The Catlins Region of New Zealand

Following intermittent Maori occupation in this remote area, early European settlement in the Catlins was all about whaling and sealing, sawmilling and the search for gold. Farming took tenuous root in the often inhospitable conditions of the rugged countryside, which lies firmly in the top half of the Roaring Forties. Today it is tourism, mostly eco-branded, that has become the leading industry for the region’s hardy inhabitants.

A Recent Addition to the Tourist Trail

The Catlins has in recent times gained a well-earned reputation as a quality destination through the establishment of a range of accommodation options, sightseeing tours and well-presented bush and coastal walks maintained by the Department of Conservation. Word has spread, and today travellers from all around the world are drawn to the rugged scenery, the wildlife, the complete natural environment that is this largely unspoiled southern land.

Scenic New Zealand Attractions

Travelling south from Dunedin and turning left at Balclutha, the visitor shortly thereafter enters the Catlins. At the region’s northern end, Nugget Point provides a spectacular Southern Ocean vista, and nearby Roaring Bay may just, with some patience, reveal a glimpse of the endangered Yellow-Eyed penguin (hoihoi).

Onward through Owaka, the region’s only town of note, or coastward to Surat Bay; travellers are advised to watch out for the sea lions lazing among the sand dunes. Jacks Bay gives walking access to Jack’s Blowhole, a unique natural feature of the coast. It is well worth the trek across the open pasture, where efforts made to tame the elements and work the land will be well appreciated.

About midpoint through The Catlins, and after a short detour to Purakaunui Falls, the tour arrives at the small settlement of Papatowai, a good option for overnighting. In the surrounding area there are some easy bush and estuary walks, plenty of native bird life, and photo-ops galore. Just south of Papatowai, Florence Hill provides a panoramic view of Tautuku Bay as it sweeps into the distance. Tranquil Lake Wilkie is an interesting contrast to the rugged scenes by now anticipated along the way. Nearby are Cathedral Caves, just off the beaten track but another must-see, for both the journey and the natural splendour experienced on arrival.

Towards the southern limits of The Catlins, Curio Bay is a good place to linger a while. There, remnants of a fossilised forest dating back 160 million years are on display at water’s edge. Just beyond Curio Bay is isolated Slope Point, the South Island’s southernmost point, where the sea air is to say the least invigorating on a blustery day. From there it’s an easy drive to Invercargill, and all the amenities of a modern city.

These are just some of the major scenic spots with which The Catlins is endowed. Add an interesting history to discover, friendly people to meet, and much more to do than may at first meet the eye, and this south-eastern detour from state highway normality will reward the effort many times over. The Catlins’ understated place on the tourist map offers visitors a stark and refreshing contrast to the commercialism of better-known destinations.

An ideal place for those on a free, independent expedition wishing to get right up close to natural New Zealand. Truly somewhere to get away from it all for a couple of days, or for longer.