So u thland
written by Emma Hunter
Southland, you beauty ANCHORING THE SOUTHERN ALPS
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nternational travel may be off the cards but ‘overseas’ adventures can still be had in Southland. So, embrace the chance to experience the wonders in your own country and head south.
It is a region of contrasts and boasts world-class scenery from mountain peaks, the deepest of lakes, meandering rivers, fertile farmlands, lush primordial forests and captivating coastlines.
There are few places that have such varied landscapes nestled together like Southland, right on the edge of New Zealand, anchoring the Southern Alps.
Southern hospitality is alive in Southland. It is known for its warm welcome and genuine people, but there is much more than meets the eye.
TOP FIVE TO-DOS
1. WILD KIWI SPOTTING ON STEWART ISLAND Kiwi spotting and bird watching on Stewart Island is a unique experience found nowhere else in the world. On Stewart Island, humans are outnumbered 50 to one by kiwi. This southern sanctuary offers a unique kiwi-spotting experience, as the birds are practically on your doorstep. 2. EXPLORE THE SOUTHERN SCENIC ROUTE The Southern Scenic Route is a road trip like no other. This incredible journey has been ranked one of the top 10 drives of the world, and for good reason. It is just over 600 kilometres of spectacular natural and cultural attractions and exciting activities, such as wildlife viewing, short walks, mountain biking, surfing, fishing, boating and tramping. 3. BLUFF SIGNPOST Take in the 360-degree views of lower Southland at Bluff Hill lookout, get your photo taken at the iconic Stirling Point signpost and walk the Foveaux Walkway along the coastal side of Bluff Hill/Motupohue while gazing out over Foveaux Strait. 4. CHECK OUT BILL RICHARDSON TRANSPORT WORLD, INVERCARGILL Whether they raced it, built it or collected it, you’ll find it on display at Bill Richardson Transport World and Classic Motorcycle Mecca. But don’t be fooled, there are more art galleries than garages with a wide palette of colour schemes, engineering marvels and local stories. Check out Invercargill’s motorcycle legend of speed, Burt Munro, at E. Hayes and Sons Motorworks. Have a go at Dig This Invercargill, New Zealand’s only heavy equipment playground. 5. WALK THE TUATAPERE HUMPRIDGE TRACK, WESTERN SOUTHLAND Set to be New Zealand’s next Great Walk, the Humpridge Track is a diverse and stunning three-day loop track from sub-alpine wilderness to sea-level views and over historic viaducts in the heart of native forest.
Image credit: Ben Arthur
Beginning in Invercargill, the gateway to Southland, the streets are lined with grand architecture that gives you a feel of times gone by. But don’t let this fool you, with a thriving coffee scene, exciting events calendar and an inner city rebuild there is plenty to uncover in Invercargill. Rural Southland is the last place you might expect such a considerable mix of cultural and historic nuggets, but Gore is increasingly becoming known for its history, heritage and artwork. It is well worth a visit to learn about the area’s illicit whisky making history, which comes to life in the heritage precinct. The beautifully rugged Catlins coast is a must-do on any visit to Southland, offering a rare taste of true seclusion, the Catlins’ dramatic and stunning scenery draws visitors in to experience its untouched quality. This spectacular coastal stretch is home to an array of marine life – sea lions are regular beach visitors and dolphins can be seen frolicking in the shallows. Keep your eyes peeled for the rare but distinctive hoiho, the yellow-eyed penguin. The last vestige of society before Antarctica is Stewart Island, a raw and natural environment that gives visitors the opportunity to embrace the serenity of nature, spiced with the promise of adventure. This is an unspoilt island environment that basks in glorious sunsets over fresh, clean water and golden sand beaches next to lush native wilderness. A visit to Southland wouldn’t be complete without sampling the local cuisine, some of the world’s best fare is produced within the region, and Southland serves up an eclectic mix of dining experiences; succulent seafood including world-famous Bluff Oysters, farm-fresh vegetables, prime cuts of meat and renowned cheese rolls – each one serves up their own fusion of tradition and local produce. Each one of Southland’s regions offers visitors a unique discovery just waiting to be explored. From the majestic wilderness of Western Southland to the bright lights of Invercargill and the rugged coastline of the Catlins, you will be captivated by every destination. You’ll find the way of life a bit more relaxed, so slow down for a short while, enjoy and discover Southland. o find out more about Southland, T visit southlandnz.com d is c overnewz ealand.ki wi
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