Southland Winter: A Wonderland You Won't Expect

June to August

Temperatures between 10°C and 0°C

There's something about a Southland winter. It's a time when things slow down a bit, there's a real sense of connection, and you can't help but feel the pull of nature's wild side. Down here, we do things our way—laid-back, friendly, and full of southern charm—and winter's no exception. As the seasons shift, days get shorter, and a crisp chill fills the air, Murihiku Southland transforms. Unlike other parts of the country that experience mild winters, Southland wholeheartedly embraces the colder months, cloaking itself in a frosty embrace and inviting visitors to experience a winter wonderland unlike any other.

Southland serves up a winter cracker, whether you're a local seeking a fresh take on the season or you're keen to ditch the crowds and dive into the wild. With multi-day festivals, some of the best stargazing in the world, easy access to the slopes (just two hours from Invercargill), and plenty of belly-warming food, there's something for everyone. So, rug up, bring your merinos, and come on down and explore winter Southland style.

Unmissable Events in Southland: A Winter Dose of Culture

Beyond Southland's jaw-dropping scenery, winter serves up a real mixed bag of unmissable events. If you're a sucker for anything country music, you've gotta head to Gore – the country music capital of New Zealand – for the ten-day Tussock Country Music Festival. It's a massive celebration of Kiwi culture, filled with music, fine art, heritage, top-notch hospitality, whiskey tastings and even some high-street fashion. With over 30 events, including the legendary Gold Guitar Awards, that old line "there's a bit of something for everyone" has never been more spot on. Held annually in July, the Hokonui Fashion Design Awards is where all the up-and-coming amateur fashion designers get to strut their stuff and show their designs to some pretty big names in the industry. If you have a passion for fashion, don't miss out on planning your winter trip to Southland.

Our Food Story: A Taste of Southland's Bounty

Southland's culinary scene is another delightful aspect of winter. After a day full of adventure, indulge in our region's rich kai. With a coastline stretching over 3,600 kilometres and covering 12% of New Zealand's landmass, Murihiku Southland is a proper food-lover's paradise. The region boasts an abundance of fresh, local produce that finds its way onto plates in innovative and heartwarming dishes.

Enjoy the succulent seafood, world-famous meat and game, and the freshest and crunchiest veges. Savour the world-famous Bluff oysters, known for their plump size and delicate flavour. Enjoy them fresh, natural, or with a squeeze of lemon for a taste of pure indulgence. Sample the tender meat of Fiordland wapiti, a type of red deer native to the Fiordland National Park. This succulent meat, often prepared as a roast or steak, is sure to tantalise your taste buds. Or try some other local delicacies such as cheese rolls, swedes, and Foveaux Blue Cod - all dished up with a good dash of Southern hospitality.

Whether raised or grown on the land, hunted, fished, or produced, our food story is connected to people and place. It really is the land of plenty, the ultimate Surf 'n' Turf destination. No matter if you're a seafood enthusiast or prefer farm-fresh produce, there's something for everyone. Experience the joy of doing more, eating well, and sleeping peacefully under our stunning night sky.

Epic Adventures: Wild Encounters and Wide-Open Spaces

Visiting Southland in winter is an absolute ‘must do’ for anyone passionate about the natural world and authentic encounters. Our region serves up adventures that are both wild and wonderful, with a touch of that special Southland charm.

Waihōpai Invercargill, New Zealand's southernmost city, is the ultimate springboard to some truly epic experiences. From here, the possibilities stretch out in every direction. And Te Anau isn’t just a base—it’s the start of something truly epic. Venture deep into Te Rua-o-te-Moko Fiordland in the west to experience the grandeur of its fiords. You can tackle one of the Great Walks (though some are closed in winter due to alpine conditions), paddle across mirror-like lakes, or explore glowworm caves.   

Southland's wild coast is a highlight in any season, and winter offers a unique perspective. It's a time when you can truly appreciate the raw beauty of the ocean and encounter its incredible inhabitants. This coast is home to an array of marine life, including sea lions, Pahu Hector’s Dolphins and the distinctive Hoiho Yellow-Eyed Penguin. Tumu Toka Curioscape in Curio Bay is an essential stop for all visitors to the south. This world-class interpretive centre intends to educate and share the unique stories of Curio Bay, its wildlife, people, and history. Within the Gateway Experience, touch screens allow you to tailor your experience, and the immersive theatre is a must-see.

As the nights get longer, take a trip to Stewart Island to spot the rare kiwi bird in its natural habitat. Southland is known for amazing views with its seemingly endless daytime sky that turns into a stargazer's paradise by night. From Fiordland in the west to Stewart Island in the south, our region offers one of the darkest locations in the world to view the night sky - as the centre of the galaxy passes almost directly over your head. The spectacular stargazing and Aurora Australis spotting make winter in Southland even more special. When darkness falls, the celestial theatre comes alive with the mesmerizing dance of the Southern Lights. With extended hours of darkness, you have ample opportunity to lose yourself in the awe-inspiring spectacle above.   

Our region is home to nearly half of New Zealand's Great Walks! Most of these close over Winter due to potentially dangerous alpine crossings and avalanches. However, one of these amazing walks is open year-round: the Rakiura Track. Stewart Island’s weather is cool yet settled during the winter months, making the Rakiura Track a great winter escape.

It may appear Invercargill is obsessed with anything that has wheels. Delve into the city’s passion for all things motorized with a visit to Bill Richardson Transport World, which holds the largest private collection of its type in the world, or see the illustrious display of motorcycles at Classic Motorcycle Mecca. Check out Invercargill's motorcycle legend of speed, Burt Munro, at E. Hayes and Sons Motorworks.

And while Southland itself may not have ski fields, it doesn't mean you have to miss out on your winter sports activities. Head down to Ice Sports Southland at Gore Multisports Complex and try your hand (or broom) at curling or strap your skates and show off your double axel turns. This family-friendly activity is the perfect way to embrace the winter spirit and create lasting memories with your loved ones. As the day draws to a close, unwind and soak in the warmth of a hot tub surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Several locations throughout Southland offer this unique and rejuvenating experience, allowing you to melt away the day's chills and reconnect with nature's tranquil beauty.

Soulful Connections

Down here, authenticity means more intimate and soulful connections. On the southern edge, you can slow down, connect deeply, and find yourself. Experience the true essence of Murihiku, where every moment is an opportunity to connect with the land, its people, and those around you. Whether you're walking through ancient forests, stargazing under clear skies, or exploring our rich culture and heritage, Murihiku offers a place to rediscover your soul and build meaningful relationships. Embrace the warmth of our communities, where genuine connections and shared experiences create lasting memories.

So, if you're looking to ditch the crowds, connect with nature, and experience a winter that's a bit different, a bit more real, then Southland's calling. Come on down and discover the magic for yourself. Your epic winter adventure starts here!