Catlins Coast

The Catlins Coast is a wild, untamed stretch of southeastern New Zealand where dense native forest meets a rugged, windswept shoreline. This is a place of thunderous waterfalls, ancient petrified forests, and the world's rarest sea lions lolling on golden sands. Driving the Southern Scenic Route here feels like stepping back in time — expect dramatic seascapes, eerie caves, and a profound sense of isolation that's pure magic.

Highlights & What to See

• Nugget Point / Tokātā: A photogenic lighthouse perched on a rocky peninsula, with a short walk to a viewing platform where you can spot fur seals, sea lions, and yellow-eyed penguins at dawn or dusk.
• Purakaunui Falls: A stunning three-tiered waterfall cascading 20 metres through lush native bush — a 10-minute walk from the car park makes this an easy must-see.
• Cathedral Caves: Two vast sea-carved caverns accessible only at low tide (check local tide times). The walk through beachside forest adds to the adventure.
• Waipapa Point Lighthouse: A historic lighthouse overlooking a sweeping beach that's a prime spot for sea lions basking on the sand — keep a respectful distance.
• Curio Bay / Porpoise Bay: Home to a petrified forest from the Jurassic period, visible at low tide. In summer, Hector's dolphins often surf the waves here.
• McLean Falls: A powerful 22-metre waterfall reached via a short, scenic walk through rimu and beech forest — less crowded than Purakaunui but equally impressive.
• Slope Point: The southernmost point of the South Island, marked by a simple sign and windswept, contorted trees — a raw, elemental spot.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least two full days to explore the Catlins properly. The main loop from Invercargill to Balclutha via the Southern Scenic Route is around 200 km, but with frequent stops for walks, wildlife viewing, and photo opportunities, you'll want to break the journey with an overnight stay in Owaka or Curio Bay. A day trip from Dunedin is possible but rushed — you'd miss the chance to linger at sunset when penguins and sea lions are most active.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Invercargill: The gateway city, worth a brief stop for its art deco architecture and the Southland Museum's tuatara enclosure.
• Dunedin: A vibrant city with a Scottish heritage, the Otago Peninsula's albatross colony, and excellent craft beer scene — a natural start or end point for a Catlins road trip.
• Stewart Island / Rakiura: A ferry ride from Bluff, offering pristine wilderness, kiwi spotting, and the Rakiura Track — combine with the Catlins for a deep-south adventure.
• Fiordland National Park: About 2.5 hours west of Invercargill, Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound are epic additions for those with more time.

Please check official sources for current details.