Catlins

Welcome to the Catlins, a wild and remote stretch of southeastern New Zealand where the Southern Ocean crashes against dramatic cliffs, ancient rainforests cling to the coast, and wildlife abounds. This is a place of raw natural beauty, where you can stand beneath a waterfall that plunges directly onto a beach, watch yellow-eyed penguins waddle ashore at sunset, and feel the spray from a blowhole without a souvenir shop in sight. The Catlins rewards those who take the time to explore its winding roads and short walks.

Highlights & What to See

• Nugget Point / Tokata: A photogenic lighthouse perched on a rocky peninsula; at dawn and dusk, spot fur seals, sea lions, and yellow-eyed penguins from the viewing platform.
• Purakaunui Falls: A three-tiered waterfall framed by lush native bush, easily accessible via a short 10-minute walk.
• Cathedral Caves: Enormous sea caves carved into limestone cliffs, accessible only at low tide (check local tide times).
• McLean Falls: A powerful waterfall cascading over a series of tiers, reached via a 30-minute walk through podocarp forest.
• Curio Bay: A petrified forest from the Jurassic period, exposed at low tide, and a breeding ground for Hector's dolphins and yellow-eyed penguins.
• Slope Point: The southernmost point of the South Island, with a windswept signpost showing distances to the equator and the South Pole.
• Waipapa Point Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse and a prime spot for sea lions lounging on the beach.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly appreciate the Catlins, allow at least two full days – one to cover the northern highlights (Nugget Point, Purakaunui Falls, Cathedral Caves) and another for the southern side (Curio Bay, Slope Point, Waipapa Point). If you're short on time, a single long day will let you hit the major stops, but you'll be racing the fading light. The Catlins is best enjoyed as a slow, scenic detour between Dunedin and Invercargill.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dunedin: A vibrant city with Scottish heritage, wildlife on the Otago Peninsula, and the world's steepest street.
• Invercargill: The southernmost city in New Zealand, gateway to Stewart Island and its kiwi spotting.
• Stewart Island / Rakiura: A haven for birdwatchers and hikers, with the Rakiura Track and kiwi sightings in the wild.
• The Southern Scenic Route: A stunning coastal drive connecting the Catlins with Fiordland and the Waipounamu World Heritage Area.
• Fiordland National Park: Home to Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, and the Kepler Track – a dramatic contrast to the Catlins' gentle coastline.

Please check official sources for current details.