Catlins Forest Park

Catlins Forest Park is a wild, untamed slice of New Zealand's southeastern coast, where ancient podocarp forests meet dramatic ocean cliffs and hidden waterfalls. This remote, rainforested park offers a raw, off-the-beaten-path experience that rewards adventurous travellers with stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife.

Highlights & What to See

• Nugget Point Lighthouse: One of the most iconic coastal viewpoints in New Zealand, with a short walk to a historic lighthouse overlooking rocky islets (the Nuggets) teeming with seals, sea lions, and seabirds.
• Purakaunui Falls: A spectacular three-tiered waterfall plunging 20 metres through lush native bush – easily accessible via a short, family-friendly walk.
• Cathedral Caves: Enormous sea caves carved into limestone cliffs, accessible only at low tide. The main cavern soars 30 metres high and is a surreal, echoing space.
• McLean Falls: A powerful waterfall cascading over a series of rock ledges, reached by a short walk through ancient forest alive with birdlife.
• Curio Bay: A petrified forest from the Jurassic period, exposed at low tide, and a key breeding site for yellow-eyed penguins and Hector's dolphins.
• Waipohatu Waterfalls: A pair of stunning waterfalls (Wairere and Waipohatu) in a serene, moss-draped forest setting, ideal for a peaceful walk.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience the Catlins, allocate at least two full days. This allows you to explore the main sights without rushing, and to factor in tide times for Cathedral Caves and wildlife viewing. Many travellers spend one day on the coastal highlights (Nugget Point, Curio Bay, Cathedral Caves) and another on inland walks (McLean Falls, Purakaunui Falls, Waipohatu). If you're short on time, a single day can cover the top four or five attractions, but you'll miss the unhurried charm of this region.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Invercargill: The nearest city, a gateway with good accommodation and supplies, plus the excellent Southland Museum and Tuatara House.
• The Catlins Coast (including Owaka and Waikawa): The small settlements along the Southern Scenic Route offer charming cafes, galleries, and easy access to the park's highlights.
• Dunedin: A two-hour drive north, this historic city boasts Victorian architecture, the Otago Peninsula's albatross colony, and the famous Baldwin Street.
• Stewart Island / Rakiura: For true wilderness seekers, a ferry from Bluff takes you to New Zealand's third-largest island, renowned for kiwi spotting and tramping.

Please check official sources for current details.