Heritage in Bluff

Bluff was an important site of cross-cultural encounter in the first half of the nineteenth century, with early European settlers and local Māori trading and living in close proximity.

This early Māori presence runs deep and provides many areas of historical interest around the region. Further historical attractions include a World War 2 gun pit and the Bluff Maritime Museum. This fantastic museum contains an extensive collection of models, boats, artefacts, and displays, including a working triple expansion engine, information about the many early shipwrecks around Bluff, and a full sized oystering boat, the Monica, to explore.

Explore Heritage in Bluff

  • 39 Ward Parade, Stirling Point
  • (03) 211 0895

The Bluff Heritage Trail consists of 17 fascinating historic sites around one of New Zealand's earliest settlements and features points of interest from the life and family of Bluff"s most famous person, Sir Joseph Ward. Joseph Ward entered politics in 1878 when he was elected to…

  • 180 Flagstaff Road
  • (03) 211 0895

Bluff Hill Motupōhue provides visitors to the area with spectacular views over Foveaux Strait and the Southland Plains, a well-established walking track network, a mountain bike park, a car park and interpretation panels. Original native forest, wind-battered coast and…

  • 120 Gore Street
  • +64 27 294 5306

Bluff Lodge offers comfortable and friendly accommodation that"s great value - perfect for the budget-conscious traveller! We provide visitors from around New Zealand and the world with a good bed, a good shower, and a friendly smile, all at a good price. With a choice of dorm…

  • 241 Foreshore Road
  • (03) 212 7534

This museum contains a wide variety of maritime displays, artefacts, miniature models, boats, and photographs. Exhibits include whaling, oystering, the many shipwrecks around the challenging southern coast, the construction of the Bluff Harbour Board, and a working triple…

  • Tiwai Point

The Dog Island Lighthouse on Dog Island in Foveaux Strait is New Zealand's tallest lighthouse, and one of its oldest. Dog Island Lighthouse is one of the most distinct lighthouses in New Zealand. Dog Island Lighthouse is not accessible to the public, but on a fine day it can be…