Motupōhue | Bluff

Southland’s port Motupōhue Bluff lies thirty kilometres south of Invercargill. The town, the southernmost settlement on mainland New Zealand, is home to the iconic Bluff Oyster & Food Festival and is the “Gateway to Rakiura Stewart Island” via a twice-daily ferry service.

The area has been permanently occupied since the establishment of a whaling station in 1836. Originally named Campbelltown, the local moniker “Bluff” (in reference to the prominent 265m conical hill the township nestles beside) became the town’s official name in 1917. As one of the oldest European settlements in New Zealand, Bluff has a rich history and many interesting attractions. It also offers many wonderful short walks, both bush and coastal, that showcase the stunning scenery and views.

The most photographed spot in Bluff is the famous signpost at Stirling Point, a highlight for any visitor to the South. The signpost points out distances to major cities around the world and marks the beginning of State Highway 1, New Zealand’s main highway, traversing the whole length of the country all the way to Cape Reinga in the far north.

The Bluff oyster is reputed to be the best in the world and New Zealand’s national treasure. Originating in the pristine, cool waters of the Foveaux Strait, one of the few natural oyster beds in the world, Bluff oysters are known for their unique flavour that is loved around the globe. You can enjoy this delicacy each year between March and August.