Southland

Southland is a vast, wild region at the bottom of New Zealand’s South Island, where rugged coastlines, dense native forests, and deep fiords create one of the country’s most dramatic landscapes. This is a place for those who crave solitude and raw nature—think misty mountains, remote beaches, and the chance to spot penguins, sea lions, and albatross. The main hub, Invercargill, has a laid-back feel, but the real draws lie beyond: the world-famous Milford Sound, the catlins’ fossil-rich shores, and the untamed wilderness of Fiordland National Park. Come for the epic scenery and leave with a profound sense of being at the edge of the world.

Highlights & What to See

• Milford Sound – Awe-inspiring fiord with towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls (including the 155m Stirling Falls), and abundant wildlife like dolphins and seals. Take a cruise or kayak for the full effect.
• Fiordland National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage area of primeval rainforest, glaciated valleys, and world-class hiking tracks like the Milford, Routeburn, and Kepler Tracks.
• The Catlins – A rugged coastal strip with the famous Cathedral Caves, the fossilised forest at Curio Bay (where you can see petrified trees and yellow-eyed penguins), and the stunning McLean Falls.
• Stewart Island / Rakiura – New Zealand’s third-largest island, a birdwatcher’s paradise with kiwi sightings, pristine beaches, and the Rakiura Track (one of the Great Walks).
• Bluff – The southernmost town on the South Island, famous for its Bluff oysters and the iconic Stirling Point signpost. A great spot for a photo op.
• Invercargill – The region’s capital, home to the classic Southland Museum and Art Gallery (with tuatara), and the atmospheric Oreti Beach, where you can drive on the sand.
• Queenstown – Though technically in Otago, this adventure capital is the main gateway to Southland’s fiords and a perfect base for day trips (see Nearby Areas).

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience Southland’s highlights, plan at least 5–7 days. Spend 2–3 days in Fiordland (including a Milford Sound cruise and a short walk like the Key Summit), 2 days exploring the Catlins (drive the Southern Scenic Route), and 1–2 days on Stewart Island. If you’re short on time, a 3-day whirlwind from Queenstown can cover Milford Sound and a taste of the Catlins, but you’ll miss the depth. The region is best explored by car—roads are quiet but distances are long, so factor in driving time.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Queenstown – The adventure hub of New Zealand, offering bungee jumping, jet boating, and skiing, plus stunning lake and mountain views.
• Te Anau – The gateway to Fiordland and Milford Sound, with the magical glowworm caves and easy access to the Kepler Track.
• Dunedin – A historic city with a vibrant student scene, the Otago Peninsula (albatross colony and royal albatross centre), and beautiful Victorian architecture.
• Roys Peak – A challenging but rewarding hike near Wanaka offering panoramic views of Lake Wanaka and the Southern Alps.
• That Wanaka Tree – The iconic lone willow tree in Lake Wanaka, a must-photograph spot that’s become a symbol of the region.

Please check official sources for current details.