Explore the Plains, Rivers & Pioneering Spirit of Northern Southland

Northern Southland Heritage Trail

Spanning 110km between Kingston and Josephville Hill, the Northern Southland Heritage Trail connects 15 sites that tell the story of a region shaped by rivers, mountains, and generations of settlers. This self-guided trail is perfect for a scenic drive through wide plains and historic townships, revealing the legacy of Māori travellers, pioneering farmers, and railway builders.

A Trail of Transformation

Before European settlement, Māori passed through this region on pounamu expeditions into Fiordland and hunted along the rivers and plains. In the mid-1850s, Pākehā pioneers arrived, clearing bush to create farmland and building homesteads—many of which still stand today.

The arrival of the railway in 1878 marked a turning point, bringing prosperity and opening up the land for further settlement. Today, the trail offers a window into this transformation, with stops at historic churches, bridges, stations, and rural landmarks.

Highlights include:

• Kingston Railway Station – marking the southern end of the Kingston Flyer
• Lumsden Railway Precinct – once a bustling junction, now a heritage hub
• Five Rivers – home to art, history, and sweeping views
• Historic homesteads and churches – scattered across the plains

Trail Map & Info

You can start the trail from any point along the route and download the brochure for maps, site details, and travel tips.