Southern Scenic Route

The Southern Scenic Route is one of New Zealand's great road trips, a 610-kilometer stretch of highway that winds from the West Coast's glacial valleys through rainforest, past rugged coastline, and into the deep south. This is not a road to rush; it's a journey of dramatic shifts in scenery, from the misty temperate rainforests of Haast to the windswept beaches of the Catlins. Along the way, you'll encounter waterfalls, sea lions, and some of the country's most spectacular coastal views. The route is well signposted and offers plenty of pull-offs for photos, short walks, and spontaneous exploration. It's the kind of drive that rewards those who take their time.

Highlights & What to See

• Haast Pass: The gateway from the West Coast, with cascading waterfalls like Fantail Falls and Thunder Creek Falls just a short walk from the road.
• Makarora & Lake Wanaka: A scenic stop with the turquoise Blue Pools Track, an easy walk to crystal-clear swimming holes.
• Cardrona: A historic gold-mining village with a famous pub and a quirky collection of vintage memorabilia.
• Queenstown: The adventure capital, but also a great place to pause for a lakeside coffee or a ride on the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views.
• The Catlins: A wild coastal area with the iconic Nugget Point lighthouse, the petrified forest at Curio Bay, and the chance to see yellow-eyed penguins at Sandfly Bay.
• Invercargill & Bluff: The southernmost city and the start (or end) of the route, with Bluff's famous oysters and the landmark Stirling Point signpost.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan at least 4 to 5 days to drive the full Southern Scenic Route from Haast to Bluff (or vice versa). This allows time for short walks, wildlife spotting, and overnight stops in Wanaka, Queenstown, and the Catlins. If you're pressed for time, you could do it in 3 days, but you'll miss many of the side trips and hidden gems. The route is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, with plenty of flexibility to pull over when the scenery calls.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Fiordland National Park: Take a detour from the route to Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound for a cruise among towering fiords.
• Stewart Island: A ferry ride from Bluff offers a remote wilderness experience with kiwi bird sightings and pristine beaches.
• Te Anau: The gateway to Fiordland, with the glowworm caves and the Kepler, Milford, and Routeburn tracks.
• Wanaka: A lakeside town with the famous #ThatWanakaTree, excellent hiking, and the quirky Puzzling World.
• Arrowtown: A historic gold-mining settlement with preserved cottages and a charming main street, just a short drive from Queenstown.

Please check official sources for current details.