Top destinations in Southland
Where to stay in Southland
Invercargill City Centre
Unique features of Invercargill City Centre include the theaters and bars. Make a stop by Civic Theatre or Classic Motorcycle Mecca while you're exploring the area.
Southland
Snow-capped mountain peaks and lush rainforests reflect in the crystal clear lakes of this breathtakingly beautiful district of New Zealand’s South Island.
Visit Southland to experience the wonders of this magical area. Hike past rolling green hills and float through the calm waters of inlets and fjords.
Cruise through Milford Sound to view spectacular sheer cliff faces and waterfalls plunging into pristine waters. Enjoy an overnight cruise or join a kayaking tour to spot dolphins, seals and crested penguins in their natural habitats.
Traverse more deep lakes and rugged terrain in Fiordland National Park. The pretty bordering town of Te Anau has great accommodation options. From here contemplate stunning lake views and gain access to the park’s great activities.
Explore the Te Anau Glowworm Caves or cycle around Lake Te Anau on a flat, family-friendly bike track. Hike with a knowledgeable guide on a daytrip on the famous Routeburn Track or adventure amidst fiords on a multiday trek. Book trailside cabins in advance as they get quite busy in summer.
Breathe in salty sea air in the lovely town of Bluff. Taste the exquisite seafood hauled ashore at this deep-water port and stop by the Bluff Maritime Museum for local history. Join friendly locals at musical events and quirky eating competitions at the annual Bluff Oyster and Food Festival.
Take the ferry from Bluff for a few days on relaxing Stewart Island. Walk on sandy beaches, view wildlife or surrender to the peace and quiet on an all-day fishing trip.
Purchase a ticket for the 7-minute water taxi to Ulva Island and enjoy a day walking the tracks of this nature reserve teeming with bird life. Bring your binoculars to spot a flightless kiwi bird on the island.
Hire a car to get around this exciting district and explore some of the fantastic driving opportunities such as the 70-kilometre (43-mile) Catlins Coastal Heritage trail. The region’s largest city of Invercargill has domestic flights to Christchurch and Wellington and regional bus services.
This amazing part of New Zealand has incredible natural beauty, friendly towns and numerous attractions and activities.
Top hotels in Southland
Reviewed on Apr 28, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 29, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 28, 2024
Frequently asked questions
Popular places to visit
Milford Sound
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Milford Sound during your travels in Fiordland National Park. Discover the area's waterfalls and glaciers.
Lake Te Anau
Explore a geologically active glowworm cave, relax in a lakeside town and organise a kayaking adventure when visiting this spectacular glacial lake.
Mitre Peak
With a position looming over the famous Milford Sound, it’s no wonder this towering summit of the Fiordland mountain is among the most photographed sites in the country.