When the summer days feel like they’re never-ending, which is easily explained by the abundant 14 hours of daylight, an epic road trip is the ultimate way to make the most of them.
The Southern Scenic Route is the perfect choice for any traveller, whether you’re an adventure seeker, a foodie, or a bit of a history buff. This 665-kilometre-long route is one of the world’s top-ranked drives.
Start your adventure in The Catlins, where you’ll be greeted with many cascading waterfalls, such as Pūrākaunui Falls and McLean Falls, and wonderful wildlife, like the rare Hoiho yellow-eyed penguins. Catch a wave down here; there’s even a chance you’ll be joined by a pod of Pahu Hector’s dolphins. During Waitangi weekend, soulful tunes can be heard at the Niagara Falls Bluegrass and Roots Festival, with musicians from all over the country coming down to the rugged Catlins.
Southern Scenic Route
Packed full with amazing natural and cultural attractions and exciting activities, this incredible road trip is one of the best drives in the world.
Travel further along the rugged coastlines, and you'll find yourself in Invercargill. Highlights include the world-class vintage motor vehicle displays at Bill Richardson Transport World and Classic Motorcycle Mecca, the drivable Oreti Beach and magnificent Queen's Park. If you're into motorcycles, the Burt Munro Challenge is the event for you, an iconic event dedicated to the God of Speed.
After getting that Instagram-famous snap at Stirling Point in Bluff, make your way to Aparima Riverton, the "Riviera of the South". This seaside town is a fantastic family destination, but it's also a "wave-riders" paradise, with Colac Bay, one of New Zealand's top surfing spots, just around the corner. Music fans can rejoice, knowing the Revitalize Music Festival is held in early January in a majestic Western Southland setting under the Takitimu mountains.
Pūrākaunui Falls
The Pūrākaunui Falls is one of New Zealand's iconic, most-photographed sights. The 15-minute return…
Bill Richardson Transport World
If you're looking for things to do in Invercargill then you can't miss Bill Richardson Transport…
Oreti Beach
Oreti Beach is a coastal playground just minutes from Invercargill's city centre. The beach is a…
Stirling Point
Stirling Point is located at the beginning (or end) of New Zealand's State Highway 1, in the small…
Milford Track
Experience "the finest walk in the world" as you retrace the steps of early explorers on the…
Kepler Track
Vast tussock-covered ridgelines and spectacular alpine vistas contrast with peaceful lakeside and…
All these adventures are sure to stir up your appetite. Being a true food lovers' paradise, you can take your pick of exceptional tasting, grass-fed lamb, prime pasture-fed beef, and the finest Fiordland venison at vibrant cafes, picturesque country pubs and fine-dining restaurants in down-to-earth settings. However, a Southland road trip is incomplete without savouring a cheese roll! Afterwards, head west into the majestic Te Rua-o-te-moko Fiordland, where mountains and fiords await.
Te Anau and Manapouri make excellent base camps for further exploration. Taking it slow provides a chance for genuine rejuvenation. These towns provide the perfect launchpad to explore the iconic fiords. Drive the stunning route to Piopiotahi Milford Sound or traverse Lake Manapouri to reach Patea Doubtful Sound. Ensure you embark on a cruise to fully experience these remarkable environments and the local fauna.
Home to three Great Walks – the Milford, Routeburn, and Kepler Track – Fiordland invites you to journey through ancient rainforests, past waterfalls, and serene lakes. Each step immerses you in pristine wilderness, a rare opportunity to connect with Fiordland National Park's unspoiled beauty. If lugging a multi-day backpack and bunking in a DOC Hut isn't your style, you're in luck. Many sections of the Great Walks can be tackled as day hikes.
As each action-packed day ends, remember to cast your gaze upward. You'll witness a mesmerizing tapestry of twinkling stars unlike any you've ever seen. The minimal light pollution in this region creates perfect conditions for stargazing.
For a summer road trip like no other, with never-ending days and chances to explore, come on down to Southland and discover New Zealand's best-kept secrets.
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