Northern Southland is flanked by beautiful rolling farmland and the majestic Takitimu mountains. The Mataura River is widely considered the best dry fly fishing river in the world and the surrounding hills and waterways provide bush-clad outdoor adventure sites popular with trampers, anglers, campers and boaties.

Cycling

With some of the premier cycling trails and mountain bike tracks in the country, riders can meander through high country farms, scenic lakes, rivers and diverse landscapes. The stunning Northern Southland scenery can be enhanced by over-nighting in the back country huts sprinkled along the way.

Fly Fishing

Widely considered the best dry fly fishing river in the world and the surrounding hills and waterways provide bush-clad outdoor adventure sites popular with trampers, anglers, campers and boaties. With easy public access, plentiful fish and water so clear it is often described as ‘gin-clear’.

Quaint Rural Towns

The townships of Lumsden, Athol, Garston, Mossburn and Kingston are dotted with friendly country cafes serving up fresh kiwi cuisine to visitors and locals alike, while the small local shops are full of unique wares. 

Agricultural Heritage

Sprinkled among the busy agricultural landscape are echoes of the rolling past, with rail and agricultural machines and architecture heralding the efforts of the Southland pioneers.

The Great Outdoors

Though on the doorstep of the resort Queenstown, Northern Southland is full of real rugged New Zealand, so take time to visit the back country in places like the Mavora Lakes, Waikaia or Nokomai.