Bluff Must Do's

WORLD-FAMOUS BLUFF OYSTERS

Many say there is no better oyster than a Bluff oyster. When in season (between March and August), shuck a few down your throat and make your own mind up.

STEWART ISLAND FERRY

Bluff is your gateway to New Zealand’s third largest island. The Foveaux Strait is famed for its rough sea so catching the one-hour ferry requires a hard stomach. Take some gold coins for the cash bar.

MILLENNIUM TRACK

Climb to the summit of Bluff Hill via this steep, one-hour (one way) track. Superb views encompass Foveaux Strait and Stewart Island with informative panels at the top.

TOPUNI TRACK

Another way to reach the Bluff Hill summit is via this short but steep 50-minute track (one way) past a WWII gun emplacement through forest and shrub.

TOP TIP: For the perfect selfie opportunity, visit the AA Directions signpost at Stirling Point, at the very end of SH 1.

Bluff Signpost © Southland Tourism

SERIOUSLY GOOD CHOCOLATE COMPANY

The southern-most chocolate company in the world, tour the factory and discover an inventive array of sweet treats such as beer infused chocolate and ‘chocolate bombs’.

LUMSDEN

An hour from Invercargill and known for its railway history, the Around the Mountains cycle trail passes through here. Heritage buildings line the main street and you take a dip in the river or walk its grassy banks.

WINTON

Thirty minutes north of Invercargill, Winton oozes rural charm. The heritage buildings are both quaint and striking, the streets are sleepy, and the community spirit is felt everywhere.

Winton RSA © Southland Tourism

SWITZERS WAIKAIA MUSEUM

A major drawcard for the tiny town of Waikaia, this museum has historic exhibitions about gold, Chinese miners and the town’s military history. Thirty minutes from Lumsden.

Looking for a place to stay? Book accommodation at aa.travel.co.nz