Hidden Gems Only Locals Know

When most visitors think of Murihiku Southland, they picture rugged coastlines, lush forests, and the majestic Fiordland mountains.

But beyond the popular spots lie secret corners, quirky treasures, and experiences that only locals tend to know about. If you’re looking to see a side of Southland few tourists do, here’s a local’s guide to hidden gems worth seeking out.

Colac Bay

Tucked away just south of Riverton, Colac Bay is one of Southland’s best-kept secrets. While Riverton draws more visitors, Colac Bay offers a quieter, more authentic coastal experience, where the surf breaks are consistent, the beaches are wide and uncrowded, and sunsets over Foveaux Strait feel like your own private show. Locals love the village for its relaxed vibe, quirky surfer statue, and a charming pub, making it the perfect spot to unwind away from the usual tourist trails. Whether you’re chasing waves, walking along the sand, or simply soaking in the rugged scenery, Colac Bay has the kind of hidden-gem charm that keeps visitors coming back for more.
 

Fortrose Cliffs

Perched on Southland’s southern coast, Fortrose Cliffs reveal a dramatic vantage point that few visitors discover. From the top, the sweeping views of the coastline and Foveaux Strait are breathtaking, but tucked beneath the cliffs you’ll find a quiet, rugged beach, perfect for enjoying the raw coastal scenery in solitude. To reach the top, turn onto the gravel road toward Tokanui Golf Club and continue past it until the road ends. If conditions are dry and you’ve got a capable 4x4, you can carry on up the rough hill track; otherwise, it’s best to park and walk the final stretch (only a couple minutes).
 

Ōmāui

Just a short drive from Invercargill, Ōmāui is a peaceful coastal haven that feels worlds away from the busier Oreti Beach. While Oreti is famous for its long sandy stretch and popular with locals and tourists alike, Ōmāui offers a quieter, more secluded escape, with native bush trails, and sweeping ocean views. It’s the kind of place where you can stroll along the shore, watch seabirds wheel overhead, or simply enjoy the sound of the waves without a crowd in sight. Locals cherish Ōmāui for its untouched charm, making it a true hidden gem for those who love discovering Southland’s serene coastal corners.
 

Gore's Gardens and Parks

Gore may often be passed through on the way to other Southland destinations, but it has some parks worth stopping for. Dolamore Park, in the Hokonui Hills, offers native forests, walking and biking tracks, picnic spots, and camping - perfect for a weekend away. In town, Gore Public Gardens and Bannerman Park feature well-kept, peaceful spaces for a stroll, with Bannerman Park also home to a small herd of red and fallow deer. Hamilton Park has a playground and tracks for walking or biking, while Tulloch Park in Mataura is popular with families thanks to its splash pad.

 

Two Wee Book Shops & Snug, Manapouri

Tucked away in the village of Manapouri, Two Wee Bookshops & The Snug are said to be the two smallest bookshops in Aotearoa, and a beloved spot for locals who enjoy a good browse. The tiniest of the pair is a children’s haven, filled with secondhand books, a cosy little library, and even soft toys that kids can borrow for sleepovers. The slightly larger shop focuses on everything 45 Degrees South and Below, offering a curated mix of new, secondhand, rare, and specialist titles. The shops have a warm, welcoming feel, making it the kind of hidden gem you stumble upon and wish you had more time to explore. Perfect for a quiet browse or picking up a unique book to take on your Fiordland adventures.

Monkey Island

Monkey Island is a tiny, uninhabited island that feels like a secret escape. It can be reached by foot - but only at low tide! A stairway leads to the top of the island, where there are spectacular views of Te Waewae Bay and the mountains of Fiordland, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the water glows with soft light.
 

Teapot Land, Owaka

Teapot Land in Owaka is a delightful hidden gem tucked away in the Catlins. This quirky roadside attraction is the creation of Graham Renwick, who has transformed his front yard into a whimsical garden adorned with over 1,200 teapots during the summer months. The collection is open to the public, and visitors are encouraged to leave a koha (donation) in the kettle and enjoy the unique display.
 

Switzers Museum & Bottle House, Waikaia

Switzers Museum in Waikaia is a hidden gem that offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's gold mining history and local heritage. Established in 2018, the museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts, including tools, photographs, and historical documents, reflecting the area's rich past. A standout feature is the iconic Bottlehouse, constructed from approximately 20,000 wine bottles, adding a unique architectural element to the museum's offerings.
 

Waikaia Commercial Hotel

Can you really say you’ve experienced Southland if you haven’t visited a local pub? The region is full of welcoming spots serving up hearty meals, and the Waikaia Commercial Hotel is no exception. Established in 1881, it’s the last remaining pub of the 23 that once thrived during Waikaia’s gold rush days. This unpretentious, cosy pub is where locals and visitors come together over good food, cold drinks, and friendly conversation - a true taste of rural Southland hospitality.
 

Blag Shag Boutique Cafe, Invercargill

Black Shag Boutique Café in Invercargill is a standout local gem that has quickly become a favourite among both residents and visitors. This intimate café offers a welcoming atmosphere, exceptional coffee, and a menu that highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Beyond its culinary offerings, Black Shag Boutique Café also serves as a platform for local artists, showcasing their work within the café's interior. This fusion of art and food creates a unique cultural experience for visitors.
 

Tulip Farms, Edendale/Wyndham

Every spring, Southland’s countryside bursts into colour as tulip fields come into full bloom. A sight that feels more like the Netherlands than New Zealand. These vibrant fields are one of the region’s best-kept secrets, tucked away on private farmland near Edendale and Wyndham.
Once a year, over Labour Weekend, the gates open for the annual Tulip Farm Open Day, giving locals and visitors a rare chance to wander among the flowers and take the ultimate Instagram snap.

Southland is full of surprises, and exploring the hidden gems locals cherish is the best way to experience the region authentically. From secret beaches and quiet waterfalls to quirky cafés and historic trails, Southland rewards the curious traveller willing to step off the main route.

So next time you’re in the south, ditch the map a little and follow the whispers of local wisdom. You never know what hidden treasures you’ll discover!