Dunedin Southland

Oamaru
This coastal town north of Dunedin is famous for its white limestone, used in many of the architectural gems of the region, including those of the city’s historic centre. Here the local museum houses a fine collection of Maori rock art. Once considered the finest town on the South Island, Oamaru’s Victorian gardens are delightful and include an oriental and
fragrant plant collection. Aside from the attractions of the town itself, within walking distance visitors can observe both yellow-eyed and blue penguins at their respective colonies. South of the town are the mysterious Moeraki boulders, impressive spherical rocks that lie partly embedded on a beautiful sandy beach.

Catlins Coast
The Catlins, situated on the weather-beaten south-east coast, are a highlight of the Dunedin Southland Route. Winding roads meander past spectacular scenery, including sweeping beaches, rugged coastlines, native bush and numerous waterfalls. A short walk over the cliff-tops leads to Slope Point, the mainland’s southernmost tip, and the fossilised remains of a Jurassic forest can be found at Curio Bay. Seals and sealions, Hector’s dolphins and several different species of penguin can be spotted along the coastline.

Stewart Island
Stewart Island is New Zealand’s third largest island but is often over-looked – allowing it to remain a largely unspoilt wilderness of rainforest, beaches and a vast range of bird-life. In addition to tuis, dotterels and penguins, this is also the best place in New Zealand to see kiwis in the wild.