Welcome Rock Trails - Southland, New Zealand
Welcome Rock Trails, Northern Southland © Air New Zealand

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

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Sunset at Milford Sound
Sunset at Milford Sound

3 Days & 3 nights in Fiordland

3 Days

Spring/Summer/Autumn

Good things come in threes. So here is a three-day itinerary featuring three ways to enjoy Fiordland by day and by night.

Couple walking on the beach, Bathing Beach - Stewart Island

Romantic getaway in Rakiura Stewart Island

3 Days

Anytime

Rakiura Stewart Island is the place to go with your significant other if you're after a weekend away from the hustle and bustle is the place to go with your significant other. This island is…

Mountain biking in Invercargill

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…

Couple in front of Texaco Truck

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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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.

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Takitimu Mountains - Southland, New Zealand
Jeremy Pierce

From Farms to Fiords

From Farms to Fiords

Looking for a relaxing rural getaway that is both enjoyable and affordable? A farm vacation might be the answer, and it’s only a short drive or flight away. Agritourism is becoming increasingly popular… Read More

Couple at Milford Sound

You're Due South

You're Due South

Are you a Foodie or more of an Explorer at heart? Maybe you’re a History Buff or perhaps you’re happy to be a Free Spirit? Or maybe you want to don your Captain’s hat and rule the crystal… Read More

Welcome Rock Trails - Southland, New Zealand
Welcome Rock Trails, Northern Southland © Air New Zealand

The Big 4 in 4

The Big 4 in 4

The untouched beauty of Southland provides a natural playground, no matter what your passion. As New Zealand’s ultimate outdoors destination for cycling, walking, fishing, photography and… Read More