Southland

Plan your trip to Southland

Southland is New Zealand's southernmost region, offering rugged coastlines, pristine wilderness, and a genuine taste of rural Kiwi life. Based around the port city of Invercargill, this often-overlooked corner of the country rewards visitors with dramatic landscapes and authentic experiences away from tourist crowds.

Getting there & around

Fly into Invercargill Airport, which has daily connections to Christchurch and Auckland, or drive south from Dunedin (around 3.5 hours). Once there, a car is essential for exploring the region's remote beaches, national parks, and coastal roads. The main highway (State Highway 99) connects towns and attractions throughout Southland.

How long to stay

Plan for 4-5 days to experience Southland's key attractions, including Fiordland's coastal scenery and wildlife. This gives you enough time to explore without rushing, though you could spend longer if hiking or visiting nearby Fiordland National Park.

When to go

Visit from November to March for milder weather, longer daylight hours, and the best opportunity to spot wildlife like penguins and dolphins. Winter (June-August) brings colder temperatures and shorter days, though fewer tourists and dramatic stormy weather.

Suggested itinerary

  1. Invercargill exploration — Arrive in Invercargill and explore the city's museums, historic architecture, and local shops. Visit the Invercargill Art Gallery or take a walk through Queens Park to get oriented.
  2. Coastal wildlife and beaches — Drive to the Catlins region or head to Bluff for coastal scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities including Hector's dolphins and little penguins. Stop at local viewpoints and take a coastal walk.
  3. Fiordland and Te Anau direction — Drive toward Fiordland National Park, exploring scenic routes and stopping at lookout points along the way. Consider a short walk or nature spot to experience Southland's wilderness.

Frequently asked questions

Is Southland worth visiting?

Yes, if you want to escape crowds and experience authentic, rugged New Zealand scenery with wildlife viewing opportunities. It's less developed than popular tourist regions but offers genuine landscapes and a slower pace of travel.

How far is Southland from other New Zealand attractions?

Southland is about 3.5 hours drive from Dunedin, and 5-6 hours from Queenstown via Fiordland. It sits at the southern tip of the South Island, making it somewhat remote but accessible by road.

What wildlife can you see in Southland?

You can see Hector's dolphins, little penguins, fur seals, and various seabirds, particularly in coastal areas like the Catlins and around Bluff. The best viewing season is November to March.

Do you need a car in Southland?

Yes, a car is essential for exploring Southland, as public transport is limited and attractions are spread across remote areas. Invercargill has rental car options available.

What is the best time to visit Southland?

November to March offers the mildest weather and best wildlife viewing opportunities. Winter (June-August) is colder and darker but attracts fewer tourists.

History

Southland, located at the southwestern tip of New Zealand's South Island, has a rich history rooted in Māori settlement and later European exploration. The region was traditionally inhabited by Ngāi Tahu iwi (tribe), who developed a sophisticated understanding of the local environment and resources. European settlement accelerated in the mid-1800s with the discovery of gold and the establishment of pastoral farming, which became the economic foundation of the region. Today, Southland's heritage reflects this blend of Māori and European influences, visible in place names, cultural practices, and the landscape itself.

Culture

Southland is known for its strong farming and rural heritage, with sheep and deer farming playing a central role in both the economy and local identity. The region has a distinctive character shaped by its isolation and dramatic landscapes, fostering a close-knit community spirit and a reputation for genuine Kiwi hospitality. Southland takes pride in its Māori cultural connections and outdoor traditions, from fishing to exploring its renowned natural attractions like Fiordland and Stewart Island.

Language

English is the primary language spoken in Southland, though te reo Māori (the Māori language) holds cultural significance and is increasingly used in place names and public life. Locals use typical New Zealand English expressions and slang, and you may hear the distinctive Southland accent, which carries unique vowel sounds and speech patterns characteristic of the region.

Best time to visit

Visit from November to March for milder weather and wildlife viewing.

Places to visit

Where to eat