If you’re after wild coastlines, heritage towns, quirky detours, and world-class scenery without the crowds, Murihiku – Southland might be just what you need. This southern region of Te Waipounamu – the South Island offers a slower, deeper kind of journey. From snow-dusted mountains to windswept beaches, penguin colonies to remote hiking trails, every turn in the road adds something special to your story.
A Personal Note from Us
We’ve explored a few classic Southland spots and loved every moment. At the time, work called us back sooner than we liked, but we left with a promise — next time, we’ll take it slow and do it right. The walking trails are top of our list for when we return with more time and our camper in tow.
What Makes Murihiku–Southland Worth Exploring?
Murihiku–Southland is more than a region — it’s a feeling.
It’s raw, rugged, and rich in natural beauty, with quiet beaches, legendary seafood, rare wildlife, and small-town warmth that’s hard to describe until you’ve felt it for yourself. This is where the road ends, the rush fades, and nature leads the way.
Māori Place Names and Cultural Significance
Murihiku – the traditional name for Southland, often translated as “the tail of the fish,” comes from the story of Māui fishing up the North Island. Murihiku is the tail end of that great catch and holds deep significance for Ngāi Tahu, the mana whenua (people of the land).
Table of Contents
- A Personal Note from Us
- What Makes Murihiku – Southland Worth Exploring?
- Māori Place Names and Cultural Significance
- Top Destinations in Murihiku – Southland
- Top Things to Do in Murihiku – Southland
- Top Cafés and Restaurants in Southland
- Where to Stay in Murihiku – Southland
- Best Hikes in Murihiku – Southland
- How to Get to and Around Murihiku – Southland
- Best Places to View the Sunset and Sunrise in Murihiku-Southland
- 5 Fascinating Facts About Murihiku – Southland
Top Destinations in Murihiku–Southland
The Catlins: Waterfalls, wild beaches, and off-grid magic
Stretching between Balclutha and Invercargill, The Catlins is one of Aotearoa’s most underrated coastal regions. With rugged shorelines, native bush, cascading waterfalls, and windswept beaches, this remote corner of Southland feels wild and untouched. It’s the kind of place where you’ll often have the view to yourself – whether you’re standing at the iconic Nugget Point Lighthouse, marvelling at the tiered beauty of Purakaunui Falls, or strolling the fossilised forest at Curio Bay.
Nature lovers are in for a treat here. The Catlins is home to rare wildlife, including Hector’s dolphins, yellow-eyed penguins, and countless native birds. There are walking tracks through ancient podocarp forests, scenic picnic spots, and beaches that stretch on forever. With limited reception and no big towns, it’s also the perfect place to switch off, slow down, and take the journey one gravel road at a time.
Curious to explore more of The Catlins? It’s one of Southland’s most enchanting hidden regions, full of waterfalls, wildlife, and wild coastlines. Click here for more inspiration, tips, and places to visit in and around this area.
Gore: Country music, art, and unexpected gems.
Gore might seem like a quiet rural town, but it’s got a vibrant cultural streak. Art lovers will be impressed by the Eastern Southland Gallery, home to the John Money Collection and works by Ralph Hotere. Music fans can check out the Gold Guitars Festival, held annually and celebrating Gore’s status as Aotearoa’s Country Music Capital.
History buffs will enjoy the quirky and fascinating Hokonui Moonshine Museum, which dives into the region’s bootlegging past with a touch of humour. The town also has scenic walks along the Mataura River, known for world-class trout fishing, and a growing food scene with cosy cafés and hearty southern fare.
Curious to explore more of Gore? Steeped in rural culture, quirky museums, and riverside charm — Click Here for visitor reviews, events, and top things to do in this unexpected gem of Southland.
Invercargill: Steampunk meets southern charm.
Often overlooked, Invercargill is full of character and quirky southern pride. Start your visit at Queens Park, a sprawling 80-hectare garden oasis with walking trails, an aviary, and rose gardens – perfect for a peaceful afternoon. For something totally unexpected, head to Bill Richardson Transport World, one of the largest collections of vintage trucks, cars, and petrol pumps in the world – it’s a hit even with non-car lovers.
Don’t miss E Hayes & Sons, an old-school hardware store with a twist – it doubles as a free museum featuring Burt Munro’s legendary Indian motorcycle, made famous in The World’s Fastest Indian. The town also has a small but growing café scene, great cheese rolls, and plenty of old-world charm, making it well worth a stop on your Southland adventure.
Want to discover more of Invercargill’s hidden gems? From behind‑the‑scenes tours and heritage walks to hands‑on craft experiences, follow the link above for curated activities and local insights into this charming southern city. Viator and TripAdvisor both have amazing information
Motupōhue -Bluff: The southernmost town with a proud heritage (and oysters).
Rugged, windswept, and full of southern spirit, Motupōhue-Bluff is best known for its world-famous oysters and the iconic Stirling Point signpost, where State Highway 1 officially begins (or ends). But there’s more here than photo ops – Bluff has a deep connection to Māori and maritime history, and its strong community pride is felt everywhere.
Climb Bluff Hill / Motupōhue for sweeping views across Te Ara a Kiwa – Foveaux Strait – and on clear days, you can spot Rakiura – Stewart Island in the distance. The town is also the main departure point for ferries to the island. Come during oyster season (March to August) and taste the sea’s finest delicacy fresh from the source.
➞ Check out our Full Motupohue-Bluff Travel Guide
Rakiura – Stewart Island: A wildlife haven and peaceful retreat.
Just an hour’s ferry ride from Motupōhue-Bluff, Rakiura – Stewart Island feels like stepping into another world. With around 85% of the island protected as Rakiura National Park, it’s a paradise for hikers, bird lovers, and those craving solitude. The island’s slower pace and friendly locals make it perfect for unplugging and reconnecting with nature.
Stroll the tracks on Ulva Island, a predator-free sanctuary teeming with native birdlife, or try your luck spotting a wild kiwi – one of the few places in Aotearoa where they’re regularly seen in the wild. Whether you’re here for the walking trails, the starry skies or the simple peace and quiet, Rakiura offers a rare kind of magic.
➞Check out our Full Rakiura – Stewart Island Travel Guide
Te Anau & Manapōuri – Gateways to Fiordland’s Deep Serenity
Technically part of Southland, Te Anau is often treated as a destination in its own right — and for good reason. Nestled beside the vast Lake Te Anau, this scenic lakeside town is the main hub for exploring Fiordland National Park including Piopiotahi – Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. Visitors can cruise to the magical Te Anau Glowworm Caves, wander the lakeside trails, or set off on the Kepler Track, one of Aotearoa’s Great Walks. With its cosy stays, good food, and stunning mountain backdrop, Te Anau is a must-stop on any deep south adventure.
Did you know? The name Manapōuri is often translated as “Lake of the Sorrowing Heart”, referring to stories of mourning and loss. Its peaceful setting and haunting beauty make it one of Aotearoa’s most meaningful lake destinations.
Just 20 minutes down the road, Manapōuri offers a quieter, more low-key base. Sitting peacefully beside Lake Manapōuri, this tiny village is the departure point for Doubtful Sound cruises and a great spot for travellers wanting to avoid the crowds. With wide lake views, native bird calls, and a slower rhythm, Manapōuri is all about unplugging and letting nature lead the way.
Curious to discover more of Te Anau and Manapōuri? Nestled on the edge of Fiordland, these towns offer world-class walks, glowworm caves, and serene fiord departures — Check out visitor tips, local insights, and top-rated things to do in and around this scenic lakeside gateway on Viator and TripAdvisor, both packed with valuable information.
Piopiotahi – Milford Sound (Southland): Iconic fiord with towering beauty
Tucked deep within Fiordland National Park, Piopiotahi – Milford Sound is a breathtaking natural wonder. Towering granite cliffs, lush rainforest, and tumbling waterfalls make it one of the most photographed places in Aotearoa – and rightly so.
Reach it via the Milford Road, one of the country’s most scenic drives, and enjoy a boat cruise through the fiord’s dramatic landscape. Rain only adds to the magic, amplifying the waterfalls and creating an ethereal atmosphere. Keep an eye out for seals, dolphins, and rare seabirds along the way.
➞Check out our Full Piopiotahi-Milford Travel Guide
Edendale or Lumsden (Southland rural gems): Small town with farming roots & Campervan-friendly with rural charm
These small Southland towns offer a true taste of rural Aotearoa. Edendale is steeped in farming history, while Lumsden has become a favourite stop for campervanners exploring the deep south.
Lumsden offers free overnight parking, a public dump station, and a handful of local cafés, making it a convenient and welcoming base. Both towns are quiet, friendly, and full of southern hospitality – perfect for travellers looking to slow down and soak up small-town life.
Interested in learning more about Lumsden and Edendale? These charming rural hubs offer campervan-friendly stops, local cafés, and a slice of authentic farm-country life — Click Here for visitor tips, reviews, and things to do.
Now that you’ve got a feel for the towns and hidden gems across Murihiku – Southland, it’s time to dive into what to see, do, taste and experience along the way. Whether you’re into hikes, heritage, local food or just chasing sunsets from your campervan, the sections below will help you make the most of your journey through the deep south.
🎒 Top Things to Do in Murihiku–Southland
From coastal walks and heritage trails to quirky museums and wildlife encounters, Southland offers plenty of unexpected adventures for those willing to explore a little deeper. We’ve rounded up some of the most popular things to do below to help you make the most of your time in this unforgettable region.
- Spot Wild Kiwi on Rakiura – Stewart Island
- Join a guided night walk and listen for the soft rustle of kiwi feet in the undergrowth. Rakiura is one of the few places in Aotearoa where you might spot these shy, nocturnal birds in the wild – a truly unforgettable experience.
- Cruise Piopiotahi – Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound
- Whether you choose the towering cliffs and tumbling falls of Milford Sound or the tranquil, remote beauty of Doubtful Sound, a fiord cruise is a must. Expect epic scenery, misty peaks and regular visits from dolphins, seals and seabirds.
- Stand at Stirling Point in Bluff
- Take a photo beneath the iconic yellow signpost at Stirling Point, where State Highway 1 ends and journeys truly begin. Don’t miss the anchor chain sculpture, symbolising the Māori story connecting Te Waipounamu (the South Island) to Rakiura.
- Walk to Nugget Point Lighthouse in the Catlins
- An easy coastal trail with jaw-dropping views, this short walk leads to the iconic Nugget Point Lighthouse, perched above dramatic rock formations known as “The Nuggets.” It’s one of Aotearoa’s most photographed coastal landmarks especially at sunrise.
- Marvel at Purakaunui Falls
- Framed by lush native bush, the multi-tiered Purakaunui Falls are a true Catlins classic. The short, well-formed track makes it accessible for all, and the gentle roar of the falls is a serene reward just minutes from the car park.
- Explore Queens Park in Invercargill
- One of Aotearoa’s best urban green spaces, Queens Park offers 80 hectares of rose gardens, native bush walks, a bird aviary, and even a golf course. It’s a peaceful escape in the heart of Invercargill and perfect for a leisurely wander.
- Visit Bill Richardson Transport World
- Don’t be fooled by the name, this place is far more than just trucks. With a massive collection of vintage vehicles, themed rooms, kids’ zones and quirky memorabilia, it’s a surprise favourite even for non-car lovers.
- Step into History at the Hokonui Moonshine Museum
- Discover Gore’s bootlegging past at this small but fascinating museum. Learn how locals defied prohibition to keep the whisky flowing, and finish your visit with a tasting of Hokonui Moonshine, Southland’s own illicit spirit turned legal.
- Walk Among Fossilised Forests at Curio Bay
- At low tide, the rocky shoreline at Curio Bay reveals a remarkable sight — a 180-million-year-old petrified forest frozen in time. Walk among ancient tree stumps and logs turned to stone, and keep an eye out for rare Hector’s dolphins just offshore.
- Take a Dip at Riverton Beach
- Southland’s answer to a beach town, Riverton blends coastal charm with laid-back vibes. Whether you’re paddling in the shallows, surfing small breaks, or enjoying fish and chips with a sea view, it’s a perfect spot to slow down and breathe in the salt air.
- Hike Part of the Hump Ridge Track
- You don’t need to commit to all three days — a day walk from Tuatapere still delivers dramatic coastal views, swing bridges, and peaceful stretches of native forest. It’s a fantastic way to sample one of Aotearoa’s upcoming Great Walks.
- Sample Bluff Oysters in Season
- From March to August, Southland’s prized Bluff oysters are in season — fresh, plump, and packed with flavour. Head to a local pub, café or fish shop in Bluff, Invercargill, or Riverton to try them straight from the source.
We usually start with Viator and Get Your Guide when planning tours or activities — both are easy to use and have loads of trusted options. But we always check Tripadvisor too, as it’s packed with local gems and more traveller reviews.
🥘 Top Cafés and Restaurants in Murihiku–Southland
When it comes to finding great places to eat, we usually check out Tripadvisor first — it’s full of honest reviews, local favourites, and hidden gems. Whether you’re after something casual or a special meal out, it’s a great place to compare what’s nearby and see what other travellers recommend.
- Louie’s Café & Tapas Bar – Invercargill
- A long-time local favourite, Louie’s offers a relaxed dining experience with creative tapas, fresh local produce, and a carefully curated wine list. Whether you’re after small plates to share or a cosy dinner for two, it’s a perfect spot for an evening out with a Southland twist.
- The Batch Café – Invercargill
- Bright, welcoming, and always buzzing, The Batch is one of Invercargill’s top brunch spots. Think hearty breakfasts, excellent cabinet food, and locally roasted coffee, all served in a stylish, modern space. A must-stop to fuel up before a day of exploring.
- Anchor & Sail – Bluff
- Set near the waterfront, Anchor & Sail is known for some of the freshest seafood in the south especially during Bluff oyster season. Friendly service and a warm atmosphere make it a great place for a relaxed lunch after visiting Stirling Point or Bluff Hill.
- The Thomas Green – Gore
- This modern gastropub blends historic charm with a polished, upmarket vibe. Expect generous meals, tender Southland steaks, and excellent service in a beautifully restored heritage building. A perfect mix of casual dining and quality fare.
- Aegean Café – Riverton
- A hidden gem in the coastal town of Riverton, the Aegean Café serves Mediterranean-style meals with a Kiwi twist. With a focus on fresh seafood, seasonal produce, and beachside charm, it’s a relaxed and satisfying stop for lunch or dinner.
🏡 Where to Stay in Murihiku–Southland
When it comes to finding the right place to stay, we usually start with Booking.com it’s easy to use and covers everything from budget motels to boutique stays and self-contained options. We also like to check Tripadvisor for reviews and side-by-side comparisons and Hotellook is a handy tool for comparing prices across multiple platforms. Between them, you’ll get a clear picture of what’s available and what might suit your travel style best.
- The Batch Motel & Suites – Invercargill
- Modern, stylish, and super central, this boutique motel is just a few minutes’ walk from Queens Park, Invercargill’s cafes, and local attractions. Rooms are fresh and well-appointed with thoughtful touches like kitchenettes and blackout curtains. Great for families, couples or business travellers looking for both comfort and convenience in the heart of the city.
- Prospect Lodge – Te Anau
- Tucked away just outside town, Prospect Lodge offers boutique self-contained chalets with sweeping mountain views. The hosts are known for their warm hospitality and hearty breakfasts, and the location is peaceful yet close to all the Fiordland action. A top pick for couples wanting a cosy, restful stay with a touch of luxury.
- Mossburn Country Cottages – Mossburn
- Set in the quiet countryside between Te Anau and Queenstown, these charming self-contained cottages are perfect for those wanting a peaceful rural stay. Located near the Around-the-Mountains Cycle Trail, it’s a favourite for cyclists, nature lovers, and road trippers looking for space to unwind and reconnect with the land.
- Freedom Camp: Colac Bay / Ōraka Overnight Campervan Parking
- Right on the beachfront, this self-contained-only freedom camping spot is a Southland favourite. Known for its friendly vibe and local surf culture, Colac Bay is great for an evening swim, a surf, or a sunset stroll along the sand. Simple and scenic – just how campervanning should be.
- Freedom Camp: Monkey Island, Ōrepuki
- One of the South Island’s most unique freedom camping spots, Monkey Island sits off the coast and becomes accessible at low tide. This windswept beach is ideal for stargazing, long beach walks, and catching sunrise over the Tasman Sea. A magical, off-grid stop – and completely free for self-contained vans.
- DOC Campground: Purakaunui Bay Campsite – The Catlins
- Tucked into native bush along a wild stretch of coastline, Purakaunui Bay Campsite is a basic but beautiful DOC site. Facilities include toilets and picnic tables, and the dramatic cliffs and waves make this a peaceful, remote-feeling place to stay. A short drive from Purakaunui Falls and other Catlins highlights.
🥾 Best Hikes in Murihiku–Southland
Whether you’re after a gentle coastal stroll or a multi-day backcountry trek, Southland’s diverse landscapes offer something for every walker. From forested valleys to rugged cliffs and alpine lakes, these trails showcase the raw beauty of the deep south. Below are some of the region’s most loved hikes – perfect for stretching your legs and soaking up the scenery.
- Hump Ridge Track
- Distance 60 km.
- Time 3 days
- Starting and ending in Tuatapere, the Hump Ridge Track is a dramatic loop showcasing remote wilderness, ancient forest, and wild southern coastline. Highlights include towering suspension bridges, panoramic sea views, and the incredible Percy Burn Viaduct – one of the largest wooden viaducts in the world. Managed by the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Trust and recently selected as one of Aotearoa’s next Great Walks, this track blends natural beauty with engineering history.
- Kepler Track
- Distance 60 km
- Time 3–4 days
- Looping through Fiordland National Park near Te Anau, the Kepler Track offers an unforgettable alpine adventure. The trail climbs through lush beech forest, skirts limestone bluffs, and rewards hikers with expansive ridgeline views over Lake Te Anau and the surrounding mountains. With well-equipped huts and dramatic scenery, it’s a favourite for both first-time Great Walkers and seasoned trampers.
- Milford Track
- Distance 53 km
- Time 3–4 days
- Known as the ‘finest walk in the world’, the Milford Track is a bucket-list experience through the heart of Fiordland. Beginning at Lake Te Anau and finishing at Piopiotahi – Milford Sound, the trail weaves through mossy valleys, across alpine passes, and past the spectacular Sutherland Falls – one of the tallest waterfalls in the country. Limited spaces mean early booking is essential but the reward is well worth it.
- Lake Marian Track
- Distance 8 km return
- Time 3 hours
- This half-day hike is one of Fiordland’s hidden gems. Beginning near the Hollyford Road, the track climbs steadily through moss-covered forest and over swing bridges before arriving at Lake Marian, a serene alpine lake surrounded by steep peaks and waterfalls. It’s a moderate effort with a big payoff and makes a perfect side trip from the Milford Road.
- Purakaunui Falls Track
- Distance 1 km return
- Time 10 minutes
- A short, easy walk through native bush leads to one of the Catlins’ most iconic sights, the triple-tiered Purakaunui Falls. The gentle gradient and well-maintained path make it suitable for all fitness levels and the falls are especially photogenic after rain. A must-stop if you’re exploring the wild beauty of the southern coast.
Before you hit the trail, it’s always a good idea to check the DOC (Department of Conservation) website. You’ll find important updates on track conditions, weather alerts, and any closures or hazards. It’s also where you can book huts or campsites on popular multi-day hikes. Checking in first helps you stay safe, pack what you need, and enjoy your adventure with confidence — especially in Aotearoa’s wild and changeable backcountry.
🚘 How to Get to and Around Murihiku – Southland
- Fly to Invercargill
- Invercargill Airport sits 5 km from the city. You’ll find daily direct flights: about 2 hrs from Auckland (six days a week) and around 1h 25m from Christchurch
- Self‑drive or campervan
- The best way to explore is on your own wheels. Rent a car or motorhome at major airports and follow the iconic Southern Scenic Route through The Catlins, Bluff, Invercargill, Te Anau, and Milford Sound
- Bus & coach services
- InterCity runs daily buses to Invercargill and Te Anau from across NZ. Coach transfers are also available to connect you to the Stewart Island ferry
- Ferry to Stewart Island / Rakiura
- Regular catamaran ferries cross Foveaux Strait from Bluff to Oban (about an hour). Coach connections from Invercargill or Te Anau align with ferry times, and parking (free and paid) is available at Bluff terminal
- On‑island transport
- In Oban, you can walk, bike, or rent a car or scooter to explore Stewart Island. Flights from Invercargill to Stewart Island are also offered for a faster and more scenic arrival.
- Public transport tips
- Southland’s rural roads mean buses aren’t always convenient. For flexibility and scenic routes, self‑driving is recommended—but quality bus and coach connections exist for major towns .
🌅 Best places to view the Sunset and Sunrise in Murihiku-Southland
Sunrise Spots
- Oban (Halfmoon Bay), Stewart Island – Ideal early-morning beach moments
- Wake up on Oban’s shoreline as the first light shines across the water—a peaceful way to start the day at one of Aotearoa’s southernmost towns
- Lion Lookout, near Te Anau – Elevated views over lake and mountains
- A short drive from Te Anau takes you to this elevated viewpoint where sunrise paints the lake and Fiordland peaks in golden hues .
Sunset Spots
- Stirling Point, Bluff – The ultimate “end of the road” vista
- Stand by the iconic signpost and anchor chain sculpture as the sun sinks over Foveaux Strait and Rakiura in the distance
- Oreti Beach, Invercargill – Expansive dunes and open skies
- Drive south from Invercargill to Oreti’s sand dunes for wide-angle sunset scenes—ideal for a peaceful evening by the surf
🐧 5 Fascinating Facts About Murihiku – Southland
- Bluff Is Home to the World’s Southernmost Signpost
- Stirling Point marks the end of State Highway 1 and features a famous sign showing distances to major cities around the world.
- Southland Hosts Two of Aotearoa’s Great Walks
- Both the Kepler Track and the newly upgraded Hump Ridge Track are located in Southland, offering some of the country’s most stunning multi-day hikes.
- The Famous Bluff Oyster Comes From Here
- Known for its plump texture and salty richness, the Bluff oyster is a delicacy harvested between March and August—best eaten fresh from the source.
- You Can Spot Kiwi in the Wild on Rakiura – Stewart Island
- Unlike most parts of Aotearoa, Rakiura offers the rare chance to see wild kiwi during guided night walks or even along quiet tracks.
- Invercargill Has One of the Largest Vehicle Museums in the World
- Bill Richardson Transport World houses over 300 vintage vehicles and is a surprise favourite even for non-petrolheads.
🌍 Travel Planning Resources
These are the tools we personally use and trust when planning our travels — from finding a place to stay to booking activities, transport, and insurance. Let your Tohu guide you — Trust the Journey and follow what feels right for you.
- ✈️Flights – Compare great deals with Kiwi.com and Aviasales for flexible, affordable options.
- 🚐 Campervans – Compare rental deals with Motorhome Republic across Aotearoa and beyond
- 🛏️ Stays – Compare hotels on Booking.com, Hotellook or TripAdvisor
- 🚐 Rental Cars – Compare prices and book through Airport Rentals by Motorhome Republic for trusted brands and easy airport pickup.
- 🎟️ Activities – Browse tours and experiences on Viator, Get Your Guide, or TripAdvisor
- 🛡️ Travel Insurance – Get flexible short-term coverage with Insubuy for your next holiday
- 📱 Travel eSIM – Stay connected with Airalo
- 💼 Lounge Access – Treat yourself with Priority Pass – for UK or US
🧭 Some booking links can be shy around VPNs! If one doesn’t open, try turning off your VPN or switching to a secure Wi-Fi network.
He matua pou whare, e rokohanga ana; he matua tangata, e kore e rokohanga
You can always gain shelter in your house, but not always with other people