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Southland

Southland, New Zealand

Escape to Southland: New Zealand's Undiscovered Paradise Tucked away at the bottom of the South Island, Southland, New Zealand, is a land where rugged beauty meets charming towns and adventure awaits around every corner.…

#Southland#New Zealand#Southernmost region#Farming community#Coastal area

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Southland.

Top Hotels in Southland

Top Flights to Southland

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Southland.

Tours

Explore Fiordland National Park

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Fiordland with its majestic fjords, waterfalls, and lush rainforests.

Southern Scenic Route

Drive along one of the world's most scenic routes, offering stunning views of coastline, wildlife, and rolling hills.

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Explore the underground wonderland of glowworm caves on a guided boat tour.

Queens Park

A beautiful public park in the heart of Invercargill, featuring gardens, an aviary, and a golf course.

Southland Museum and Art Gallery

Discover the history and culture of Southland through exhibitions and displays.

Bill Richardson Transport World

An impressive auto museum featuring vintage cars, trucks, and memorabilia.

Shopping

Demolition World

An offbeat attraction showcasing a unique collection of relics from demolished buildings.

Outdoor

Rakiura National Park

Experience the unspoiled natural beauty of Stewart Island's national park with its diverse flora and fauna.

Oreti Beach

Enjoy a day at the beach with opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and beachcombing.

Riverton Beaches

Visit the picturesque beaches of Riverton for a relaxing coastal experience.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Southland.

Currency

$ | NZD | New Zealand Dollar

Population

105,000

Languages

English, Māori

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Southland.

What people love

Southland, located in the southern part of New Zealand, offers a variety of unique experiences and attractions for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Southland include:

Stunning Natural Beauty: Southland is known for its stunning landscapes, including rugged coastlines, pristine beaches, lush forests, and snow-capped mountains. Visitors can explore the diverse natural beauty through activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.
Milford Sound: Southland is home to the iconic Milford Sound, one of New Zealand's most famous natural attractions. Visitors can cruise through the fjord, marveling at towering waterfalls, sheer cliffs, and abundant wildlife.
Fiordland National Park: Southland is also home to Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its dramatic fjords, deep forests, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can hike the famous Milford Track, go kayaking in Doubtful Sound, or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Rich Maori Culture: Southland has a rich Maori heritage, and visitors can learn about the local culture through traditional performances, art galleries, and museums. Maori cultural experiences are a great way to gain insight into New Zealand's indigenous history and traditions.
Outdoor Activities: Southland offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts, including fishing, skiing, mountain biking, and more. With its abundance of natural resources, the region is a paradise for outdoor lovers.
Local Cuisine: Southland is known for its delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood, lamb, and traditional Maori dishes. Visitors can sample regional specialties at local restaurants, cafes, and farmers' markets.

Overall, traveling to Southland, New Zealand, offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty, culture, and outdoor adventures of this stunning region.

What to know

Southland is located at the southernmost part of New Zealand and is known for its stunning natural beauty, rugged landscapes, and unique wildlife. While there are many positives to traveling to Southland, there are also some cons to be aware of. Here are some potential drawbacks:

Weather: Southland's weather can be quite unpredictable and changeable, with strong winds and frequent rain. This can impact outdoor activities and sightseeing plans.
Remote location: Southland is a relatively remote region, which means that amenities and services may be limited compared to larger cities. Traveling around the region can also take longer due to the vast distances between attractions.
Limited public transportation: Public transportation options in Southland may be limited, making it more challenging to get around without a personal vehicle. This can restrict your ability to explore the region independently.
Seasonal closures: Some attractions, accommodations, and activities in Southland may have seasonal closures, particularly during the winter months when weather conditions can be harsh. It's important to check ahead of time to avoid disappointment.
Insect pests: In some parts of Southland, particularly in rural areas, sandflies and mosquitoes can be a nuisance during the warmer months. Be prepared with insect repellent to avoid discomfort.

Overall, while Southland offers breathtaking scenery and unique experiences, travelers should be prepared for the challenges that come with a visit to this remote and rugged region of New Zealand.

Southland is a region located in the southernmost part of New Zealand's South Island. It is known for its rich natural landscapes, including beautiful coastlines, fertile farmlands, and the Fiordland National Park. Here’s a detailed overview of its history:

Early History and Indigenous Heritage

Māori Settlement: Southland was originally inhabited by the Māori, who have lived in the region for several centuries. The area was an important habitat for hunting and gathering, especially for its abundant birdlife and seafood.
Iwi of Southland: The primary Māori iwi (tribes) associated with Southland are Ngāi Tahu and Ngāti Mamoe. These groups have historical ties to the land and continue to play an important role in the cultural and social fabric of the region.

European Exploration and Settlement

Early European Contact: The first Europeans to explore Southland were sealers and whalers in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. The region’s coastal areas were particularly attractive for these industries.
Land Purchases: In the mid-19th century, the New Zealand Company and other entities began purchasing land from the Māori, leading to more structured European settlement.
Establishment of Invercargill: Invercargill, the main city of Southland, was officially laid out in the 1850s. It grew rapidly due to its fertile land and the development of agriculture.

Economic Development

Agriculture: The economy of Southland has traditionally been based on agriculture. Sheep farming became particularly important, with Southland being one of New Zealand's leading regions for wool and meat production.
Dairy Industry: More recently, the region has seen significant growth in the dairy industry, with many farms converting from sheep to dairy production.
Natural Resources: Southland is also known for its natural resources, including lignite coal and forestry. These industries have contributed to the region's economic base.

Significant Events

Gold Rush: In the 1860s, the Central Otago Gold Rush led to an influx of settlers and economic activity in the broader area, including Southland.
Southland's Autonomy: In the 1860s, Southland briefly operated as a separate province but was reabsorbed into Otago in 1870 due to financial difficulties.

Landmarks and Natural Attractions

Fiordland National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this park is famous for its stunning fjords, such as Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. It is a major tourist attraction.
Stewart Island: Located to the south of the mainland, Stewart Island is known for its natural beauty and is a haven for wildlife, including native birds like the kiwi.
Bluff: A town known for its oysters and as the southern terminus of State Highway 1. It is also the location of Stirling Point, where a famous signpost indicates distances to various global locations.

Cultural Contributions

Burt Munro: A notable figure from Southland is Burt Munro, a motorcycle racer who set world speed records in the 1960s. His story was popularized in the film "The World's Fastest Indian."

Southland continues to be an important region in New Zealand due to its agricultural production, natural beauty, and cultural heritage.