Are you a Foodie or more of an Explorer at heart? Maybe you’re a History Buff or perhaps you’re happy to be a Free Spirit? Or maybe you want to don your Captain’s hat and rule the crystal clear waters of the region.
Curated Southland Roadtrips
Explore every nook and cranny of authentic Southland through one of our five self-drive road trips and be enthralled by everything it has to offer - spectacular landscapes, friendly locals, and exquisite southern cuisine just waiting to be discovered. Embrace an unforgettable journey across the stunning, dramatic landscapes that shape this unspoilt region, and we promise you are going to love every moment of this treasured piece of New Zealand.
Explore our Itineraries
The History Buff
The history of Murihiku Southland is rich and varied with each part of the region embracing their own unique past. Throughout the region, Southland history is being preserved and celebrated. View lighthouses and whalers' sites, moonshine distilleries, and Victorian hotels whilst paying homage to the ancestors who made our country what it is today. Southland’s living history showcases both interactive modern museums, and outdoor experiences left to be reclaimed by the land. History enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice in Southland with a line-up of options ranging from Riverton’s Te Hikoi Museum or Tumu Toka Curioscape at Curio Bay that harbour wonderous treasures. Which historic adventure will you relive today?
The Explorer
Get ready to explore the edge of the world! Southland’s pristine wilderness is known for its rare and unique wildlife and a “must do” for anyone who is passionate about nature and authentic encounters. Want to listen to native birdsong? Spot kiwis hiding in the dark? Or enjoy marine species up close and personal on a cruise? Delve deep into the crevices of the Te Anau Glowworm Caves or uncover semiprecious stones at Gemstone Beach in Western Southland. Wander through rural towns full of southern hospitality or drive-by rugged coastlines with an untouched quality that is magnetic. On Rakiura Stewart Island the Kiwi bird outnumbers humans 50 to 1 so if you are out at night make sure you keep an eye out for these national treasures. Once you start to experience all Southland has to offer you will find it hard to leave.
The Free Spirit
Southland is famous for its ‘southern hospitality' and magnificent natural scenery. Experience a chilled-out holiday along the Southern Scenic Route. This incredible journey has been ranked one of the top 10 drives in the world, and for good reason. 600km of spectacular natural coastline, cultural attractions, and exciting activities, such as scenic walks, wildlife viewing and surfing. With experiences ranging from alpaca feeding and private mountain bike trails to boutique horse treks and authentic kiwi farmstay experiences, there is a rich array of options available to entice any Free Spirit.
The Foodie
Foodies rejoice as you sample your way through some of the world’s best fare, all produced in the great Southern region. You should know that being surrounded by ocean and farmland is a pretty good sign if you are seeking fresh local produce and Southland ticks both of those boxes. Enjoy succulent seafood, including world-famous Bluff oysters, Stewart Island salmon, mussels, paua and blue cod or farm-fresh vegetables and prime cuts of meat which are nearly always found on the menu along with the Southland staple - the cheese roll.
The Captain
With a coastline that stretches 3,400 kilometres, the deepest lakes in the country and some of the best trout fishing rivers in the world, Southland's waterways are top-notch. Few fishermen can resist Southland’s lure, the clear, clean rivers and streams, teeming with trout, flowing across this great region. For something more active, a guided kayaking trip can show you everything from the tallest mountain peaks of Patea Doubtful Sound to the crystal blue waters of Rakiura Stewart Island. If cruising, canapes and a glass of bubbly is more to your taste, hop on board Fiordland Historic Cruises and sail across Lake Te Anau on a ship with real history, surrounded by New Zealand’s natural beauty.
