With its 'Kiwi as' character and out-of-this-world scenery, Southland is a pretty special corner of the country. Ahead of Southland Anniversary on April 19, here are just a few reasons to venture down the island.
Chasing waterfalls
It's no secret that Fiordland has jaw-dropping natural beauty to feast the eyes and feed the soul. If you haven't made it to this remote corner in a while, get your bearings with a fiord cruise of Piopiotahi/Milford Sound, or Patea/Doubtful Sound, where pristine waterfalls tumble down steep forested cliffs at every turn. Venture even further into Fiordland National Park to Tamatea/Dusky Sound and Rakituma/Preservation Inlet, where ethereal scenery and rugged hiking tracks beckon adventurous types, or kick back with a plate of local seafood in Te Anau.
The alpine town is best known for its famed lake and mountain trails, but its impressive system of glowworm caves is also well worth a look. And in this neck of the woods there's no reason to rush, as you're on "Te Anau time".
Catlins charm
This magical coastal stretch between Balclutha and Invercargill is a real national treasure. Highlights include the spectacular lookout at Tokata/Nugget Point lighthouse, and postcard-worthy McLean, Matai and Purakaunui Falls, the latter only a 15-minute meander from the main road. At Slope Point, a yellow signpost similar to the famous Bluff sign marks the southernmost point of the South Island, while Curio Bay is a haven for surfers and home to a 180-million-year-old Jurassic forest.
