While you’re cruising around on your holiday a rainy day is never a welcome sight, but along the Southern Scenic Route there are many things to do and explore when the grey clouds come out.

Book a cozy room for a relaxing day

A bad weather day is always a good excuse to treat yourself to a night in a warm and comfortable abode. The entire route offers a multitude of accommodation options, from luxurious cabin life at The Canyons B&B in Queenstown, to cozy Surat Bay Lodge. With no rush to be anywhere you can enjoy a slow start, a warm drink and a board game or your favourite book.

Experience New Zealand’s cafe culture

Along the route you’re likely to find a cafe in even the tiniest town. A hot coffee or tea, fresh scone and nowhere to be in a hurry sounds good to us. Keep a lookout for cafe signs and enjoy baked goods and tasty drinks served up by the locals. Orepuki Beach Cafe or Bracken Hall in Mossburn are popular choices and the only problem you’ll have in Dunedin is deciding on your favourite choice!

Visit the cities for museums and shopping

Along the Southern Scenic Route are bustling cities Queenstown, Invercargill and Dunedin, rich with places to explore indoors when it’s wet out. Queenstown is a great place to shop, with upmarket stores, souvenir shops and boutiques to hunt through. Meanwhile, Invercargill’s Bill Richardson Transport World has the largest private automotive museum of its type in the world, as well as a growing wearable arts collection, movie theatre and children’s play zones.

In Dunedin you’ll find the new Toitu Early Settlers Museum and the Otago Museum where you can brush up on your knowledge of New Zealand, past and present, as well as other places in the Pacific and further afield. This creative city is also home to many galleries and eateries to end the day on a high.

Embrace the beauty

They say there’s no such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing, a statement that perfectly describes the missed opportunities that occur when avoiding the bad weather. The dramatic landscapes of the whole lower South Island have been carved out over millions of years and the incredible spaces are considered more majestic when seen in the rain. Take Milford Sound – although impressive whenever you go, there is something extra special about Milford in the rain, watching the water cascade from cliffs towering above.

The fog settling over the Chasland Forests and waves rolling in across the bays throughout the Catlins provide the perfect backdrop to inspire your inner creative so if you are looking to rediscover some favourite past times, this could be perfect opportunity.

New Zealand’s cultural stories are woven into our people, land, townships and cities. Here we’ll take a step into the past, exploring Maori, European and Chinese cultures in this country, and share a few specific places to visit along your journey.

Maori origins in the South Island

The Maori people have called the South Island home for some 1,000 years. The first inhabitants of the South Island were the Waitaha iwi, who journeyed here from Rarotonga. They named the island Te Wai Pounamu, translated to ‘The Greenstone Isle’.

In the following years, two northern tribes moved to the South Island. Ngati Mamoe arrived from Heretaunga/Hastings in the 16th century, conquering and absorbing many original iwi through land wars and marriage. Then, in the 18th century, the Ngai Tahu arrived in the South Island from Te Whanganui-a-Tara/Wellington, moving into new territories through tribal alliances and strategic marriages. Finally, in the 19th century, Ngati Toa moved in and challenged Nagati Tahu. Eventually conflicts subsided and the tribes came to a peaceful period, with intermarriage between families.

In 1800, about 20,000 people considered themselves Kai Tahu, with some still identifying as Ka ti Mamoe. Today, the influence of Kai Tahu can still be seen in many places along the Southern Scenic Route.

Historical Maori landmarks

Located in the Jericho Valley near Te Anau, the Te Koawa Turoa O Takitimu site is managed by Kai Tahu. With many plants, wildlife and fisheries the area offered the local people a bounty of food. Today, the site is where you can learn more about the values of mahika kai (the gathering of food and other resources). There are also many opportunities for biking, walking, hunting and fishing.

The name Te Puka o Takitimu was given to what is also known as Monkey Island by the Ngai Tahu iwi. It is considered to be the anchor stone of the legendary Takitimu waka (canoe) that was wrecked in the bay. Once used as a lookout point for Southern Right Whales, it is now an ideal location to stop for a break and to explore the island – which can be reached by foot at low tide.

In the 1820s, Pahi/Cosy Nook, as it was named after Ngai Tahu Chief Pahi, was known as one of the largest and oldest Maori villages in coastal Murihiku. It was made up of 40-50 whare (houses) and was a place of exchange between Maori and European traders. Here you would find sealers and flax merchants trading for iron goods, muskets, powder and shot. The name Cosy Nook came from Captain George Thomson, Harbourmaster of Bluff, who named his property Cozy Neuk after his homeland Scottish village.

The first European settlers, and the rush for gold

The first European to properly settle in New Zealand was James Spencer, a veteran of Waterloo, who made his home at Bluff in 1823. He was closely followed by the arrival of French explorer James Dumont d’Urville in 1827. Later, in 1836, Riverton/Aparima was established as a base for whaling by Captain John Howell.

Following the Treaty of Waitangi in February 1840, many more settlers from Britain arrived. Despite a significant clash between Maori and British in 1843, called the Wairau Massacre in older texts, the South Island remained relatively peaceful while the North Island experienced many land wars throughout the 1860s and 70s.

Gold was discovered in 1861, with several gold rushes to follow. In the 1860s, thousands of Chinese men, predominantly from the Guangdong province, came to the South Island to make their fortune with the rare mineral. Goldmining history, including historic Chinese settlements, can be found at several places along the SSR, including the side trip of Arrowtown.

European and Chinese historical sites to visit

There are many museums, historical sites, significant landmarks and interesting architecture to be seen along the SSR. Two culturally significant and less frequented museums are the Waikawa Museum and Bluff Maritime Museum.

At Waikawa you can see historic artefacts from the area and find information about local history, including early agriculture, shipping disasters, goldmining and sawmilling. Meanwhile, Bluff’s Maritime Museum houses historical facts and stories about the many early shipwrecks in the wild southern waters and coastlines, as well as history of Bluff, the oldest European settled community.

Other attractions offer a view into the past as well as picturesque natural landscapes. Long Hilly Track, starting at Round Hill Road, takes you through regenerating native bush and relics from the little-known days of early Chinese goldmining activity in Southland. Along the way you’ll see a tramway cutting to old earth dams and a variety of native plants and birds.

Finally, a trip to the seaside town of Riverton/Aparima is to see one of the oldest European settlements in New Zealand. Nearly 200 years old, it offers a heritage museum, local artist’s studios, cafes, boutiques and beaches.

Tucked away along the Southern Scenic Route (SSR) are multiple side trips and hidden treasures. From wild coastlines to stunning lakes and quirky towns, there are many places to visit off the main route.

Wild Coastline

With bays and beaches aplenty, often found down the end of a winding road, The Catlins has many traveller friendly spots that still feel untouched. Curio Bay is notable for its wild beaches, marine life and friendly locals, but one of the more remote spots in the Catlins is Purakaunui Bay that is a little off the beaten track and offers up breathtaking views of the nearby cliff face and a sandy beach that is prone to visitors of the sea lion variety.

Venture a little bit further on from Dunedin to find the Otago Peninsula. Only a short enough drive on from the CBD, the peninsula is great for a day or overnight trip and offers many wonderful destinations, including the township of Portobello, blue penguin/kokora spotting at Pukekura, and Pipikaretu Beach for swimming and lunch.

Stunning Lakes

There’s nothing like a lake on a cool, calm day to make you feel completely at peace, and the SSR cruises by some truly stunning lakeside spots. Two top picks are Te Anau Downs, with views over Lake Te Anau, and Lake Hauroko, located in Western Southland and arguably one of New Zealand’s most beautiful lakes.

Quirky Towns

Dotted along the SSR are many quirky and colourful towns, and places that offer a glimpse into times past. If you’re up for a truly hidden side trip, head to Waikawa in The Catlins. This small settlement has accommodation options, a lovely beach and historic attractions.

Another town that gets a mention, but is significantly less hidden, is Arrowtown. Now a popular tourist destination, this picturesque and old-timey town is easy to miss if it’s not on your list. On your way to or from Queenstown, head here to find many shops, cafes and eateries, as well as a museum where you can learn about the origins of the town.

Majestic Mountains

Near Queenstown are two mountainous areas that are rich with outdoor activities and include some of the best hikes in the country.

The Remarkables Conservation Area, off SH6, has the Lake Alta Track which winds through generous and welcoming forests and alpine areas. In the other direction, towards the West Coast, is Glenorchy, a quaint town by Lake Wakatipu and a gateway to some of New Zealand’s great walks.

A journey along the Southern Scenic Route (SSR) is a chance to experience the surprising delight of New Zealand’s unique wildlife. Take to the forests and you’ll encounter the lively birds that are native to this country, while along the coast you’ll meet many seabirds and marine mammals that call the area home.

Explore the lush forests

With Fiordland National Park, Takitimu Conservation Area and The Catlins Conservation Park, the route covers an abundance of native forest. Among the trees, ferns and mosses are many species of birds.

The aptly named bellbird/korimako is one you’ll hear before you see – listen for the bell-like sound and look for a small, olive coloured bird. The tui, with its distinctive white chest plumage, is found in abundance in the forests, as is the fantail/piwakawaka and New Zealand pigeon/kukupa kereru. Two other friendly locals are the vibrant green New Zealand parakeet/kakariki and grey warbler/riroriro, which can be difficult to distinguish from the foliage.

With a population of less than 5,000, the yellowhead/mohua can be seen in the beech forests of The Catlins. With a small frame and a bright yellow head and body, this sweet little bird can be hard to see but is worth keeping your eye out for.

Stop by the coast

The coastline of the SSR is one of the best places to visit in New Zealand for marine wildlife. At different times of the year you’re likely to meet many seabirds, penguins, seals and sealions.

With a number of popular breeding grounds, The Catlins are a go-to place to spot seals and sealions. At Nugget Point/Tokata, between 300 and 500 NZ fur seals/kekeno pups are born each year. The larger and more boisterous Southern elephant seals/ihupuku visit this area during late summer. To spot NZ sea lion/whakahoe families more frequently year-round, head to Waipapa Point or Surat, Cannibal and Porpoise bays.

All along the coastline of the Southernmost tip are seabirds galore. Keep your eyes peeled for Stewart Island shags/koau, migratory muttonbirds/titi and white-fronted terns/tara. Estuaries are where you’ll find wading birds including the royal spoonbills/kotuku-ngutupapa, wrybills/ngutu pare or parore, white herons/kotuku and dotterels.

A short trip from Dunedin is the Otago Peninsula, notable for its albatross breeding grounds and Royal Albatross Centre. Here you can discover fascinating facts about the birds, their life and the projects of the area. To sit on the peninsula and witness these mighty birds gliding by, with wingspans of three metres and more, is a memorable experience.

Finally, one of the most delightful birds you can meet along the SSR are penguins. A few hours either side of dawn and dusk you’re most likely to witness blue penguins/korora in their natural habitat. Down on the Southeast coast there are about 450 pairs of endangered yellow-eyed penguins/hoiho. Designated viewing platforms and hides at Roaring Bay and Curio Bay are a fantastic way to see the birds without disturbing them.

If you’re lucky and have keen eyesight (or binoculars in hand) you’ll see whales and dolphins from high points of The Catlins or in Foveaux Strait atop Bluff Hill. Southern right whales cruise by on their migration paths, while Hector’s dolphins/upokohue come to Te Waewae and Porpoise Bays in the summer months.

Love our wildlife

To witness these wild and wonderful animals from such a close distance is undeniably a special experience. To make sure everyone has the opportunity to do so and the communities continue to thrive, it’s important to respect the animals and their space. This is especially important during breeding seasons, as this is a crucial time for many populations along the coast.

The majority of areas have helpful signs in place, or the Department of Conservation website has guidelines and additional information on the different animals and projects that are underway.

Picture this – you’re sitting next to your special someone, cool drink in hand, watching the sun set over majestic mountains and lush native forests. All you can hear is the sound of birds singing and the wind rustling in the trees.

Whether you’re after a hidden getaway, an adventurous new activity or a nature escape, the Southern Scenic Route has a treasure trove of options.

Enjoy a luxurious couple’s getaway

Queenstown is a lover’s dream. The Onsen Hot Pools, for instance, offers the Lantern Light package where you can enjoy the wooden, rustic spa pools by night, with lanterns and the stars creating a romantic ambiance.

Tahakopa Bay Retreat in The Catlins is a superb place to stop for a couple’s getaway. At this secluded retreat you’ll have panoramic views of the coastal forests and the surrounding farm. A unique experience, the place is fully off grid while still making sure you have all of the comforts you need.

Also located in The Catlins is Beresford Heights, a boutique stay ideal for you and your partner. Here you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, enjoying peace, space and a home away from home.

Try something new

Colac Bay/Oraka is a great place to go with a surfboard in tow. With waves suitable for all levels this popular spot is good for first timers. The small township and nearby Riverton/Aparima boasts cafes and heritage sites to complete your day’s adventure.

Kayaking trips or jet boating in Fiordland take you right into the unique landscape to witness it up close with your loved one by your side. Friendly expert guides take you through the tall channels right out to sea, filling you in on the history of the area and pointing out local wildlife.

Reconnect in nature

Along the route are many incredible walks and hikes, ranging from half an hour to multiple days. The Kepler Track, starting from Te Anau, is one of New Zealand’s Great Walks and takes 3-4 days. This incredible adventure will see you and your partner venturing into the mountains of Fiordland and making memories to last. Huts along the walk must be booked in advance.

McLeans Falls Scenic Reserve is where you can see one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Southland. The short 20 minute walk is memorable for the delight at the end – the falls. Also in the area are a number of coastal attractions, including Nugget Point/Tokata.

Natural wonders, exciting adventures, wildlife sightings and secluded retreats are some of the treats of the Southern Scenic Route (SSR). We’ve picked out eight top spots to wake up on the SSR, including incredible sunrise options and places with all day adventures.

The Remarkables

Waking up to the sun rising over The Remarkables is a sight to behold. As the icy tips of the mountains are touched with the first rays of sun, you can sit back and enjoy your tea or coffee before a busy day of exploring the many natural attractions of the area. Frankton has many choices for accommodation, from modern luxury to family friendly holiday homes.

Doubtful Sound

An overnight cruise around Doubtful or Milford Sound is an experience to remember. The cruises take you into the peaceful waters of the fiords, with expert guides sharing more of the origins of the awe-inspiring channels as well as the marine animals that frequent the area.

Te Anau

The township of Te Anau offers a number of lakeside accommodation options, giving you the chance to catch the first light of day on the pristine waters. There are also many hikes in the area, as well as Milford Sound north of the town, making this a good place to start a full day adventure.

Manapouri

Another peaceful lakeside stay is Manapouri. Here you’ll have everything you need for a quiet night before continuing on to Te Anau or Western Southland. There are a handful of smaller accommodation options available, including Cabot Lodge and Possum Lodge.

Bluff

As well as giving you the chance to watch the sunrise over the end of the world, Bluff is a great place to be early in the morning because it’s the gateway to Stewart Island. You can take a morning plane or ferry, and spend your day exploring all the island has to offer.

Owaka

Owaka is a go-to place to begin your journey into The Catlins. A popular accommodation option that makes the most of beautiful surrounding views is Tiromoana. The fully self-contained lodge is five minutes from the township, close to many attractions, and is both comfortable and peaceful.

Curio Bay

With friendly, locally-owned campgrounds and holiday homes right on the coast, Curio and surrounding bays are a great place to stop for the night. Waking up early will reward you with a gorgeous sunrise and give you the chance to see local wildlife as the world wakes up. Hector’s dolphins, yellow-eyed penguins, and New Zealand fur seals and sea lions are often spotted in this area.

Otago Peninsula

Staying at one of the gorgeous and rustic accommodation options on the Otago Peninsula will give you unobscured access to the peninsula and all it has to offer, including sighting the mighty albatross, penguins and fur seals early in the morning.

The last few years has seen a rise in eco-friendly tourism options, and the Southern Scenic Route is no exception. Along the highway you’ll find many environmentally conscious activities, nature experiences and boutique accommodation choices.

Environmental Centres

The SSR offers attractions specifically focused on conservation and environmentally friendly practices, including Riverton Environment Centre and Earthlore in The Catlins.

The Earthlore Wildlife Gardens is part gardens and part fun park, with a consistent commitment to conservation. Here you’ll not only see gardens and animals, but be invited to a Flea Circus Puppet Show, a mini Frisbee Golf course, a traditional gypsy caravan complete with dress-ups, and more. There is also a gift store onsite so you can take some of the fun home with you.

The Riverton Environment Centre is where members of the South Coast Environment Society meet to brainstorm and implement community and environment initiatives in the Southland region. The centre runs workshops and events, and also has an organic food co-op which sells produce, plants and gardening supplies. Check out the Facebook page for the most up to date information. If you book in advance, you can also join Robert and Robyn Guyton on a guided tour of their 25 year old forest garden.

Eco-friendly accommodation

The route also offers accommodation options that are both eco-friendly and luxurious. This includes Mohua Park and Beresford Heights in The Catlins.

Mohua Park has four eco cottages in a peaceful location with stunning vistas of the farmland and bush of the valley. With self-catered or bed and breakfast options, you can choose to have a private getaway or treat yourself to a fresh breakfast to start your day. Owners Lyndon and Gill have extensive knowledge of the area and are happy to share their tips. Their website is a great place to learn more about how the park was built sustainably.

Beresford Heights is situated at the top of Table Hill and is another romantic getaway that accentuates the natural environment surrounding the abode. The self-contained boutique lodges are the ideal place to relax, with an outdoor barbeque and hot tub making this a go-to place when the weather is warmer. If you’re not feeling like cooking, the Beresford Bundle has got you covered, including many locally sourced delicacies.

Nature Experiences

Energising experiences in naturally stunning locations will make your holiday a time to remember. Welcome Rock Trails in Northern Southland and WJet in Western Southland are two of our top picks.

Welcome Rock Trails in Northern Southland was built with the intention of offering great fun while still respecting and maintaining the wildlife reserve where it’s situated. In fact, Welcome Rock is now a nationally protected ecological area. The farm offers low impact hiking and biking, as well as jeep, walking and farm dog tours on the lower part of the farm. Accommodation options at the farm are something special, with magnificent views of surrounding areas and stars at night.

WJet is a jet boat tour company that has a strong focus on maintaining eco-friendly practices. The main tour spans 94 kilometres through the Fiordland National Park, taking you all the way to the sea and back. All rides operate under the company’s conservation initiative, which works to maintain the pristine environment of Kale Hauroko, Wairaurahiri River and surrounding areas.

An ongoing focus on sustainability

With electric vehicle charging stations along the route, more eco lodges cropping up and many shops stocking local and environmentally-conscious goods, the SSR continues to develop into an area of New Zealand that values the earth and makes an effort to maintain our beautiful home.

The Southern Scenic Route (SSR) passes through many sites of historical significance, offering fascinating glimpses into times past. These landmarks, buildings and museums are an excellent way to discover more about the origins of New Zealand’s South Island.

Exploring natural landmarks

McCracken’s Rest invites you to look one million years into the past. From the viewing platform, look out over Te Waewae Bay to see the ancient Solander Islands, that were formed from the remnants of a volcano. Maori legend says the Solanders were created when Kewa the whale chewed between Stewart Island/Rakiura and the mainland, and tossed aside its broken tooth and crumbs.

Whale Fossil Lookout gives excellent views of Lake Waihola, and also houses whale and dolphin fossils from the nearby lime quarries that are 24-34 million years old.

Cosy Nook/Pahi is a historic Kai Tahu settlement, where once 40-50 homes of the local Maori iwi stood and many came to trade goods and services. The small nearby island of Matariki was a defended pa site. Today, you’ll find many fishing boats, holiday homes and calm spots for a bite to eat.

Bluff Hill/Motupohue offers views over the Foveaux Strait/Te Ara a Kiwa and the Southland Plains, and includes walking tracks from one to three hours. It’s a place of cultural significance to Kai Tahu, and is a topuni site. This refers to the traditional Kai Tahu custom of rangatira (chiefs) extending their mana (power and authority) over areas or people, by placing their cloaks over them.

Visiting historic buildings

Sod Cottage, open to visitors at any time, was built in the 1860s as a stopping place for miners heading to the goldfields. It has been restored by the South Otago Historical Society, and was reopened on May 30, 1970.

Invercargill Water Tower, sitting at 40 metres high, is arguably the city’s best-known landmark. The tower was the city’s main water supply, and took 300,000 bricks to be built. It was completed in 1889. Due to earthquake safety, the tower isn’t open to the public, but you can still visit the site.

The Dunedin Botanic Garden was completed in 1869, making it New Zealand’s first botanic garden. It’s now recognised as a Garden of International Significance and includes many sunny lawns, plant and bird species, horticultural and botanic collections, and a geographic plant collection with flora and fauna from all over the world.

Larnach Castle is the country’s only castle, built in 1871 by William Larnach. It is now owned by and cared for by the Barker family, who purchased it in 1967 and have been restoring it ever since. You can choose to purchase a ticket to the gardens or both the gardens and the castle.

Finding heritage stories at local museums

The Waikawa Museum and Information Centre presents many displays about early settlers and lives in this once busy port town. There are stories about early agriculture, shipping disasters, goldmining and sawmilling. Near to the centre are short walks of around 20 minutes.

Owaka Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of The Catlins region, sharing maritime heritage stories, facts about early life in the region, Maori taonga and family lineage documentation.

Te Hikoi Southern Journey Heritage Museum, a short drive from Invercargill, provides interesting insight into Maori and European settlement in the area. There are life size displays, ancestral stories and interactive exhibits.

Described as the touring route to rule them all, and rated as one of the Top 10 Drives in the world, it is not hard to find a reason to get out and explore the Southern Scenic Route.

We’ve compiled a driving itinerary that includes all the major attractions and stops along the way. You don’t need to limit yourself to a day in each place – each of these wonders command hours of attention so if you have the time to enjoy then spread each destination over a couple of days to truly take in the best the regions have to offer. Whether you choose to start your trip in Dunedin or do it in reverse from Queenstown is your choice but you will find plenty of iconic activities along the way.

DUNEDIN

Quick Tips

• Larnach’s Castle Tour
• Street Art City Tour
• Tunnel Beach
• Eateries

Your time in Dunedin will be stolen away from you as you find an abundance of splendid architecture to explore – like Larnach Castle which dates back to 1871. A guided tour through the castle will enthrall you and send you on a journey back in time.

Try the Street Art Trail that takes you through the central city and will delight the senses. Although you can guide yourself with a copy of the map, the best way to experience this is with a guided tour.

On a dry day, seek out Tunnel Beach which is becoming renowned for its ‘edge of the world’ appeal and secret tunnel leading down to the cove below.

CLUTHA & THE CATLINS

Quick Tips

• Nugget Point Lighthouse
• Purakaunui Falls
• Cathedral Caves
• Curioscape at Curio Bay
• Slope Point

The journey from Dunedin and into Clutha continues to reward you with heritage spots and in to the breathtaking Catlins. The must do stop at Nugget Point Lighthouse treats you to encounters with the sea lions and seals bathing on the rocks below and the look out to the horizon over the nuggets can only be described as majestic. For those wanting to get as close as possible, try a Kayak tour at sunrise!

The roads through the Catlins weave between the forest and coastline and provides plenty of opportunity to ogle at the views. A brief stop for a 5 minute walk at Purakaunui Falls gets you up close to one of New Zealand’s most photographed waterfalls.

Depending on the time of year and the tide – paid access to the Cathedral Caves is provided by landowners and this is one experience not to miss. The caves are 200 m long and 30 m high and are a renowned geological formation worldwide.

Depending on your preferred style of accommodation, there is a good choice of B&B’s available and the hub of Curio Bay in the Catlins offers both campground and B&B style along the shore. Home to a 250 million year old Petrified Forest and Hoiho (Yellow Eyed Penguin) nesting ground on one side of the Bay and a perfect swimming and bathing spot for those looking to relax, there is often a pod of Hectors Dolphin swimming in the bay that are friendly to those surfing in the area. The local cafe, Curioscape also offers an interactive and sensory captivating experience demonstrating the geological changes of millions of years.

The southern most point of the South Island is located along the route and when you journey so far it is an absolute prerequisite to stop at Slope Point to acknowledge how far you’ve come!

INVERCARGILL

Quick Tips

• Bluff Signpost
• Transport World
• Dig This
• Queens Park

Almost the halfway point for the route and a place full of surprises. With the short drive out to Bluff to the very start of State Highway 1 and the infamous Bluff signpost, it is worth stopping by one of the local eateries to sample some of the finest and freshest seafood usually netted from the Foveaux Strait before you.

For some more iconic moments, prepare to spend hours meandering through the Bill Richardson Transport World – an emporium of all things and not just vehicular! With wearable art, a theatre, and ode’s to many famous icons like the Cadbury Factory, the film Goodbye Pork Pie and of course Bill Richardson himself.

The highlight for many is moving from behind the wheel to behind the sticks of heavy machinery at Dig This, where you can test your grit on the diggers and bulldozers.

When you are ready to enjoy the simpler sounds of nature, take advantage of the easy access Queens Park, centrally located in the middle of Invercargill and recognised as an International Garden of Significance this park houses a golf course, English rose garden, a Chinese garden, a stumpery and of course a children’s playground.

WESTERN SOUTHLAND

Quick Tips

• Riverton Shopping
• Te Hikoi Museum
• Surfing or SUPping
• Tuatapere Sausage Tasting

Welcome to the home of the Southern Scenic Route! Again it is easy to see how it got its name with the views along the coastline of Western Southland just as brilliant as the eastern side.

The funky main street of Riverton offers up plenty of interesting galleries, environment and thrift stores that perfectly complement the vibes of the seaside town. With Te Hikoi Museum rounding out the end of the Main Street, it is worth a look in to find out more about the regions rich Maori and European settler history.

Dip the toes in at some of the best beaches, whether you are looking for a surf at Colac Bay or wanting to laze on the beach at Monkey Island there is a choice to suit all recreational activities.

Tuatapere is the township near the beginning of the Humpridge Track and close to the deepest lake in NZ, Lake Hauroko. It has also proclaimed the title of Sausage Capital and these tasty original recipe snags are still up for grabs at the Tui Base Camp.

TE ANAU

Quick Tips

• Takahe Feeding
• Glow Worm Caving
• Jet Boat Ride
• Lake Cruise

The gateway to one of the world’s most stunning regions, Te Anau has so much to offer as a base for the visitor. With Great Walks surrounding you and a lakefront to relax beside, we won’t blame you if you stick around for a few days. Spend an extra day to travel up to Milford Sound for a lake cruise before carrying on to the next destination.

Try out the Glow Worm caves that are available by guided tour. Perfect for families looking to get inside the depths of Fiordland National Park without having to hike through it.

The Takahē feeding at Te Anau Bird Sanctuary will fill the hearts of any visitor with these rotund little birds ‘fostering’ takahē chicks as part of a national breeding programme.

Get out on the water with one of the lake cruises – be it as a slow pace to enjoy the fresh water surroundings or something to take the adrenalin levels up a notch on the jet boat. Lake Te Anau is becoming a hub for recreation.

QUEENSTOWN

Quick Tips

• Cellardoor Dining
• Jet Boating
• Walter Peak Cruise
• Mountain Biking
• Ski

The drive from Te Anau to Queenstown takes you past some of the best fresh water fishing rivers in the world. Anglers find it to be a nirvana so don’t be afraid of casting your line out if you are looking for a break during the drive.

Suggestions are endless for activties to do in Queenstown. The adventure capital of New Zealand. But it is not always about throwing yourself off a ledge with a bungy or down a mountain on skis – try dining out at one of the cellardoors in the region. Catch a cruise over Lake Wakatipu on the famous TSS Earnslaw that can take you over to Walter Peak Station.

For rest and retreat let Onsen Hot Pools alleviate the days driving pains with a hot spa overlooking the valley below.

Driving along the Southern Scenic Route, you’ll quickly discover there are hundreds of great spots to stop for a bite to eat. While part of the fun is to happen upon these stunning locations, we’re getting you started with a list of the 8 top places to have your picnic.

Taramea/Howells Point

Another place perfect for picnics and surrounded by gorgeous vistas is Taramea/Howells Point. Along with your picnic, this spot is great for walking, fishing and bird watching. While you tuck in, you can also feast your eyes on the stunning Taramea Bay, and on a clear day see out to Invercargill, Bluff and Stewart Island/Rakiura.

Monkey Island Beach

There’s nothing like calm blue seas, warm sandy beaches and a picnic to make it feel like you’re truly on holiday. Monkey Island Beach is one of a kind, and complete with picnic tables and toilets it’s an excellent backdrop for a lunch break. At low tide, the island can be reached at foot. A stairway will take you to the top, where you can look out over Te Waewae Bay and Fiordland’s mountains.

Queens Reach Recreation Reserve

Just a short drive on from Te Anau you’ll hit Queens Reach. Right by the Waiau River, and with picnic tables and toilets, this is an excellent place to stop for your lunch before continuing on. The area is also popular for walking, fishing and boating.

McCracken’s Rest

McCracken’s Rest is where you’ll be treated with splendid views of Te Waewae Bay and the ancient Solander Islands to the south. When the weather is fine you can see Sand Hill Point, the Hump Ridge, Paihia Point and Stewart Island. The area is complete with parking spaces, a viewing platform and picnic tables.

Waipohatu Walk and Recreation Area

A short drive from the main highway is the Waipohatu Walk and Recreation Area. Here you’ll find a picnic site, from which you can take a short bush walk through the coastal forests. If you’re after a longer hike, the Waipohatu Waterfall Walk is 6.5k and takes about three hours.

Kids Playground, Queens Park

Queens Park in Invercargill is a great place to stop for a picnic, especially if you’ve got kids in tow. The large and varied playground can entertain the little ones while you set up your meal, and the rest of the gardens is a great place to walk and explore once the food is gone.

Queenstown Gardens

A serene break from the city, while still being very central, the Queenstown Gardens serves as a wonderful place to have a cold drink and sandwiches, either during a busy day in the city or on your way to your next destination. Along with many places to lay a picnic blanket, there’s also a simple 30 minute loop walk with views of Lake Wakatipu.