddle ashore after a day at sea. Keep your distance these guys are endangered, and human disturbance is a real threat to their survival.
- Hector’s Dolphins: One of the smallest and rarest dolphins in the world, Hector’s dolphins love to play in the surf at Porpoise Bay. Often, you’ll see them from the shore, surfing the waves or leaping out of the water.
- NZ Fur Seals and Sea Lions: Head to Cannibal Bay or Waipapa Point and you might stumble upon a sea lion snoozing in the sand or seals sunbathing on the rocks. They look cuddly but keep a safe distance they're wild, and those sea lions can move surprisingly fast!
- Birdwatching Heaven: Bring your binoculars! From forest-dwelling tūī and bellbirds to coastal seabirds, the Catlins is a haven for bird lovers.
Epic Natural Landmarks: Raw, Remote, and Remarkable
Every corner of the Catlins seems to reveal another natural wonder. Here are some of the standout sights:
- Nugget Point Lighthouse: One of the most iconic views in New Zealand. A short walk leads to a clifftop lighthouse perched above a wild sea scattered with rocky islets “the nuggets.” Go at sunrise for an unforgettable golden glow.
- Purakaunui Falls: Tucked in the forest down a short, easy trail, this waterfall is a stunning three-tier cascade. It’s one of the most photographed waterfalls in the country and seeing it in person is even better.
- Cathedral Caves: These massive sea caves are only accessible at low tide, but they’re well worth planning for. Walk through towering caverns carved by centuries of wave erosion. It feels like entering nature’s own cathedral.
- Curio Bay: An absolute must. At low tide, you’ll walk across a 180-million-year-old petrified forest, with fossilised tree trunks visible in the rock. In the evening, penguins often return here from the sea, making it a double attraction.
Short Walks & Day Hikes: Explore On Foot
The Catlins offers some of the most underrated bushwalks and forest trails in the country. Most are short, easy, and family-friendly.
- Matai & Horseshoe Falls: A tranquil walk through podocarp forest to two lovely falls. The trail is short and manageable, perfect if you're just passing through.
- Lake Wilkie Track: This easy boardwalk follows a fascinating ecological gradient from scrub to mature forest and ends at a peaceful little lake with mirrored reflections.
- Waipohatu Waterfall Loop Track: A slightly more challenging but rewarding bush walk that loops through lush forest and takes in both Punehu and Pouriwai Falls.
- Slope Point: The southernmost point of the South Island. It’s windswept, wild, and you’ll feel like you’re standing on the edge of the world.
Slow Travel: Embrace the Journey
Driving the Southern Scenic Route through the Catlins is not about speed, it's about discovery. Winding gravel roads, remote beaches, roadside honesty boxes selling fresh baking, and tiny townships like Owaka and Tokanui give the area a timeless feel. There’s little to no phone reception, so just unplug and take your time.
Highlights along the way:
- Florence Hill Lookout – Epic views over Tautuku Bay.
- Tautuku Boardwalk – A peaceful walk-through coastal wetlands.
- Surat Bay – Sea lions and wild waves.
- Catlins River Track – For keen trampers, this 3–4 hour trail runs through native forest following the river.
Where to Stay: From Cozy to Wild
Accommodation in the Catlins ranges from rustic camping to cozy farm stays:
- Freedom camping and DOC campsites are popular with campervanners.
- Locally-run B&Bs and eco-lodges offer warm hospitality and stunning views.
- Camp at Curio Bay for the ultimate nature immersion, fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake up to dolphins in the bay.
Starry Nights and Slow Evenings
With almost no light pollution, the Catlins offers amazing stargazing. Lie back, look up, and let the southern sky put on a show. In winter, you might even spot the Aurora Australis if you’re lucky!
Best Things to Do in the Catlins
- Visit Nugget Point Lighthouse
- One of the most iconic views on the South Island.
- Short walk to a clifftop lighthouse overlooking rocky “nuggets” scattered in the sea.
- Best at sunrise or sunset for epic lighting and coastal vibes.
- See Purakaunui Falls
- A beautiful three-tiered waterfall set in lush native forest.
- Easy 10-minute walk from the carpark perfect for all fitness levels and great for photos.
- Explore Cathedral Caves
- Towering sea caves accessible only at low tide.
- Walk through huge natural caverns carved by the ocean over thousands of years.
- Check tide times before you go!
- Watch Yellow-eyed Penguins at Roaring Bay or Curio Bay
- Spot these rare and endangered penguins waddling ashore in the late afternoon.
- Viewing hides are available to help you watch without disturbing them.
- See Hector’s Dolphins at Porpoise Bay
- Watch one of the world’s rarest and smallest dolphins play in the surf.
- Sometimes visible from the beach, no tour needed!
- Visit Curio Bay’s Fossil Forest
- Walk across a 180-million-year-old petrified forest at low tide.
- Fossilised tree stumps and logs visible in the rock, fascinating for all ages.
- Spot Sea Lions at Cannibal Bay and Surat Bay
- Often found lounging in the sand or playing in the surf.
- Keep a respectful distance they’re wild and can be aggressive if approached.
- Walk to Matai Falls & Horseshoe Falls
- A gentle forest trail leads to two lovely waterfalls.
- Peaceful and accessible great for a relaxed nature walk.
- Boardwalk Through Lake Wilkie
- A short, tranquil walk through regenerating native bush.
- Spot forest birds and enjoy beautiful lake reflections.
- Drive the Southern Scenic Route
- Take your time on this rugged, remote stretch of road.
- Filled with lookouts, beaches, forests, and quirky rural stops.
- Stand at Slope Point – The Southernmost Point of the South Island
- A short walk across farmland takes you to a sign marking the southern tip.
- Windy and wild, with epic ocean views.
- Go Stargazing
- With almost zero light pollution, the Catlins is perfect for stargazing.
- Look out for the Milky Way or even the Southern Lights in winter.
Final Thoughts
The Catlins is one of those places that feels untouched by time. It’s wild, weathered, and completely magical. It won’t hit you with flash or hype, it’ll quietly sweep you away with its beauty, solitude, and authenticity. If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in New Zealand, this is it.
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