Discover Invercargill and The Catlins: New Zealand's Southern Gems

9 Dec

When most people think of New Zealand, images of Queenstown’s adventure sports or Milford Sound’s dramatic fjords come to mind. But head a little further south, and you’ll discover two of the country’s most underappreciated gems: Invercargill and The Catlins. These southern treasures offer a journey into a world of natural beauty, unique wildlife, and authentic Kiwi charm. And with expert guidance from New Zealand Private Tours, you can experience it all with ease and insight.

Here’s why you should add Invercargill and The Catlins to your New Zealand itinerary.

1. Invercargill: New Zealand’s Southernmost City

Invercargill, the southernmost city in New Zealand, is known for its rich heritage, classic motoring history, and friendly locals. It’s the perfect base for exploring the Southland region, with plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained.

Heritage Buildings and Classic Architecture

Walking through the streets of Invercargill, you’ll notice its charming Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Buildings like the historic Water Tower and the grand Civic Theatre showcase the city's heritage, offering visitors a glimpse into its 19th-century past. The city's wide streets and slower pace create a relaxed atmosphere ideal for sightseeing.

Motoring Enthusiasts' Dream: Bill Richardson Transport World

One of Invercargill’s most iconic attractions is the Bill Richardson Transport World, the largest private collection of vehicles in the Southern Hemisphere. This museum is a paradise for motoring enthusiasts, featuring hundreds of vintage cars, trucks, and motorcycles. From classic Fords to unique retro collectables, it’s a place where history, design, and craftsmanship come together.

Burt Munro Legacy: The World’s Fastest Indian

Invercargill is home to the legendary Burt Munro, immortalised in the film The World’s Fastest Indian, starring Sir Anthony Hopkins. Munro’s 1920 Indian Scout motorcycle can be seen at E Hayes & Sons, a hardware store unlike any other. Alongside the motorcycle, you'll find other rare motoring memorabilia, making it a must-visit for anyone with an appreciation for speed and innovation.

Queens Park: A Tranquil Escape

Nature lovers will appreciate Queens Park, a 200-acre botanical haven right in the heart of the city. Walk among the towering trees, explore themed gardens, or visit the on-site animal enclosures. It’s a peaceful spot where you can enjoy a picnic, stretch your legs, and soak up some fresh Southland air.

Explore Invercargill with New Zealand Private Tours
If you'd rather sit back and let someone else handle the logistics, join New Zealand Private Tours for a guided visit to Invercargill. Their expert guides provide local insight, take you to must-see locations, and ensure you experience the charm of New Zealand’s southernmost city. Enjoy a stress-free journey filled with stories, scenic stops, and the chance to explore Invercargill's motoring heritage, stunning parks, and historic sites.

2. The Catlins: A Natural Wonderland

Venture east of Invercargill, and you’ll find yourself in The Catlins, a rugged and wild coastal region renowned for its dramatic scenery and incredible wildlife encounters. Stretching from Fortrose to Kaka Point, this untouched paradise is perfect for travellers looking to connect with nature.

Nugget Point Lighthouse: The Iconic Coastal View

One of The Catlins’ most famous landmarks is Nugget Point Lighthouse, perched on a cliff with sweeping views of the ocean. As you walk along the short path to the lighthouse, you'll spot seals, seabirds, and possibly penguins below. The view of rocky "nuggets" emerging from the sea is unforgettable, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Curio Bay: Fossilised Forest and Rare Wildlife

Curio Bay is unlike any other beach you’ll see in New Zealand. Here, at low tide, you can walk across a 180-million-year-old petrified forest where fossilised tree stumps and logs have been preserved in stone. But it’s not just about the ancient history — wildlife enthusiasts flock to Curio Bay to see the rare Hoiho (Yellow-Eyed Penguin), one of the world’s most endangered penguin species. These shy creatures return to shore in the evenings, offering visitors a chance to see them up close.

Waterfalls Worth Chasing

The Catlins is a land of waterfalls, with some of the most picturesque cascades in New Zealand. Don’t miss:

McLean Falls: Tucked into lush rainforest, this multi-tiered waterfall is one of the tallest and most spectacular in The Catlins.
Purakaunui Falls: One of New Zealand’s most photographed waterfalls, thanks to its stunning three-tiered cascade framed by native bush.
Matai Falls: A short walk through the forest reveals these beautiful, secluded falls that feel like a hidden treasure.

Sea Caves and Coastal Wonders

The Catlins coastline is full of natural wonders, including the unique Cathedral Caves, which can be explored at low tide. These enormous sea caves, carved into the cliffs over millennia, offer a sense of grandeur and adventure. Visitors walk along the beach before entering the cave system, where the echoes and changing light make for a surreal experience.

3. Unique Wildlife Encounters

One of the biggest draws of Invercargill and The Catlins is the chance to see New Zealand’s rare and endangered wildlife in its natural habitat.

Penguins: The Yellow-Eyed Penguin (Hoiho) is most commonly seen at Curio Bay and Roaring Bay near Nugget Point. Unlike other penguins, they’re known for their distinctive yellow eyes and unique vocal calls.
Seals and Sea Lions: Keep an eye on the beaches and rocky shores, where you’ll often spot New Zealand fur seals and Hooker’s sea lions basking in the sun. Unlike penguins, these animals are happy to sprawl on beaches, giving you a closer look at their playful antics.
Birdlife: The Catlins’ forests and coastline are home to many native birds, including kererū (wood pigeon), tūī, and the elusive mōhua (yellowhead). Bring your binoculars for some prime birdwatching.

Experience Wildlife with New Zealand Private Tours
Spotting penguins and sea lions on your own takes patience and local knowledge, but with New Zealand Private Tours, you'll have expert guidance to ensure you don’t miss a thing. Your guide knows the best viewing points and times to spot these rare creatures, giving you a chance to see them up close while respecting their natural environment.

4. Why Visit Invercargill and The Catlins?

For travellers seeking a quieter, more authentic experience of New Zealand’s South Island, Invercargill and The Catlins offer a journey off the beaten track. Invercargill is a cultural and historical hub, while The Catlins is a natural playground filled with waterfalls, caves, and wildlife encounters.

These two destinations combine city comforts with raw natural beauty, giving you the best of both worlds. If you’re heading to Milford Sound, Queenstown, or Dunedin, it’s worth adding an extra few days to explore these hidden gems.

5. How to Visit Invercargill and The Catlins

While many travellers choose to explore Invercargill and The Catlins as part of a self-drive adventure, you can also experience these destinations with the help of New Zealand Private Tours. Their private, small-group tours allow you to sit back and relax as you’re taken to the region’s most iconic locations.

Conclusion

Invercargill and The Catlins offer a unique blend of history, wildlife, and natural beauty. With the expertise of New Zealand Private Tours, you can explore this southern paradise with ease. From Victorian architecture and motoring legends in Invercargill to dramatic coastal landscapes and penguin encounters in The Catlins, it’s an unforgettable experience.

Wayne Hansen