About Southland

Southland, New Zealand's southernmost mainland region, offers travelers a breathtaking blend of raw wilderness, rich history, and unique wildlife. Dominated by the majestic Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the region is home to the world-famous Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, where sheer cliffs plunge into dark waters and waterfalls cascade from rainforests. The gateway city of Invercargill provides a charming base with its well-preserved Edwardian architecture and the fascinating Transport World museum. Venture to Bluff for its iconic oyster festival and the signpost marking the start of State Highway 1. The Catlins coast reveals hidden gems like Cathedral Caves, Curio Bay's petrified forest, and colonies of rare yellow-eyed penguins. For history buffs, the gold rush town of Riverton and the heritage trails tell stories of Māori and European settlement. Southland's sparse population means vast, untouched landscapes await exploration, from the remote Stewart Island/Rakiura, a sanctuary for native birds, to the rolling green pastures that define its rural heart. This is a region for adventurers seeking solitude, dramatic scenery, and authentic encounters with nature.

Travel Tips for Southland

Getting Around

A rental car is highly recommended for exploring the region's dispersed attractions. Major rental companies operate from Invercargill Airport. InterCity coaches provide limited bus services between main towns and to key trailheads. In Invercargill, the local bus service (Invercargill City Council Buses) covers the urban area. Taxis and ride-share services (like Uber) are available in Invercargill. For Stewart Island, regular passenger ferries and flights operate from Bluff. Popular navigation apps like Google Maps and Maps.me work well, but carry physical maps for remote areas with limited cell coverage.

Best Time To Visit

December to March (summer and early autumn) offer the warmest and most stable weather, long daylight hours (perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing), and events like the Bluff Oyster & Food Festival (May). This is the peak tourist season. April and May (autumn) provide stunning foliage and fewer crowds. Winter (June-August) is cold and wet but offers a dramatic, moody atmosphere in Fiordland and opportunities for storm watching. Snow can affect road passes.

Local Customs

New Zealanders (Kiwis) are generally informal and friendly. A firm handshake is a common greeting. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for exceptional service. Dress is casual, but smart-casual attire is suitable for nicer restaurants. When visiting marae (Māori meeting grounds), it is respectful to follow the guidance of your hosts, which may include removing shoes. Respect the environment by following the 'Tiaki Promise' – care for land, sea, and nature, and tread lightly. Punctuality is valued.

Safety Information

Southland is generally very safe with low crime rates. Standard precautions for personal belongings apply in towns. The primary risks are environmental. Weather in Fiordland and coastal areas can change rapidly; always check forecasts and be prepared for cold, rain, and strong winds. Inform someone of your plans before undertaking remote hikes (e.g., Kepler or Milford Tracks). Roads can be narrow, winding, and shared with livestock; drive cautiously, especially at dawn/dusk. Be aware of rising tides when exploring coastal areas like the Catlins. There are no specific areas to avoid, but standard vigilance is advised at night in urban centers.

Health Information

Medical facilities are concentrated in Invercargill (Southland Hospital) and Gore (Gore Health). For remote areas like Fiordland or Stewart Island, comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation is essential. There are no unusual disease risks, but standard travel vaccinations (e.g., routine, hepatitis A & B) are recommended. The climate can be cold, wet, and windy; hypothermia is a risk for hikers. Sandflies are prevalent in Fiordland; strong insect repellent is advised. Tap water is safe to drink. Always carry any necessary prescription medications, as access in remote areas may be limited.

Languages Spoken

EnglishMāori

Quick Facts

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
$

Timezone

Pacific/Auckland +12:00 (GMT)

Calling Code

+64

Electricity

Type I; 230V, 50Hz
Socket types →

Driving Side

Left

Population

102,400

Area

34415 km²

Government

Regional Council (Southland Regional Council) and Territorial Authorities (Invercargill City Council, Southland District Council, Gore District Council)

ISO Code

NZ-F8

About Southland

Places to visit in Southland

Woman With The Birds

Light Source

Symbion

Paleozoic Landscape

Courtyard Toledo West

Twisted People

The Noble Horse

Joyful Dancer

Goose

Goose

Econo Lodge

Rings

Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Holland/Toledo Area

Red Roof Inn Toledo - University

Bel-Air Motel