The Catlins

Rugged, remote and utterly captivating, the Catlins is one of New Zealand's best-kept secrets. This wild coastal stretch in the South Island's southeastern corner is where dense native forest meets dramatic cliffs, thundering waterfalls and a coastline teeming with wildlife. Think fur seals basking on rocky shores, yellow-eyed penguins waddling up sandy beaches, and Hector's dolphins playing in the surf. With winding roads, few towns and a palpable sense of isolation, the Catlins rewards the self-drive traveller who has time to linger.

Highlights & What to See

• Nugget Point Lighthouse – An iconic lighthouse perched on a rocky promontory, offering panoramic views and a chance to spot seals, sea lions and seabirds at sunrise or sunset.
• Purakaunui Falls – A picture-perfect three-tiered waterfall cascading 20 metres through lush native bush; a short walk leads to a viewing platform.
• Cathedral Caves – Enormous sea caves accessible only at low tide; the walk through native forest to the beach is just as impressive as the caves themselves.
• Curio Bay – A petrified forest that's over 180 million years old, plus a breeding colony of yellow-eyed penguins – best viewed from the hide at dusk.
• Slope Point – The southernmost point of the South Island, with windswept trees and dramatic cliffs overlooking the Southern Ocean.
• Waipapa Point Lighthouse – A historic lighthouse and beach where New Zealand sea lions often haul out; keep a respectful distance.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers spend 1-2 days driving the Catlins loop from Invercargill or Balclutha. Ideally, budget two full days to allow for short walks, wildlife watching and flexibility with tides (especially for Cathedral Caves). The road is winding and often narrow, so driving times are slower than you'd expect – but that's part of the charm. Overnighting in Owaka or Curio Bay gives you more time to explore.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Invercargill – Gateway to the Catlins; a good place to stock up on supplies and visit the Southland Museum.
• Stewart Island – A ferry ride from Bluff; for even more remote wilderness and kiwi spotting.
• Bluff – Famous for its oysters and the iconic Stirling Point signpost; the start of State Highway 1.

Please check official sources for current details.