Owaka, population 320, is a bustling metropolis compared to the rest of the Catlins. More a town to spend the night in than somewhere full of sights, it’s on the doorstep of some of the Catlins most spectacular spots. I’ll show you the best things to do in Owaka, both in town and within a … Read more
Barrs Falls is one of the less popular waterfalls in the Catlins, mostly because it often runs dry and there are more impressive (and resilient) waterfalls nearby. We’ve made two trips to Barrs Falls in recent years, one in dry conditions and one after recent rain. This is what we found. Getting to Barrs Falls … Read more
Kaka Point has long been a favourite with locals looking for an escape from city life in Dunedin. Sun, sand and a laidback atmosphere greet travellers to this tiny village with a view of Nugget Point, one of the South Island’s most revered coastal features. We’d passed through Kaka Point a few times but never … Read more
We’ve travelled to the Catlins heaps over the last few years and always seem to find something new to see. Whether you’re doing a day trip to the Catlins or spending a few days in the area, it can be an overwhelming place to plan a trip to (so many beaches and waterfalls!). This Catlins … Read more
If you’re a fan of beaches, waterfalls and stunning coastal viewpoints, you’re going to love the Catlins. The Catlins is in the far southeast of New Zealand’s South Island and it’s the perfect place for a road trip – weather it’s a day trip from Dunedin or part of your journey south to Invercargill / … Read more
There are heaps of iconic spots to visit in the Catlins, but there are also some lesser-known places you’ll pass by on the way to them. Tunnel Hill is one of those places. Definitely not somewhere you’d plan a trip to exclusively, but a worthwhile stop on the Catlins tourist trail all the same. Keep … Read more
The Catlins is one of New Zealand’s best beach destinations, but with all those options it can be hard to know which ones to visit! Luckily, I wrote this post (and you’re reading it) – I’ll show you the best beaches in the Catlins and give you some tips on how to choose the right … Read more
When road tripping around the Catlins you’ll almost definitely want to visit some waterfalls. It’s one of the things the region is most famous for, but where are the best waterfalls in the Catlins? There are a few waterfalls to see, including Purakaunui Falls and McLean Falls, as well as some more off the beaten … Read more
Papatowai Beach, about halfway along the main road through the Catlins, is an awesome place to stop while exploring the area. The beach is great, it’s right next to camping ground and there’s also a unique attraction nearby (you’ll have to keep reading to find out). Papatowai Beach There are heaps of beaches in the … 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