About the Southern Scenic Route

The Southern Scenic Route is indicated by this symbol on brown information signs at major intersections and on regular route markers. 

The Southern Scenic Route is sealed but roads to some attractions may not be. Some points of interest may be across private land and access is by courtesy of the landowner. On unsealed roads slow down and drive to the conditions. If you come across sheep and cattle being moved along roads, please drive slowly and show consideration.

 
Maori have occupied the south of the South Island for approximately 1000 years. Permanent settlements at Riverton and Colac Bay were linked to a network of mahika kai: seasonal coastal camps, that oral traditions say stretched around the South Coast. Moa-hunter midden sites are visible at Tahakopa Bay in the Catlins, and the Clifden caves have evidence of travelling Māori parties. As early as 1350 fishing was beginning to replace moa hunting and sealing for Māori.

In local dialect the ’ Ng’ as in Ngāi Tahu is often replaced with a ‘K’ as in Kai Tahu. Kai Tahu whanui are the indigenous people of the southern islands of New Zealand. Today, Kai Tahu people remain a strong tribe in the south, their influence being visible throughout the Southern Scenic Route.