Find Your Ideal Itinerary

Queenstown

• Choose from one of Queenstown's award-winning fine dining establishments to cheerful cafes and ethnic restaurants.
• Grab takeaways downtown and head to a spot on the lake front.
• Discover the stunning wine that Central Otago is renowned for. Self-drive or take a guided tour to learn more.
• Dine above the gondola for magical views of the Wakatipu Basin. 
• Head to nearby quaint town of Arrowtown, also home to some of New Zealand’s most awarded restaurants. In summer, dine al fresco on the streets and balconies to enjoy a meal or a drink and catch the last rays of the day.  In winter, roaring log fires are a feature and provide a cosy alpine ambience for many restaurants.

 Fiordland

• If a casual eating experience is more your thing, try one of the cafes around the region. Discover the quaint cafes spotted around the route that offer gift shops as well. Shopping and food – what more could a girl ask for!
• For an outdoor dining experience, order some fish and chips and head to the lakeshore of Lake Te Anau.
• For fine dining experience local delicacies such as New Zealand crayfish (or lobster), locally farmed venison, along with some fine New Zealand wines.

Invercargill and Bluff

• Head to Bluff to sample the world famous Bluff Oyster. While you’re there get your photo taken at Stirling Point.
• Ask a local restaurant to try local venison and fresh blue cod.
• On Sunday head to the Southland Farmers Market, where regional growers and primary producers sell their produce directly to the local community and visitors to the region.
• Sample Invercargill’s very own beer from the local microbrewery.

The Catlins

• Continue your local cuisine discoveries, trying paua patties and succulent lamb and beef that New Zealand is famous for.
• Take a packed picnic lunch and head to one of the picnic spots along the Southern Scenic Route.

Balclutha

• Stop off at one of the cafes and try a true southern classic – the delicious cheese roll.
• Head to one of the local rivers in the area and try your luck at trout and salmon fishing. Nothing better than eating a meal caught with your very own hands!
• Head to a local pub for some true entertainment and southern comfort food.

Dunedin

• Spend the day exploring Dunedin’s cafes, first at trendy inner city cafe then to a student favourite and ending at a relaxing beach side cafe.
• In honour of Dunedin’s Scottish heritage try some haggis with a spot of dram.

Queenstown

• For a snow lovers dream, take your pick from one of the amazing ski areas around Queenstown. Head to the freestyle park, jump on a snow mobile or head to the skies and go heli-skiing.
• For a huge rush of adrenaline, jump into the air for a free fall experience like no other! There are many different types to choose from, depending on what you’re up for!
• Take to the water on an exciting jet boat ride skimming across the lake and down beautiful rivers. Soak in the stunning vista and hold on as you get spun around 360 degrees!
• Head to the sky for a once in a lifetime experience. Jump out of a plane for a free fall experience like no other while you get a panoramic view of the amazing landscape below.
• For more adrenaline activities in the adventure capital of the world, check Queenstown website.

Fiordland

• Head out for a guided horse trek and travel across farmland while taking in the magnificent lake and mountain vistas.
• Jet boat on the Waiau River or on the steepest navigable river, the Wairaurahiri, through dense rainforest.
• Choose from a sea kayaking day or overnight trip to see Milford and Doubtful Sound. An amazing way to experience the fiords at nature’s level. 
• Enjoy breathtaking views of Fiordland National Park on a scenic flight trip. Choose from a helicopter, fixed wing plane or a float plant for spectacular views of the magical region.

Western Southland

• Jump on a jet boat and ride across Lake Hauroko, down onto the Wairaurahiri River for an exciting ride like no other!
• Take a torch and explore the fascinating Clifden Caves.These limestone caves are one of few cave systems in Southland. Caving experience is essential
• Head to local favourite spots or find your own break to experience some of the best surf New Zealand has to offer.

Invercargill and Bluff

• Beat the time clock as you race on New Zealand’s only indoor Velodrome.
• Head to Oreti Beach and go kite surfing for a thrill of a lifetime.
• Horse trek alongside Oreti River and through bush and forest till you reach the seemingly endless miles of Oreti beach.
• From Invercargill airport, take to the skies in a helicopter or plane for beautiful views of Stewart Island National Park and The Catlins area.
• Grab a mountain bike and explore one of Invercargill and Bluff’s many mountain bike tracks.

The Catlins

• Whether you’re a learner or an extreme surfer, The Catlins has a surfing spot for you. Make sure you check the weather forecasts and bring a long wetsuit!
• Enjoy a guided horse trek with spectacular views as you ride across some of the most natural and stunning scenery in New Zealand.
• Hire kayaks or join a tour for an unforgettable experience in nature’s paradise. Take a guided night kayak through rainforests or explore the waters by yourself.

 Balclutha

• If you’re a water lover, head to Lake Waihola with your boat and go waterskiing, windsurfing or just cruise in your boat.
• For trips on the Clutha River, take a jet boat ride.
• Take your pick of top surfing spots on the Southern Ocean. Spots include Kaka Point and Toko Mouth.

Dunedin

• No trip to Dunedin is complete without a visit to Baldwin Street, the steepest street in the world. Challenge yourself walking up the top to be rewarded with views out to Otago Harbour.
• Head to Long Beach, well known as Dunedin’s best rock climbing area. Experience essential!
• Look out for the caves at Long Beach and explore the different sized caverns.

 Queenstown

• Take the drive along Lake Wakatipu to Glenorchy. Set amongst snow-capped mountains, pristine lakes and national parks this is nature at its best.
• Walk through the Remarkables Conservation Area.

Fiordland

• Drive into Milford Sound and watch out for the Kea. Rated as one of the most intelligent birds in the world the kea has become inquisitive and nomadic social birds - characteristics which help them find and utilise new food sources.
• Visit the southern hemisphere’s only geographically active glowworm caves.
• Head into Doubtful or Milford Sound to explore the wondrous sights and sounds of such a magical place.
• Experience nature first hand by go hiking on a multi day walk on one of the Department of Conservation walks. Take a guided walk or head off independently to discover the lush native forest and birdlife.

 Western Southland

• Stop off at Te Wae Wae Bayin Western Southland. Here Hector’s dolphinsor Papakanua can be spotted.
• If time permits, challenge yourself on the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track.

Invercargill and Bluff

• Visit the Southland Museum & Art Gallery where the Tuatara has been successfully bred. Keep an eye out for grumpy Henry who at 110 years old became a first time Dad!
• Ferry or fly across the Foveaux Strait to the nature’s paradise of Stewart Island. At night go kiwi spotting for the New Zealand’s icon the Kiwi.
• If time allows, pack your hiking boots and stay in the wild to spot the Kiwi as they forage for food.
• While on the island head to Ulva Island, an open sanctuary where rare and endangered native birds and plants are now thriving.

The Catlins

• At dusk at Curio Bay view the Yellow Eyed Penguins returning from the ocean to make their way back to their nests. One of 17 species in the world, the Yellow Eyed Penguins are believed to be the rarest of all.
• If you are lucky, you may also see Hector’s dolphins in the nearby Porpoise Bay. 
• Stay overnight in the Catlins so you can rise at dawn to watch the Yellow Eyed Penguins as they leave their nests to feed in the ocean.

 Queenstown

• Watch jewellers at work or wonder amongst local art galleries and craft shops
• Discover film locations for the Lord of the Rings and other Hollywood block busters.
• In the evening check out the local bars to see talented musicians of all genres.
• On Saturday morning at the Steamer Wharf check out the local craft market.

Fiordland

• Discover the Te Wähipounamu the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area. Globally recognised as having world significance, the area incorporates 2.6 million hectares of pristine wilderness.
• At night time head to the movies for a boutique cinema experience. Enjoy the wonders of Ata Whenua and a variety of art house and main stream movies.
• Experience Fiordland's stunning starry nights, clean fresh air, and lack of light pollution means you see stars vibrant and bright on any clear evening.

Western Southland

•  Visit Riverton, one of the earliest European settlements in New Zealand
• Be sure to go to Te Hikoi Culture Centre in Riverton. Aboard the sailing ship theatre and reliv moments from the rich bicultural past of the area. Take an interactive journey through the displays. 
• Visit the vintage farm machinery museum in Thornbury.
• Check out a local flax mill museum for insight into the once prosperous industry.

Invercargill and Bluff

• Discover Invercargill’s best keep secrets at one the city’s art galleries. These include the AndersonPark Art Gallery, set on a handsome Georgian-style residence and home to a brilliant collection of mainly New Zealand paintings, pottery and sculpture.Discover the extensive and eclectic exhibitions in the Southland Museum & Art Gallery Niho O Te Taniwha,
• While at the Museum be sure to check out the successful Tuatara Breeding Programme, home to over 80 tuataras.
• In the afternoon head down to the Bluff Maritime Museum. Delve into the rich maritime history of Bluff with displays on oystering, whaling, & shipwrecks. 

The Catlins

• Head to Waipapa Point home to one of New Zealand's worst shipping disasters, the Taraua in 1881. 131 of the 151 passengers died in the disaster.
• Waikawa Museum displays exhibits on the early settlers and their industries of this once bustling port town.
• Check out the Owaka Museum, a place that captures the essence of the Catlins with a visual story-filled experience through the distinctive state-of-the-art.

Balclutha

• Be sure to visit South Otago Museum for a fascinating look at the area’s past.
• Head to 19^th century Sod Cottage, north of Balclutha for an insight into gold mining history of the area.
• At Milburn Limeworks check out the rare fossils.

Dunedin  

• Start your morning off in the Octagon in the inner city. Home to the fabulous First Church and an impressive Robbie Burns statue amongst other buildings with fine architecture.
• While in The Octagon head to the Dunedin Public Art Gallery, home to both local and international treasures.
• Head to the Otago University, where students walk amongst landscaped gardens and historic buildings.
• Walk from the city centre to the Dunedin Railway Station. A stunning piece of architecture which features Royal Dalton tiles. Built between 1904-1907 it is in the Flemish Renaissance style.
• The Chinese Garden offers a fascinating tribute to the Chinese settlers to Otago. The gardens are constructed in a traditional fashion, using almost entirely authentic materials imported from China and no nail.

Queenstown

• The Wakatipu region offers perfect feeding conditions for rainbow trout, brown trout and quinnat salmon. Take a guided fishing trip or head out on your own.
• Drive around Lake Wakatipu to the township of Kingston. Here you’ll find numerous fishing spots where you can enjoy a fantastic view of the lake.

Fiordland

• Lake Te Anau and Manapouri are the ideal lakes to catch brown trout. Purchase a day or season license and head to the shores.
• Go troll fishing in the lakes with a guide.
• Head to Doubtful Sound for sea fishing.
• Head to Ivan Wilson Park, on the road to Manapouri, for some quiet peaceful fishing in Lake Henry. This is specially stocked for children and offers a great family picnic spot.

Western Southland

• Head to Lake Hauroko and Lake Monowai with a guided fisherman to find the local secret  spots.
• Go fly fishing on your own and enjoy the tranquil setting.
• Stop off at Cosy Nook, a rocky cove that shelters several fishing boats and cribs (holiday homes).
• Head to Paihia Point, on the rugged Western Southand coastline for a spot of sea fishing. Park your car at the peninsula and be fishing within minutes.
• Before Riverton head around the ‘Rocks Highway’ to a privately-owned recreation reserve.
• Southland is not just about freshwater fishing, as the coastline and sea fishing offer their own challenges and thrills.
• Head to the Southland and Otago waters with an experienced fishing guide. Well known for fresh water and sea fishing, the regions offer the perfect opportunity to catch world class salmon and trout.

Invercargill and Bluff

• Travel down SH 1 to the port town of Bluff. Join local children as they dangle a line over the wharf.
• Ferry or fly over to Stewart Island and head out on a fishing boat for the day on Foveaux Strait.
• In the early morning head to Oreti River for some fishing on the still water.
• In white baiting season join the locals in the estuaries and rivers and try a delicious white bait fritter.

The Catlins

• A popular spot for holiday makers, Pounawea is situated on an eastuary known for its great fishing.
• In white baiting season join the locals in the estuaries and rivers and try a delicious white bait fritter.

 Balclutha

• Head to Lake Waihola a popular spot with locals and holiday makers for.
• Take a guided fishing tour on one of the local rivers to discover some of the locals’ best kept secret spots.
• Try surf casting at various beaches down the coast, including Bull Creek and Toko Mouth.
• Try your luck at white baiting at river mouths such as Kaitangata.

Dunedin

• Join a guided trip or charter a boat at Otago Peninsula for some deep sea fishing.
• Try your luck at salmon fishing on the Otago Harbour.

Queenstown

• For 360 degree panoramic views of the Queenstown basin head to the Queenstown Hill Time Walk (2 hr return). 
• After a reenergising break, stroll along Frankton Arm Walkway, the popular lakeshore track. (1 - 1.5 hr).
• In early evening stroll through the Queenstown Gardens. Enjoy the  that starts at the lakefront and follows the peninsula around to Frankton Arm with sweeping views up the lake to Glenorchy and down to Kingston (30 minute loop).

 Fiordland 

• Start bright and early from the Visitor Centre and head along the lakeshore to the Control Gates. Check out gates that control water flow for the West Arm hydroelectric power station. (50 min, Less than $20)
• From the Control Gates head to Dock Bay along a well defined lakeshore track through attractive stands of native forest.  This is the beginning of the Kepler Track and Dock Bay offers views of Te Anau and swimming and picnic facilities. (1 hr return).
• Or for a longer option from the Control Gates continue on to Brod Bay, another popular spot. For those with tired legs, a water taxi is available to return to Te Anau on a prearranged basis. (3 hr return).
• If you’re travelling into Milford Sound/Piopiotahi may sure you explore the many short walks and scenic-stopping points along the Milford Road itself – a spectacular alpine journey through a World Heritage National Park.

Western Southland

• From Borland Lodge head along the Borland Nature Walk through stunning beech forest. This is one of the best places in Southland to see native mistletoe which flowers in early summer (Duration: 40 min return).
• Lake Hauroko Bush Walk is set on the outskirts of New Zealand’s deepest lake. Discover a variety of native trees including matai, tōtara and rimu. Further inland you’ll find mountain beech/tawhai rauriki (Duration: easy 40 min return loop).
• On the Peninsula Lookout walk through mature beech forest to overlook the lower reaches of Lake Monowai (Duration: 30 min return).
• If you have more time to explore, don’t miss the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track. A walk that leads hikers through native forest, to panoramic alpine views and finishing on a beach track with stunning coastal views  (Duration: 3 day/2 night hike).

The Catlins

• A short walk to the Nugget Point Lighthouse will bring you to a lookout with stunning sea views and a chance to see wildlife on the rocks below (20 minute return walk on a path).
• Take a walk through the forest to discover majestic McLeans Falls at the end of the path (40 minute return walk).
• From the Fleming River Bridge on the Southern Scenic Route, the Estuary Boardwalk leads you on quiet walk where fernbirds and other small estuary inhabitants may be spotted (20 minute duration).
• The Cathedral Caves walk guides you through dense bush onto a peaceful beach. From Waipati beach discover the magnificent Cathedral Caves. Access is weather and tide dependant so please check before visiting (40 minute return walk).
• Get your photo taken at the southern most point of the South Island, Slope Point. Accessible through private property and closed during lambing season (1 Sep – 1 Nov), be sure to follow signs at the parking area (30 minute return).

 Balclutha

• For a short refreshing walk start on Picnic Gully Track walk across DOC reserve onto private land (Duration: 45 min return).
• If you’re feeling energetic, follow the Taieri River on a 16km return hike. Saline and freshwater vegetation gives way to open shrubland and lush podocarp forest (Duration: 4 hr return). 
• Turn off State Highway One and discover the Sinclair Wetlands / Te Nohoaka A Tukiauau. An internationally significant wetland reserve, it is home to many fascinating species of bird life. 

 Dunedin

• South of Dunedin lies Tunnel Beach, a romantic and secluded beach.  A stepped narrow tunnel leads white sandstone cliffs and wind, sea and rain-sculpted stacks. (Duration: 1 hr return, not open in spring).
• To see wildlife in their natural habitat head to Sandfly Bay and look out for yellow-eyed penguins and sleeping sea lions.  (Duration: 1 hr return).
• At Sandymount a circuit track offers spectacular views of Otago Peninsula’s coastline and cliff tops. (Duration: 1 hr return)

For full details of these suggested walks, please visit the 'Destinations' pages.