Best Things to Do in Bluff

Best Things to Do in Bluff takes you to the southern edge of Aotearoa – New Zealand, where rugged coastlines, legendary seafood, and a proud seafaring history wait to be explored. Known as the gateway to Rakiura – Stewart Island, Bluff is more than just oysters — it’s a place where visitors can wander heritage sites, soak up sweeping views, and step into authentic local culture. This guide to the Best Things to Do in Bluff highlights experiences that reveal the true character of the town, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Whether you come for the festival, the museum, or the coastline, you’ll find that the Best Things to Do in Bluff connect you deeply to its people and its past.

Attend the Bluff Oyster Festival

The Bluff Oyster Festival is the town’s most anticipated event, held every May when the oyster season is in full swing. It’s a one-day celebration that draws thousands of visitors to the deep south, all eager to sample the world-famous Bluff oyster fresh from Foveaux Strait. Beyond the seafood, it’s a community event full of live music, cooking shows and a buzzing festival atmosphere that makes it one of the most unique food celebrations in Aotearoa – New Zealand.

Festival Highlights:

• When: May each year (one-day event, 10am – late afternoon)
• What: Fresh Bluff oysters, seafood dishes, local wine and craft beer
• Entertainment: Live bands, cooking demonstrations and competitions
• Atmosphere: A lively mix of locals and travellers celebrating together
• Tickets: Limited and sell out quickly — booking in advance is a must

Visit Stirling Point

At the very end of State Highway 1, Stirling Point is one of Bluff’s most photographed spots. The famous signpost points to cities across the globe, reminding travellers that they’ve reached the southern edge of Aotearoa – New Zealand. It’s a place that combines history, scenery and symbolism, making it a must-do stop in Bluff.

Features:

• Location: Southern end of SH1, Bluff
• Iconic Signpost: Distances to major world cities
• Scenery: Overlooks Foveaux Strait and Rakiura – Stewart Island
• Nearby: Short walks, including coastal tracks from the point
• Wildlife: Good chance to spot seabirds and occasional dolphins offshore

Bluff Hill Lookout

For panoramic views of Southland and beyond, the Bluff Hill Lookout delivers. A winding road takes you up to this high vantage point, where you can gaze across Foveaux Strait, Rakiura – Stewart Island and even as far as Fiordland on a clear day. It’s one of the best places to truly appreciate Bluff’s rugged landscape.

Features:

• Access: Drive up Bluff Hill Road with parking at the top
• Views: Expansive outlooks over sea, islands and countryside
• Highlights: Sightlines to Tiwai Point, Dog Island, and Stewart Island
• Walks: Short trails around the lookout for extra viewpoints
• Best Time: Sunset or clear days for maximum visibility

Bluff Maritime Museum

This small but fascinating museum brings to life Bluff’s maritime history from whaling and shipwrecks to modern fishing stories. With interactive displays and a full-sized oystering boat, it offers a hands-on look at how the ocean has shaped the town’s identity.

Features:

• Exhibits: Shipwreck relics, whaling history and oyster industry stories
• Star Attraction: Full-size oystering boat to climb aboard
• Displays: Multimedia presentations and interactive exhibits
• Location: Gore Street, central Bluff
• Family Friendly: Engaging displays for kids and adults alike

Greenpoint Walkway

The Greenpoint Walkway is a short coastal track just outside Bluff, known for its ship graveyard and peaceful sea views. It’s an easy stroll that mixes history, nature and scenery, making it perfect for a relaxed outing.

Features:

• Start Point: Greenpoint Domain, a short drive from Bluff
• Ship Graveyard: Rusting remains of vessels beached along the coast
• Views: Over Bluff Harbour and Foveaux Strait
• Duration: Around 30–40 minutes one way
• Nature: Seabirds and native bush along the path

Final Thought

Bluff may be a small town, but it’s packed with character and stories. It’s the gateway to Rakiura – Stewart Island and a handy base for exploring other Southland towns, while still offering plenty to enjoy in its own right. From oysters to history and sweeping coastal views, Bluff delivers experiences that stay with you long after you’ve left.

Plan Your Adventure

Ready to explore the Best Things to Do in Bluff? Book your stay. Check out local tours and make this southern gem part of your journey through Aotearoa – New Zealand.

🌍 Travel Planning Resources

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