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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The mohua (yellowhead) is a small songbird that is characterised by their bright yellow-green chests and heads. With its distinctive appearance, this special bird is a highly sought-after species for birdwatchers and conservationists. The mohua is endemic to New Zealand and is mainly found in forest…
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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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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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Being the second largest region in New Zealand means there are plenty of instagrammable or Instagram-worthy spots in Southland that are just waiting to be captured and hashtagged with #mysouthland and #southlandnz Here are our top 10 most Instagrammable spots in Southland. If you think you have…
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Southland has a diverse landscape with its rugged cliff beaches in the Catlins to the lush native forests in Western Southland. Whether you are after incredible vistas of beaches, wildlife, mountains or National Parks, stopping at one of our lookout spots will only enhance your view of Southland…
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For a region famous for its dramatic landscapes, it is not hard to find many free things to see and do. So, if you feel a little adventurous but frugal, we’ve got you covered. Usually, we recommend starting the day with freshly made coffee from one of Southland's amazing cafes. Still, today is about…
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