Fascinating displays include: whaling, oystering, shipwrecks, a working steam engine, historic maps and artworks, and a full-sized oystering boat.
Southland’s port, Bluff (Motupōhue), lies thirty kilometres south of Invercargill. The town, which is the southernmost settlement on mainland New Zealand, is home to the iconic Bluff Oyster & Food Festival and is the “Gateway to Stewart Island” via a twice-daily ferry service.
The area has been permanently occupied since the establishment of a whaling station in 1836. Originally named Campbelltown, the local moniker “Bluff” (in reference to the prominent 265m conical hill which the township nestles beside) became the town’s official name in 1917. As one of the oldest European settlements in New Zealand, Bluff has a rich history and many interesting attractions. It also offers many wonderful short walks, both bush and coastal, that showcase the stunning scenery and views.
The most-photographed spot in Bluff is the famous signpost at Stirling Point, which is a highlight for any visitor to the South. The signpost points out distances to major cities around the world and marks the beginning of State Highway 1, New Zealand’s main highway which traverses the whole length of the country all the way to Cape Reinga in the far north.
Highlights
Highlights
Famous for its signpost, which depicts distances to major cities around the world, Stirling Point is located at the beginning of State Highway 1.
The Foveaux Strait is known for its big seas, its big oysters and its Big FISH like Great Whites and Sharks. Specialising in Shark Cage Diving out of Bluff.
Located at Stirling Point, this restaurant boasts 180 degree views of the southern coast and delicious locally sourced seafood and beverages.
An easy drive from both Invercargill and Bluff, the quaint area of Omaui offers scenic reserves, bush walks, picnicking spots, and a stunning beach.
The 47ft Mana is available for full-day fishing trips and transport to hunting blocks. We also have a range of other fishing items available for hire.
Spacious hotel rooms with all of the facilities you need, designed and decorated to provide you with a totally relaxing experience.
An easy track and boardwalk that follows a scenic shoreline and ends at a great picnic spot with a viewing platform overlooking a ship graveyard.
Bluff Lodge offers comfortable and friendly accommodation that’s great value - perfect for the budget-conscious trave
This recreational area offers spectacular views over Southland and the southern coast, and numerous different walking and mountain biking tracks.
