Southern Scenic Route

Stretching from Dunedin to the Catlins and beyond, the Southern Scenic Route is one of New Zealand's most underrated road trips. This winding coastal highway delivers wild beaches, dense native forest, and quirky towns where sheep outnumber people. It's a journey through the raw, untamed side of the South Island, where every bend reveals another stunning vista or hidden gem.

Highlights & What to See

• Nugget Point Lighthouse: Perched on a rocky promontory, this iconic lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Pacific and a chance to spot fur seals, sea lions, and yellow-eyed penguins.
• Catlins Forest Park: Explore ancient podocarp forests along short walks like the McLean Falls track or the Cathedral Caves (accessible at low tide). Keep an eye out for the rare mohua (yellowhead) bird.
• Curio Bay: A petrified forest from the Jurassic period is exposed at low tide, and the bay is a prime spot for Hector's dolphins and penguins.
• Waipapa Point Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse at the site of New Zealand's worst shipwreck, with a lovely beach and sea lion colony.
• Slope Point: The southernmost point of the South Island mainland, where windswept trees lean permanently away from the Antarctic gales.
• Invercargill: The gateway to Stewart Island, with the excellent Southland Museum and a quirky vibe.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allow at least 2–3 days to drive the full route from Dunedin to Invercargill (or vice versa), stopping at key sights. You can stretch it to 4–5 days if you want to hike, kayak, or simply linger on the beaches. The road is well-sealed but winding, so factor in slower travel times. A self-drive is the best way to soak in the changing landscapes.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Dunedin: Start or end your journey in this historic city with its Scottish heritage, Victorian architecture, and the Otago Peninsula's wildlife.
• The Catlins: The heart of the scenic route, with its waterfalls, caves, and coastal walks.
• Stewart Island: A ferry ride from Bluff (near Invercargill) takes you to New Zealand's third island, a haven for birdwatchers and kiwi sightings.
• Fiordland National Park: A detour from Invercargill north to Te Anau and Milford Sound is well worth it for dramatic fiords and alpine scenery.
• Queenstown: A longer drive north from Invercargill leads to the adventure capital, great for bungee jumping, jet boating, and lake cruises.

Please check official sources for current details.