Catlins

Welcome to the Catlins, one of New Zealand's most untamed and captivating coastal regions. This rugged stretch of southeastern South Island is a place where dense native forest meets wild surf, and where you can stand beneath a waterfall that plunges directly onto a beach. It's a sanctuary for wildlife, with yellow-eyed penguins, sea lions, and Hector's dolphins frequenting its shores. Driving the Southern Scenic Route through the Catlins feels like stepping back in time—quiet roads wind through farmland and forest, leading to hidden coves and fossil-laden cliffs. This is a destination for those who love raw nature and solitude.

Highlights & What to See

• Nugget Point Lighthouse: A dramatic coastal walk to a historic lighthouse with panoramic views of the ocean and its namesake rocky islets, where fur seals and sea lions bask below.
• Purakaunui Falls: A short, easy bushwalk leads to this stunning three-tiered waterfall cascading 20 metres into a mossy gorge—one of the most photographed falls in New Zealand.
• Cathedral Caves: At low tide, explore these enormous sea caves carved into a towering cliff face. The walk through native forest to the beach is equally rewarding.
• Waipapa Point Lighthouse: This remote lighthouse offers a chance to spot sea lions lounging on the beach and, in season, yellow-eyed penguins returning at dusk.
• Slope Point: The southernmost point of the South Island, where you can see the iconic windswept trees shaped by the relentless Antarctic winds.
• Curio Bay: A petrified forest from the Jurassic period is exposed at low tide—walk among ancient tree stumps and spot yellow-eyed penguins and Hector's dolphins.
• McLean Falls: A beautiful waterfall set in lush native bush, reached via a short, scenic walk through fern-filled gullies.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience the Catlins, plan for at least two full days—ideally three if you want to do the longer walks or are a keen wildlife photographer. The region is best explored as a self-drive loop from either Dunedin or Invercargill, with overnight stops in small settlements like Owaka or Papatowai. A typical itinerary: day one covers the northern highlights (Nugget Point, Purakaunui Falls, Jack's Bay), day two explores the southern coast (Waipapa Point, Slope Point, Curio Bay), and a third morning could be spent at Cathedral Caves or McLean Falls before heading out.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dunedin: New Zealand's wildlife capital, with the Otago Peninsula's albatross colony and penguin habitats, plus a vibrant student city with Victorian architecture.
• The Southern Scenic Route: The drive from Dunedin to the Catlins (and onward to Invercargill) is a scenic highlight in itself, with coastal lookouts and forest walks.
• Invercargill: A gateway to Stewart Island and a base for exploring the southern Catlins, with the excellent Southland Museum and art gallery.
• The Caitlins Forest Park: Offers deeper bushwalks and tramping tracks, including the Chaslands and Tautuku sections, for those seeking more solitude.
• Stewart Island / Rakiura: A ferry ride from Bluff (near Invercargill) takes you to a rugged island paradise for kiwi spotting and multi-day hikes.

Please check official sources for current details.