Mores Scenic Reserve Lookout, Western Southland
Mores Scenic Reserve Lookout © Sam Deuchrass

Western Southland

Tucked between the towering peaks of Fiordland to the west, the Takitimu mountain range to the north, and the wild ocean to the south, Western Southland boasts spectacular unspoilt scenery and limitless opportunities for exploring. This region is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, offering a diverse landscape that ranges from rugged coastlines and lush forests to serene lakes and rolling farmlands. The area is rich in history and culture, with many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Discover

Western Southland

The seaside town of Aparima Riverton is one of the most popular towns in Western Southland. Thirty kilometres from Invercargill, the township is set in a picturesque location that spans Jacob's River Estuary, framed by the vast, sweeping coastline. The fondly named "Riviera of the South" is home to an interesting mix of artists and fishermen and is a great place for the whole family to unwind and have fun.

Further down the coast, Oraka Colac Bay is one of New Zealand's top surfing spots. Nearby Orepuki offers a pit stop in the form of a fantastic café, and the surrounding areas provide various natural attractions such as Te Puka a Takitimu Monkey IslandCosy Nook, and Gemstone Beach - and don't miss the commanding views and photo opportunities at McCracken's Rest. Look carefully from Te Waewae Bay, and you may just catch a glimpse of New Zealand's largest pod of Pahu Hector's Dolphins. Then, follow the Waiau River to Tuatapere, the launch pad, to access the area's variety of natural environments and adventure activities.

Whether it's seeking an adrenaline rush by jet boating down the Wairaurahiri River, surfing a big wave in one of the beautiful bays, discovering the local underground cave system, or tramping through some of the most stunning scenery in New Zealand, Western Southland is an ideal base for a Southland adventure!

You won't want to miss...

When planning your trip to Western Southland, make sure you check out these iconic and unmissable events!

Western Southland Townships

Riverton, Western Southland
Liz Carlson

Riverton

Thirty kilometres from Invercargill, the seaside town of Riverton (Aparima) is one of the most…

Tuatapere sign
Welcome to Tūātapere sign

Tuatapere

Tuatapere sits on the edge of wilderness amid spectacular unspoilt scenery and lush rolling…

Gemstone Beach, Orepuki
Gemstone Beach, Orepuki

Orepuki

Orepuki is a tiny settlement in Southland on the coast of Te Waewae Bay, surrounded by the…

Blueberry picking
Blueberry Picking in Otautau

Otautau

Otautau is a peaceful little town in rural Southland, also known as “The Heart of Western…

Surfing at Colac Bay
Air New Zealand

Colac Bay

Ōraka Colac Bay has a long history of Māori settlement and was a booming town in the late 1800s…

Western Southland Roadtrips

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The Rugged Rural

3 Days

295 km

Anytime

Roll up your sleeves and prepare to get your hands dirty as this road trip takes you into the heart of the Southland backcountry. Dust your Swanndri off and immerse yourself in an authentic…

The Island Hopper

3 Days

95 km

Anytime

Time for an overseas holiday? Dreaming of island hopping? Look no further than your backyard. Take a flight or board a boat to discover the secluded sights of Ulva Island & Stewart Island…

Takitimu Mountains - Southland, New Zealand
Jeremy Pierce

From Farms to Fiords

1-3 Days

325 km

Spring/Summer

Discover the rural farm life in Southland via the Southern Scenic Route as you sit back, relax and reconnect with nature. After you enjoy this rural tourism itinerary, you will return to…

The Southern Scenic Route by EV

5 Days

785 km

Anytime

The Southern Scenic Route has been voted one of the top 10 touring routes in the world, and we can tell you this 5-day itinerary is super EV friendly.

Perenuka Mountain Bike Park
Perenuka Mountain Bike Park - Credit Great South

4 days Adventure Mountain Biking in Southland

4 Days

Summer

For those who like a challenging mix of off-road climbing and technical descents across all types of terrain this epic 3-day mountain biking itinerary takes you to three of Southlands most…

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Explore Murihiku Southland

Here in the South, you'll find an abundance of sights and activities to explore. Take the time to uncover all its hidden wonders and prepare to be awestruck by what this area has to offer.

Invercargill Central
Stacy Williamson

Invercargill

Waihōpai Invercargill is the regional capital and commercial hub of Southland. Founded in the 1850s, it is New Zealand’s southernmost city - and one of the southernmost cities in the world. Numerous… Read More

Milford Sound - Kayak
Rosco's Milford Sound Kayaks, Fiordland

Fiordland

Te Rua-o-te-Moko Fiordland is a place of extraordinary scenic beauty. One of New Zealand’s oldest tourism drawcards, this rugged and remote region offers awe-inspiring landscapes and a wide range of… Read More

Stewart Island

Rakiura Stewart Island is the southernmost and smallest island of the three main islands of New Zealand. Just 30km from the South Island, it is a perfect retreat for those seeking peace, quiet, and… Read More

Florence Hill Lookout, The Catlins
Florence Hill Lookout, The Catlins

The Catlins

Te Akau Tai Toka The Catlins, the spectacular coastal stretch between Balclutha and Invercargill, boasts a rugged beauty and untouched quality that is just magnetic. Here, you’ll find a world of native… Read More

Gore District

Maruawai Gore and its surrounding district, sometimes called Eastern Southland, boasts an eclectic mix of heritage, culture, and industry. It is famous for its fly-fishing on the Mataura River, colourful… Read More

Bluff

Southland’s port, Motupōhue Bluff, lies thirty kilometres south of Invercargill. The town, which is the southernmost settlement on mainland New Zealand, is home to the iconic Bluff Oyster & Food… Read More

Central Southland
Forest Hill Scenic Reserve © Sam Deuchrass

Central Southland

Central Southland is 1.5 million hectares of lush, rolling farmland. The district has always thrived on agriculture, although sawmills, flax and linen-flax industries, lime works, brickworks and tile works… Read More