Camping on Gertrude Saddle
Gertrude Saddle, Fiordland © Liz Carlson

Outdoor Adventures

Murihiku Southland is a paradise of outdoor activities. Whether you're into tramping, camping, hunting, fishing, cycling, or kayaking, we've got you covered. Explore mountains, lakes, and forests, creating memories to last a lifetime. Hike or cycle through trails that reveal the region's heritage, passing verdant farmland, rocky hills, sparkling lakes, and alpine vistas. The list of adventures is endless. What kind of adventure seeker are you?

Spot Hector's dolphins at Te Akau Tai Toka The Catlins, or go on a nocturnal trek in Rakiura Stewart Island, to see kiwis. Enjoy quad biking, horse trekking, snorkelling, and cruising. Take your four-wheel drive on an off-road escapade through Southland's stunning landscapes. Many operators offer itineraries packed with outdoor adventures. Take a helicopter ride to view Fiordland's awe-inspiring fiords from above. In rural Southland, learn country skills like whip cracking, clay target shooting, and communicating with animals. So much awaits you in Murihiku Southland!

Explore Southland's Landscapes

Invercargill Central
Stacy Williamson

Invercargill

Waihōpai Invercargill is the regional capital and commercial hub of Southland. Founded in the 1850s…

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…

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…

Fishing in Gore

Gore District

Maruawai Gore and its surrounding district, sometimes called Eastern Southland, boasts an eclectic…

Bluff Sign Stirling Point

Bluff

Southland’s port, Motupōhue Bluff, lies thirty kilometres south of Invercargill. The town…

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…

Athol Biking - Around the Mountains Cycle Trail
Around the Mountains Cycle Trail, Athol

Northern Southland

Northern Southland is a beautiful contrast of green, rolling farmland, majestic snow-capped…

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…

Things to Do

Wairaurahiri Jet
Wairaurahiri Jet © Martin Sliva

Activities & Tours

Things to Do

Activities & Tours

There is nothing like a personalised story or interactive experience to bring skills, history and landscapes to life. Enrich your southern adventure with one of our tours and experiences for a deeper dive… Read More

Walking on Swing Bridge, Mavora Lakes
Mavora Lakes, Northern Southland © Chris Mclennan

Walking & Cycling

Things to Do

Walking & Cycling

In Southland, there is an abundance of walking trails for the hiking-inclined traveller, be it short, day or multi-day walks. All these walks let you sample the region's rich natural heritage, exploring… Read More

Farm Animals - Southland, New Zealand
Air New Zealand

Agritourism

Things to Do

Agritourism

Known for its warm ‘small community’ feel, rural Southland is famous for genuine hospitality, hearty meals, entrepreneurial spirit, and stunning natural landscapes. With experiences ranging from… Read More

Things to Do