Off The-Beaten-Path; The Catlins

Tucked away in the southeastern corner of New Zealand’s South Island, The Catlins is a place where rugged coastlines, dense rainforests, and rolling farmlands meet. It’s wild, it’s remote, and it’s an absolute must-see for anyone looking to experience a side of New Zealand that feels untouched by time.

Getting to The Catlins from Queenstown

A road trip from Queenstown to The Catlins is an adventure in itself. The journey takes around three and a half hours by car, covering approximately 250 kilometers. The best route follows State Highway 6 south to Invercargill, before connecting with the Southern Scenic Route, a breathtaking drive that winds through coastal landscapes and native forests. Expect a mix of open farmlands, rolling hills, and stretches of untouched coastline along the way.

This road trip offers more than just a scenic drive—it’s packed with stops that showcase the beauty of New Zealand’s southern region.

Invercargill – A great place to refuel (both your car and yourself). Visit Queens Park or the Bill Richardson Transport World if you have time.
Waipapa Point – Home to a historic lighthouse and one of the best spots to see New Zealand sea lions basking on the beach.
Slope Point – The southernmost point of the South Island, where the winds are fierce, and the view over the Southern Ocean is unbeatable.

Purakaunui Falls, Matai Falls, & Horseshoe Falls - A Trio of Stunning Cascades

From Queenstown, take the Southern Scenic Route through Invercargill (4.5 hours) to the lush Catlins, home to three stunning waterfalls. Purakaunui Falls is a short 10-minute walk through native forest to its iconic three-tiered cascade. Nearby, Matai Falls and Horseshoe Falls are an easy 30-minute return walk. Tracks are well-formed but can be muddy—wear sturdy shoes. These falls lie in Ngāi Tahu territory, once rich in mahika kai (food gathering). Pack a rain jacket, insect repellent, and a camera to capture these hidden gems.

Shipwrecks & Stories from the Past

The Catlins coastline has seen its fair share of shipwrecks, thanks to the unpredictable Southern Ocean. One of the most well-known disasters was the wreck of the Surat in 1874. This immigrant ship struck a reef near Chaslands Mistake, forcing the captain to beach it at the mouth of the Catlins River. Miraculously, everyone survived, but the remains of the ship are still hidden beneath the sands of Surat Bay.

A Landscape Like No Other

The Catlins is a mix of rolling green pastures, dense native forests, and towering sea cliffs. Sheep and cattle dot the farmlands, while ancient podocarp forests—filled with rimu, kahikatea, and beech trees—are alive with birdsong. Waterfalls like McLean Falls and Purakaunui Falls cascade through lush greenery, creating hidden pockets of tranquility.

The Catlins Wildlife Encounters

One of the biggest draws of The Catlins is its wildlife. If you’re lucky, you might spot:

Hector’s dolphins – One of the world’s rarest dolphins, often seen playing in the surf at Curio Bay.
Yellow-eyed penguins (Hoiho) – These shy, endangered penguins waddle ashore at dawn and dusk.
Fur seals & sea lions – These giants of the beach can often be found lounging along the coast.

Must-See Spots

The Catlins is full of hidden gems, but these are the must-visit locations:

Nugget Point Lighthouse – Perched on a dramatic cliffside, this lighthouse offers panoramic views of the ocean and the rocky “nuggets” scattered below.
Curio Bay – A 180-million-year-old petrified forest sits beneath the waves, visible at low tide.
Cathedral Caves – Towering sea caves that are only accessible at low tide—walking inside them is an unforgettable experience.

Don't Miss Stewart Island!

For an unforgettable detour, head to Bluff (40 minutes from Invercargill) and catch the ferry to Stewart Island. This remote paradise offers incredible wildlife, including kiwi spotting, scenic hikes like the Rakiura Track, and boat tours around Paterson Inlet. Pack a rain jacket, insect repellent, and a camera to capture these hidden gems. Visit our Southland & Stewart Island page for more information, activities and accommodation options.

Stewart Island: Ulva Island Guided Wilderness Walk & Cruise

BOOK NOW

Why Visit The Catlins?

If you love wild, untouched landscapes, rich history, and unique wildlife, The Catlins should be at the top of your travel list. Unlike the more tourist-heavy parts of New Zealand, this region offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure. Whether you’re standing on windswept cliffs, watching dolphins leap in the waves, or wandering through an ancient fossilised forest, The Catlins is a place that stays with you long after you leave.

Need help planning your trip? Use our AI Assist Travel Tool!