As New Zealand’s ultimate nature and wildlife destination, Southland’s scenery spans lush rainforests, fertile farmlands, and rugged coastlines. Surrounded by ocean and pasture, it really is the land of plenty, the ultimate Surf‘n’Turf destination, if you will. Enjoy succulent kaimoana, like the…
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Breathe in and feel the exhilaration grow as your eyes adjust to the darkness. Above you, an endless canvas of stars is splattered across the sky as your Murihiku Southland stargazing experience bursts into full celestial bloom. You might even get a front-row seat for the greatest natural light show…
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Summer is all about outdoor adventures and long, sun-filled days. December to February Temperatures between 15°C and 25°C With long sunny days, a diverse landscape, great food and drink and plenty of outdoor activities, Murihiku Southland is the perfect summer destination. While the region doesn't…
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While the Northern Lights are well known throughout the world and are often on people’s bucket lists, its Southern counterpart, the Aurora Australis, is no less spectacular. This natural phenomenon lights up the sky with ribbons of pink, red and green light. This is due to solar wind passing through…
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Did you know that there are more species of penguins that call New Zealand home than any other country? We are particularly blessed with these beautiful birds here in Southland as we have three species that can be found on our shores. The tawaki Fiordland crested penguins can be found along the…
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The flightless takahē is a unique bird, a conservation icon and a survivor that is endemic to New Zealand. Its body is covered in dark feathers with a distinctive blue-green sheen. The bird has a robust build, strong legs, and a thick, red bill. Thought to be extinct for nearly half a century…
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The kākāpō is a native bird species in New Zealand and the world’s largest and heaviest parrot, growing to around 60 centimeters high and weighing up to 4 kilograms. These magnificent birds sport bright green plumage and possess almost clownlike feet. The bird's most distinctive feature is its face…
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Without a doubt, New Zealand’s most famous bird, the kiwi has become ubiquitous in Kiwi culture. There are five species of Kiwi and the Tokoeka species calls Southland home. Each species has distinct characteristics and habitats. Kiwi are small flightless birds, measuring around 45 to 55 centimeters…
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New Zealanders love their coffee. You might think we're a tea-drinking nation (hello British heritage) but over the past few decades, coffee has surpassed tea as our favourite hot drink. This increased popularity of coffee has seen new cafés and coffee-roasting spots popping up all over the country…
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Go inland Southland and get up high. Southland from about the skyline offers some spectacular rural scenic views. Poppelwells lookout in Dolamore Park provides amazing views of the Southland Plains and on a clear day you can even see Stewart Island/ Rakiura. Forest Hill Scenic Reserve is a valuable…
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