Hump Ridge Track - Southland, New Zealand
Hump Ridge Track © Pink Penguin Studio

Things to Do in Murihiku Southland

Get ready for an adventure of a lifetime in Murihiku Southland! With so many amazing activities and natural wonders, there's something for everyone, regardless of your interests or budget. Southland is home to much of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most dramatic, awe-inspiring, iconic wild places and wildlife. It includes part of Te Wāhipounamu - a UNESCO World Heritage area covering 2.6 million hectares in the southwestern of the country.

Our place is a land of variety and contrasts, from the pristine white surf beaches of the Catlins, the rolling farmlands of the fertile plains, the drama of Te Ara a Kiwa Foveaux Strait, the beauty of our lakes and rivers and the ancient granite rock walls of Te-Rua-o-te-Moko Fiordland, rising straight out of the sea. During summer, we enjoy the longest daylight hours and sunshine, while in winter, our night skies come alive with twinkling stars and the ethereal beauty of the Aurora Australis - the Southern Lights. Southland is home to the southernmost dark sky sanctuary in the world. 

From tramping and mountain biking to fishing and wildlife spotting, you'll find endless opportunities to explore the great outdoors. And for those seeking an extra adrenaline rush, why not try jet boating, kayaking, surfing, or even shark cage diving?

But Southland is not just about outdoor activities. You can also take scenic tours, cruises, flights, and charters to discover the region's stunning landscapes and visit museums, galleries, and heritage trails to learn more about its rich history and culture.

With two national parks and half of New Zealand's Great Walks, including the famous Milford Track, Southland boasts some of the most breathtaking natural attractions in the world. But if you prefer something shorter, there are plenty of easily accessible walking tracks that take you through the region's forests, lakes, rivers, and coastlines, some of which are perfect for the whole family.

So, grab your camera and get ready to capture some unforgettable memories. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a first-time explorer, Murihiku Southland is waiting for you!

Wairaurahiri Jet
Wairaurahiri Jet © Martin Sliva

There is nothing like a personalised story or interactive experience to bring skills, history and landscapes to life. Enrich your southern adventure with one of our tours and experiences for a deeper dive into the…

Walking on Swing Bridge, Mavora Lakes
Mavora Lakes, Northern Southland © Chris Mclennan

In Southland, there is an abundance of walking trails for the hiking-inclined traveller, be it short, day or multi-day walks. All these walks let you sample the region's rich natural heritage, exploring…

Camping on Gertrude Saddle
Gertrude Saddle, Fiordland © Liz Carlson

Whether the coast battered by the great southern ocean, fiords carved by ancient glaciers or the mountains and plateaus shaped by the weather and its local inhabitants, Murihiku Southland reveals some life-lasting…

Farm Animals - Southland, New Zealand
Air New Zealand

Known for its warm ‘small community’ feel, rural Southland is famous for genuine hospitality, hearty meals, entrepreneurial spirit, and stunning natural landscapes. With experiences ranging from alpaca…

Surfing with Dolphins
Great South

Southland is a region shaped by water, its residents and their past-times, the industry and wilderness, all its uniqueness is based on this power of nature. From the snow-capped mountains, flowing rivers…

The history of Southland  Murihiku  is rich and varied and each part of the region has their own unique past. You will find historical buildings located throughout the region. Aside…

Shopping
cottonbro

One of the best ways to get to know an area is to explore the local shops, and Southland is no exception.  Throughout the region are shop owners who display not only international brands but also unique local…

Places to Visit

Invercargill Central
Stacy Williamson

Places to Visit

Invercargill

Waihōpai Invercargill is the regional capital and commercial hub of Southland. Founded in the 1850s, it is New Zealand’s southernmost city - and one of the southernmost cities in the world. Numerous… Read More

Places to Visit

Fiordland

Te Rua-o-te-Moko Fiordland is a place of extraordinary scenic beauty. One of New Zealand’s oldest tourism drawcards, this rugged and remote region offers awe-inspiring landscapes and a wide range of… Read More

Places to Visit

Stewart Island

Rakiura Stewart Island is the southernmost and smallest island of the three main islands of New Zealand. Just 30km from the South Island, it is a perfect retreat for those seeking peace, quiet, and… Read More

Florence Hill Lookout, The Catlins
Florence Hill Lookout, The Catlins

Places to Visit

The Catlins

The Catlins, the spectacular coastal stretch between Balclutha and Invercargill, boasts a rugged beauty and untouched quality that is magnetic. Here you’ll find a world of native forests fringed by high… Read More

Places to Visit

Gore District

Hokonui Gore District, sometimes referred to as Eastern Southland, boasts an eclectic mix of heritage and culture. Famous for its fly-fishing on the Mataura River, its colourful illicit whisky-making past and… Read More

Places to Visit

Bluff

Southland’s port, Motupōhue Bluff, 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… Read More

Central Southland
Sam Deuchrass

Places to Visit

Central Southland

Central Southland is 1.5 million hectares of lush, rolling farmland. The district has always thrived on agriculture, although sawmills, flax and linen-flax industries, lime works, brickworks and tile works… Read More

Mores Scenic Reserve Lookout, Western Southland
Sam Deuchrass

Places to Visit

Western Southland

Tucked between the towering peaks of Fiordland to the west, the Takitimu mountain range to the north, and the wild ocean to the south, Western Southland boasts spectacular unspoilt scenery and limitless… Read More

Places to Visit