Southern Scenic Route

Welcome to the official website for the Southern Scenic Route - New Zealand's first touring route.

Click here to view the click on map of the Southern Scenic Route.

Porpoise Bay, Catlins Take the coastal journey along the Southern Scenic Route and unlock secrets found only in the south of the South Island, New Zealand.

Explore New Zealand native bush rolling to the water's edge or stroll down a white sandy beach and enjoy peace and solitude. Meander through the colourful coastal fishing villages and seaside settlements. Venture down side roads and find places to view wildlife. Stay overnight along the way, meet local people and find out what we mean by 'southern hospitality'.

Percy Burn Viaduct, Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track

Travel via Tuatapere and experience the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track. View the wild southern coast capturing the imagination with breathtaking views of the ocean. Spend time in Riverton, a delightful historic fishing town and holiday spot. Fossic for shells and stones on the beach, take a leisurely swim or have a meal in one of the trendy cafes.

The city of Invercargill offers a display of fine Victorian architecture and the wonderful Southland Museum and Art Gallery has a live Tuatara display. Behind the Museum is the vast Queens Park with rose gardens, avenues of native and exotic trees, and an aviary featuring a variety of native birdlife. A stay in Invercargill enables visitors to meet the locals and experience warm hospitality.

From Invercargill travel through the Catlins, an area where native forest meets the estuaries and the great South Pacific Ocean bites into the land. The Catlins is home to an abundance of wildlife. Curio Bay's 160 million year old fossilised forest is of international geological significance.

Lake Waihola marks the turning point of travel toward the coast and the charming seaside villages of Taieri Mouth and Brighton. Take time to enjoy the many recreational activities in this area.

Depending on your direction of travel, Dunedin marks the beginning or the conclusion of your tour of the Southern Scenic Route. Dunedin is a bustling university city, celebrated for it's architecture, museums, galleries and theatres, and the wildlife thriving on nearby Otago Peninsula.

The Southern Scenic Route now has completely sealed roads. Be aware that a few attractions require a detour off the main route onto gravel roads. Please check with your rental car company that you are insured on unsealed roads.