Feel on top of the world at this beautiful reserve that offers excellent views over the coast and the surrounding land, as well as great short walks.
In Southland, there are many famous great walks for the hiking inclined traveler, but there is also a selection of short, easily accessible walking tracks that still encourage you to sample the region's rich natural heritage. These walks explore mountains, forests, lakes, rivers, sandy beaches and rocky shorelines, with some having picnic areas or campgrounds so you can be sure to spend all the time you need discovering this beautiful part of the world.
Some of the most beautiful Southland walks are perfect for the whole family. What could be more relaxing than to take a quiet stroll along a short walking track such as Borland Nature Walk or picnic amongst birdsong after walking at the Forest Hill Scenic Reserve. One of the best short family walks in Southland would have to be at Mores Scenic Reserve because of the gorgeous native birdsong, large picnic area and amazing lookout point views. However, there are many other short tracks that are easy for all ages so that everyone can get a taste of Southern Nature.
The forest represents the native bush once found on limestone outcrops throughout the Southland Plains and is popular with walkers and runners.
An easy, 40 minute loop track through native forest and over a picturesque creek that is partially wheelchair accessible.
Southland also boasts some excellent short walks for those looking for more of our natural features and history. Some of these such walks are at Slope Point, where there are the famously photographed windswept trees and both coastal and forest walks to choose from. The following suggestions are all great locations for nature lovers to experience multiple short walks.
Slope Point is the southernmost point on the South Island of New Zealand and offers spectacular views of the surrounding ocean and coastline.
This trail runs between Niagara and Fortrose, an area rich in history and scenic beauty. To fully appreciate all 13 trail sites allow about 5 hours.
The Point's often-photographed historic lighthouse, first lit on 1 January 1884, is nestled beside sweeping golden beaches and snoozing sea lions.
It can be hard to know what walks are going to be dog-friendly and whether you are traveling or a local it can waste precious time to get to a beautiful nature walk only to find your dog can’t enter. Some great places to take your four-legged friend for a walk including Otepuni Gardens and Anderson Park. Queens Park is also great because of its excellent activities and native birdsong.
Since 1979, Balfour School children have been responsible for the development of a walking track at this reserve on the slopes of Glenure Hill.
This walking track starts at the northern end of Hamilton Park and follows the Waikaka River exiting into Toronto Street.
A sheltered picnic area among local native bush.
Even in Southland’s more hidden locations, you can find short walks to do. Scattered throughout the Catlins and Stewart Island are many short but rewarding and interesting walks.
Horse and coach teams once forded the river below the present bridge and you will follow the same route to the beach.
Go on an informative and interactive guided walk that takes you on a journey of discovery through Stewart Island’s unique cultural and natural heritage.
A scenic walk through this historic reserve down to an architecturally interesting 19th century railway tunnel.
If you’re looking for something slightly more challenging but still only going to take you a short amount of time then a great place to explore would be Bluff Hill and the many surrounding walks, including Ocean Beach Track. These walks are excellent because when you reach the top you can be satisfied with the gorgeous views across to Stewart Island.
Following the coast, this fantastic walkway takes you to Lookout Point and further on to Ocean Beach, while also providing access to other tracks.
Walk through thick bush to the top the Bluff Hill (Motupohue) and back down the other side. A loop can be formed with part of the Foveaux Walkway.
This recreational area offers spectacular views over Southland and the southern coast, and numerous different walking and mountain biking tracks.
For the outdoors-loving travelers, some of Southlands campgrounds feature many short walks excellent for part of your daily activities whilst camping. Mavora Lakes campground offers two tracks which feature gorgeous views and exciting swing bridges. Piano Flat is another campground with walks for all levels of fitness and it is also dog-friendly.
This fantastic park encompasses 95 hectares of native forest, walking tracks, expansive lawns, gardens, an excellent playground, and a camp ground.
An excellent picnic spot, this lovely clearing at the edge of the Waikawa Forest has an easy access short walk and a longer walk to two waterfalls.
A scenic picnic area and basic campsite nestled in the foothills of the Eyre Mountains beside a river, with a wood barbeque and a toilet.
Next time you're in Southland make sure to check out one of the beautiful short walks - what may take a short slice out of your day could give you memories to last you a lifetime about the true beauty of Southland nature. If you're looking for other walks like Great Walks make sure to read the Great Walking page.
