We wanted to do the Rakiura Track on our recent trip to Stewart Island. It was winter though, and I’d read reports of military-grade bed bugs destroying many a recent hut experience. Instead, we opted for a Rakiura Track day walk, and our research led us to the section between Port William and Lee Bay … Read more
I love a good road-side viewpoint. Sometimes it’s nice to not have to walk anywhere – to open your car door and be greeted with a view you would have walked hours to see. McCracken’s Rest, on the southern coast, is one such place. From the small wooden viewing platform you get sweeping views of … Read more
On the eastern shores of Te Wae Wae Bay sits a small section of sand called Gemstone Beach. It’s one of the most popular spots on the road between Invercargill and Te Anau (part of the Southern Scenic Route) and you can visit it in about 5 minutes if you want. Thinking of heading to … Read more
I’ve been to a few “Monkey Islands” in my time, and they’ve always contained actual monkeys. You’ll be disappointed if you’re expecting to see them at Southland’s Monkey Island though, so I’ll tell you what you can see there instead. Where is Monkey Island? Monkey Island is on the southern coast of New Zealand’s South … Read more
There are several waterfalls in the Catlins, and most are just a short walk from the main road. The Waipohatu Waterfall Track is a little more challenging than the rest, but the waterfalls (there are two) are beautiful and it’s a lot quieter and more off the beaten path than the others. Thinking of adding … Read more
The southern coast of New Zealand, roughly the stretch of road between Invercargill and Tuatapere, is home to lots of beaches and bays, and Colac Bay is one of the most popular. There are some nice-looking holiday houses there and a couple of places to eat and drink – and the beach is pretty good … Read more
If you’re looking for a calm little spot along the Southern Scenic Route to eat some lunch or just take a break from the road, you’ve come to the right place. Cosy Nook is a sheltered bay along the windswept southern coast and features a beach, some nice views and an interesting little settlement. Keep … Read more
In a region so blessed with beautiful beaches it can be hard to decide which ones to visit. Curio Bay, towards the southern end of the stretch of coastline known as the Catlins, is special for a few reasons. The main one is that it’s a great place to see dolphins playing in the waves … Read more