Trip Ideas & Itineraries
Embark on an unforgettable journey to paradise in Murihiku Southland, where every road leads to extraordinary experiences.
Southland is a land of wonder, and at its heart lies the Southern Scenic Route, a road trip like no other. This iconic route has earned its place as one of the top 10 drives in the world. Whether you have four days or five, any time is the perfect time to set out on this adventure that stretches from Dunedin to Queenstown, embracing the essence of Southland along the way.
Featured Itineraries
3-Day Culinary Itinerary from City to Coast
3 Days
Anytime
Murihiku Southland is blessed with an abundance of coastline, offering breathtaking views, rugged beauty, and a treasure trove of culinary experiences.
Romance & Relaxation in Fiordland
5 Days
275 km
Anytime
A romantic getaway amongst some of the most breathtaking natural landscapes on the planet. Discover the perfect Fiordland itinerary for an indulgent getaway or weekend escape.
3 days Mountain Biking in Southland
3 Days
Anytime
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…
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…
The History Buff
3 Days
340 km
Anytime
The history of Murihiku Southland is rich and varied, with each part of the region embracing their own unique past. View lighthouses and whalers' sites, moonshine distilleries, and Victorian…
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Waihōpai Invercargill, the gateway to Southland's wonders, is a city with a storied history of its own. Did you know that the first instant coffee was born in its very heart? The city's newly redeveloped CBD still offers glimpses of the original factory. Discover Invercargill's unique past through the Invercargill Heritage Trail, where eighteen sites of fascinating interest await. Capture the elegance of Edwardian architecture and immerse yourself in a city woven with a tapestry of 'firsts.'
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Welcome to Waihōpai Invercargill, the vibrant heart of Southland's breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage. Immerse yourself in the beauty of scenic drives, lush gardens, and the warmth of local culture through these inspiring trip ideas and itineraries.
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Gore District, where rural charm meets vibrant culture. Dive into the rich history of Hokonui Moonshine and the tales of bootleggers that shaped this unique area. Explore scenic landscapes and lively art scene that make Gore a must-visit destination.
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Te Ākau Tai Toka The Catlins is a region of dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife. Discover the ancient petrified forest at Curio Bay, cascading waterfalls, and ancient forests that make this area so enchanting.
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Motupōhue Bluff, the southernmost town in New Zealand, is known for its iconic signpost at the start of State Highway 1 and its famous Bluff oysters. Discover the unique charm and rich history of this seaside gem.
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Western Southland is a land of rugged coastlines and lush forests. Discover the hidden treasures and literal gems of Gemstone Beach and the charming town of Riverton, known as the Riviera of the South.
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Northern Southland is where majestic mountains and serene rivers create a paradise for nature lovers. Explore the picturesque towns of Lumsden and Garston, and experience the best of this stunning region with its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities.
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Central Southland is a region of rolling farmlands and friendly communities. Discover the charm of Winton, along with local attractions, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences that showcase the heart of Southland.
For the history buffs, Southland is a treasure trove of captivating heritage trails. Each one weaves a vivid narrative of the region, its people, and its deep-rooted connection to the land. Take, for example, the Bluff Heritage Trail, a journey through the rich history of this famous seaport town. With seventeen stops to explore, you'll encounter ship graveyards, ancient churches, century-old buildings, and whispering shipwrecks. This is a must-visit if you've longed for the scent of salt air and the exhilarating sea breeze in your hair.
Invercargill, the gateway to Southland's wonders, is a city with a storied history of its own. Did you know that the first instant coffee was born in its very heart? The city's newly redeveloped CBD still offers glimpses of the original factory. Discover Invercargill's unique past through the Invercargill Heritage Trail, where eighteen sites of fascinating interest await. Capture the elegance of Edwardian architecture and immerse yourself in a city woven with a tapestry of 'firsts.'
Nature will embrace you throughout your Southland roadtrip. Rare wildlife and secluded gems will gift you moments of serenity. From cascading waterfalls, playful dolphins, and prehistoric forests to the songs of rare birds, guiding lighthouses, and star-studded nights, Southland promises an abundance of experiences that will leave you in awe.
Let the open roads of Murihiku Southland be your gateway to a world of beauty, history, and the untamed wonders of nature at its wildest.
4-Day Autumn Culinary Journey
Discover the flavours of Southland this autumn with a 4-day culinary itinerary through Invercargill, Bluff, Riverton, and Gore. From Bluff oysters and pāua cheese rolls to moonshine tastings and forest walks… Read More
Wild Freedom | Trade Itinerary
A two-day adventure from Te Anau to Riverton along Southland's Southern Scenic Route. Packed with jet boat rides, horse treks, surf lessons, and local hospitality. It's a rugged, real journey through… Read More
Heartland Agritourism Adventure
Keen to get off the beaten track? This adventure will take you into the outdoors and fresh air of rural Southland, making you wonder why you hadn’t done it sooner. Read More
4 days Adventure Mountain Biking in Southland
For those who are looking for longer, scenic rides to challenge their fitness this 4-day itinerary around Southland’s dramatic landscape offers the perfect setting for your next cycling holiday… Read More
Tour the Southern Scenic Route
All roads lead to paradise, and in this case it certainly looks like paradise. The Southern Scenic Route has been ranked as one of the top 10 touring routes of the world, and for good reason. Read More
3-Day Culinary Itinerary
This three-day itinerary takes you from Invercargill to Bluff, the seafood haven, Riverton's coastal charm, and Fiordland's rugged flavours. Read More
Day Trip to The Catlins
The Catlins, the spectacular coastal stretch between Balclutha and Invercargill, boasts a rugged beauty and untouched quality that is magnetic. Read More
Invercargill & Rural | Trade Itinerary
Experience Invercargill and rural Southland in one day with vintage cars, coastal walks, seed-to-sip whiskey tastings, and Southern hospitality, ending the day with a comfortable stay. Read More
Southern Scenic Route by EV
The Southern Scenic Route is one of the top 10 touring routes in the world, and we can tell you it is super EV friendly. From lush rainforests and deserted beaches to pristine lakes and chiselled cliffs… Read More
Crazy about the Catlins
Departing the big smoke of Invercargill, my eye is drawn to the waving harakeke flax bushes that edge the farmlands down in the deep deep south. I’m road tripping to the Catlins and there are amazing… Read More
4-Day Autumn Culinary Journey
Discover the flavours of Southland this autumn with a 4-day culinary itinerary through Invercargill, Bluff, Riverton, and Gore. From Bluff oysters and pāua cheese rolls to moonshine tastings and forest walks… Read More
Wild Freedom | Trade Itinerary
A two-day adventure from Te Anau to Riverton along Southland's Southern Scenic Route. Packed with jet boat rides, horse treks, surf lessons, and local hospitality. It's a rugged, real journey through… Read More
Heartland Agritourism Adventure
Keen to get off the beaten track? This adventure will take you into the outdoors and fresh air of rural Southland, making you wonder why you hadn’t done it sooner. Read More
4 days Adventure Mountain Biking in Southland
For those who are looking for longer, scenic rides to challenge their fitness this 4-day itinerary around Southland’s dramatic landscape offers the perfect setting for your next cycling holiday… Read More
Tour the Southern Scenic Route
All roads lead to paradise, and in this case it certainly looks like paradise. The Southern Scenic Route has been ranked as one of the top 10 touring routes of the world, and for good reason. Read More
3-Day Culinary Itinerary
This three-day itinerary takes you from Invercargill to Bluff, the seafood haven, Riverton's coastal charm, and Fiordland's rugged flavours. Read More
Day Trip to The Catlins
The Catlins, the spectacular coastal stretch between Balclutha and Invercargill, boasts a rugged beauty and untouched quality that is magnetic. Read More
Invercargill & Rural | Trade Itinerary
Experience Invercargill and rural Southland in one day with vintage cars, coastal walks, seed-to-sip whiskey tastings, and Southern hospitality, ending the day with a comfortable stay. Read More
Southern Scenic Route by EV
The Southern Scenic Route is one of the top 10 touring routes in the world, and we can tell you it is super EV friendly. From lush rainforests and deserted beaches to pristine lakes and chiselled cliffs… Read More
Crazy about the Catlins
Departing the big smoke of Invercargill, my eye is drawn to the waving harakeke flax bushes that edge the farmlands down in the deep deep south. I’m road tripping to the Catlins and there are amazing… Read More