Spring offers green valleys, snowy mountains and longer, warmer days.

September to November

Temperatures between 10°C and 20°C

Spring has sprung in Southland, and the entire region bursts with life! Gone are the crisp days of winter, replaced by a gentle warmth that coaxes nature out of its slumber. The air thrums with the joyous song of native birds, and the landscape transforms into a vibrant tapestry of colour. Amidst the rolling hills and majestic mountains, spring unfolds in a vibrant display, offering a unique and delightful experience for visitors and locals alike. Here's why Southland should be your top destination for a spring adventure.

A Season of Renewal

Spring in Southland unfolds between September and November, offering a delightful mix of cool mornings and sunny afternoons. Temperatures hover between 10°C and 20°C, it's the perfect time to shed winter layers and outdoor activities without the harsh summer sun. Pack a light jacket for the mornings and evenings, but don't forget your sunglasses and sunhat – spring in Southland is all about soaking up the sunshine.  It's a season of new beginnings, where the air is filled with the sweet scent of blossoms and the cheerful melodies of native birdsong. 

Southland transforms into a photographer's paradise. Fields of vibrant tulips around Invercargill and Gore District paint the landscape in shades of red, yellow, and orange. Daffodils and cherry blossoms add their cheerful notes, transforming gardens and parks into fragrant havens. Take a scenic drive through the countryside or stroll through Queens Park in Invercargill to witness this floral spectacle.

Springtime Celebrations:

Southland in springtime is a fantastic backdrop for all sorts of events. Weekends come alive with things to do at the places you want to be - cast a line from shore as the tide rolls in, on the lake, or as the river runs. It’s freedom, solitude, and camaraderie all wrapped into one. We are the home of the ultimate weekend getaway.

• Rakiura Challenge Trail Run: Conquer one of New Zealand’s famous Great Walks in a single day. The country's southern-most trail run is the ultimate weekend getaway.
• Te Anau Manapouri Fishing Classic: The Stabicraft Marine Te Anau Manapouri Fishing Classic, held every Labour Weekend, is the perfect opportunity to soak up majestic views of Fiordland and the Te Anau Basin.
• ILT Southland's Darts Masters: See some of the best darts players in New Zealand — each entering the arena to the sounds of their unique walk-on music. There’s a huge party atmosphere coming to the Ascot Park Hotel in October. 
• SBS Bank Tour of Southland: More than 100 riders. Over 800 kilometres. 7 action-packed days. This is one of New Zealand’s largest, toughest and most prestigious cycling events.

Uniquely Southland:

• Lambing Season: Southland is the home of Agritourism in New Zealand. Spring is prime lambing season, and a trip to Southland wouldn't be complete without witnessing these adorable fluffy creatures frolicking in the lush green pastures. Several farms offer tours where you can learn about sheep farming and meet these playful lambs.
• Exploring Fiordland National Park: Spring, with its clear skies and mild temperatures, is perfect for hiking. While the Great Walks, such as the Milford Track or Kepler Track, may be fully booked by Spring, Fiordland offers numerous day walks worth exploring. You can also go for a kayak through Milford Sound while marvelling at cascading waterfalls and ancient rainforests awakening from winter slumber.
• Hoiho Spotting: Observe Hoiho Yellow-Eyed Penguins as they come ashore on the 180-million-year-old Petrified Forest at Curio Bay in The Catlins. Yellow-eyed Penguins start preparing the new nest for the season in August, with eggs typically laid in early Spring. Over Spring, both parents will take turns incubating on the shore at Curio Bay. The South Catlin's Charitable Trust is usually on-site to answer any questions during the breeding season.
• Bird Song on Ulva Island: With the snow finally melted, an increased food supply, and a rising temperature, Spring is the ultimate bird spotters' dream season. With increased activity as the birds start mating for the season, keen listeners will be able to hear the mating calls of many of our endangered native New Zealand birds, such as the South Island Saddleback, Yellowhead, Rifleman, Stewart Island Robin, and Stewart Island Brown Kiwi.
• Learn to Fly Fish: Few anglers can resist the lure - clear, clean rivers and streams teeming with trout ribbon the Southland region. Southland is a fishing paradise that attracts anglers from across the globe to its clear-running, trout-laden rivers. With many Southland rivers coming into open season, Spring is the perfect time to get out on the water with a local guide and hook some of our world-renowned trout.

A Taste of Spring:

• Fresh Southland Produce: Spring brings an abundance of fresh, local produce. Sample sweet blueberries, crisp lettuces, and crunchy carrots – a true celebration of the region's agricultural bounty.
• Southland Seafood Delights: Celebrate the bounty of the sea with succulent Stewart Island salmon, pan-seared Blue Cod, or a traditional Southland seafood chowder.
• Southland Cheese Roll: Embark on an adventure through Southland cafes and discover why we love our Cheese Roll so much. 

Planning your Spring Retreat

Visit the charming seaside town of Bluff, known for its world-famous oysters. Go jet boating down the Wairaurahiri River, experiencing an exhilarating 94km jet boat ride to the sea and back through the heart of the beautiful Fiordland National Park.

Spring in Southland is an invitation to reconnect with nature, savour delicious local produce, and celebrate the season's bounty. With its vibrant landscapes, unique experiences, and warm hospitality, Southland offers an unforgettable springtime escape. So, pack your walking shoes and your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the magic of Southland in bloom!