The Catlins Travel Guide

Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide to The Catlins, South Island, New Zealand. Find information on attractions, activities, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to The Catlins

The Catlins is a stunning region situated on the southeastern coast of the South Island of New Zealand. Unspoiled by modernization, it is home to beautiful landscapes, abundant wildlife, and a rich cultural heritage. Visitors to The Catlins can expect rugged coastlines, lush rainforests, and abundant marine life.

List of Places to Visit in The Catlins

Here are some of the must-visit places in The Catlins.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Whistling Frog Café and Bar

The Whistling Frog Café and Bar is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. It is known for its delicious food, great coffee, and cozy atmosphere. It is situated on the Southern Scenic Route and is an excellent stopover for those on a road trip.

Jack’s Bay

Jack’s Bay is a beautiful beach on the southeastern coast of The Catlins. It is situated in a remote and secluded location, and its white sand and clear waters make it a favorite spot for swimming and surfing.

Natural Attractions of The Catlins: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Cathedral Caves

Cathedral Caves are a unique geological formation in The Catlins. The caves are massive and are big enough to accommodate several people at once. Visitors can explore the caves and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding coastline.

The Purakaunui Falls

The Purakaunui Falls are one of the most photographed waterfalls in New Zealand. They are set in a lush rainforest and are easily accessible from the Purakaunui Falls car park. The falls cascade down three levels, and visitors can walk to the bottom level for a closer look.

Hiking/Biking Routes of The Catlins

The Catlins is home to some of the most scenic hiking and biking trails in New Zealand. Here are some of the popular routes.

The Catlins Coastal Trail

The Catlins Coastal Trail is a 10 km trail that takes you through stunning coastal forests, beaches, and sand dunes. The trail provides ample opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

The Waipohatu Trail

The Waipohatu trail is a 3-day hike that takes you through some of the most remote and beautiful parts of The Catlins. The trail is well-marked, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of the coastline and the rainforest.

Best Things to Do in The Catlins: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of activities and tours to keep you busy in The Catlins. Here are some of the best things to do.

Experience the Local Wildlife

The Catlins is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including rare sea lions, seals, dolphins, and the endangered yellow-eyed penguin. Visitors can take guided tours to see these animals up close.

Visit the Nugget Point Lighthouse

The Nugget Point Lighthouse is a must-visit destination in The Catlins. The lighthouse stands on a rocky outcrop overlooking the ocean and provides stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the lighthouse.

Week-Long Itinerary for The Catlins

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to The Catlins.

Day Activities
1 Explore Dunedin
2 Visit the Nugget Point Lighthouse
3 Hike to Purakaunui Falls
4 Visit Curio Bay and see the petrified forest
5 Visit Cannibal Bay and Nugget Point
6 Take a wildlife tour
7 Hike the Waipohatu trail

Food and Drink Scene of The Catlins

The Catlins is known for its delicious food and local beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

Paua Fritters

Paua Fritters are a popular dish in The Catlins. They are made with minced paua (abalone) and are served with a side of chips and salad.

Blue Cod

Blue Cod is a popular fish in New Zealand, and it is caught fresh in The Catlins. It is cooked in various ways, including battered or grilled, and served with lemon wedges.

Local Beverages

Speights Beer

Speights beer is a favorite of New Zealanders, and visitors to The Catlins can enjoy it at any of the local bars and pubs.

Central Otago Pinot Noir

Central Otago Pinot Noir is a world-renowned wine, and visitors to The Catlins can sample it at any of the wineries in the region.

Where to Stay in The Catlins: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options in The Catlins, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here is a list of some of the best places to stay.

The Whistling Frog Resort

The Whistling Frog Resort is a popular accommodation option in The Catlins. It is situated on the Southern Scenic Route and offers a range of rooms, including budget-friendly backpackers’ rooms and luxurious suites.

The Surat Bay Lodge

The Surat Bay Lodge is a cozy guesthouse situated in a beautiful location in The Catlins. The lodge offers comfortable rooms, a lounge area with a fireplace, and stunning views of the coastline.

What to Buy in The Catlins: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

The Catlins is home to plenty of unique souvenirs and local products. Visitors can bring home some of the following items.

Manuka Honey

Manuka Honey is a popular product in New Zealand, and The Catlins is home to plenty of beekeepers who produce high-quality honey.

Handcrafted Woodwork

The Catlins is home to plenty of talented woodworkers who produce unique and beautiful handcrafted woodwork, including bowls, plates, and furniture.

Local Culture and Customs of The Catlins

The Maori people are the indigenous people of New Zealand, and they have a rich cultural heritage that is celebrated throughout the country. Visitors to The Catlins can learn more about Maori culture and customs at any of the local museums and cultural centers.

Best Time to Visit The Catlins

The best time to visit The Catlins is in the summer months, between December and February. During this time, the weather is mild, and the days are longer, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of The Catlins

Do:

  • Take a guided tour to see the local wildlife
  • Spend some time hiking in the rainforest
  • Visit the Nugget Point Lighthouse for stunning views of the coastline

Don’t:

  • Disturb the local wildlife
  • Leave any trash behind when hiking or sightseeing
  • Ignore warning signs on the beaches

Safety and Health

Safety in The Catlins

The Catlins is generally a safe place for visitors, but it is important to take precautions when hiking or sightseeing in remote areas. Visitors should always stick to marked trails and take appropriate safety measures.

Health in The Catlins

The medical facilities in The Catlins are limited, so visitors should ensure that they have adequate travel insurance before arriving.

Getting to The Catlins: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to The Catlins is easy, and visitors can reach the region through various transportation options.

Airports Near The Catlins

The closest airport to The Catlins is Dunedin International Airport, which is situated approximately 75 km from the region. Visitors can rent a car at the airport or take a shuttle bus to The Catlins.

Bus Stations Near The Catlins

There are several bus companies that operate in The Catlins, including InterCity and Naked Bus. Visitors can take a bus from Dunedin or Invercargill to The Catlins.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a car or camper van and drive to The Catlins. The Southern Scenic Route is a popular option for those on a road trip.

How to Get Around in The Catlins

Getting around in The Catlins is easy, and visitors can choose from various transportation options. The most convenient way to explore the region is by car or camper van, but visitors can also take guided tours or hire bicycles.

Where to Go Next from The Catlins: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can enjoy after visiting The Catlins. Here are some suggestions.

Invercargill

Invercargill is the southernmost city in New Zealand, and it is home to plenty of historic architecture, museums, and galleries.

Queenstown

Queenstown is a popular tourist destination in New Zealand, known for its adventure activities, nightlife, and stunning scenery.

Conclusion

The Catlins is a stunning region that offers visitors a unique and authentic New Zealand experience. With plenty of natural attractions, outdoor activities, and cultural landmarks to explore, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to New Zealand. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide to The Catlins and enjoy all that this beautiful region has to offer.

The Catlins is the southernmost part of the South Island. The Catlins is the southernmost part of the South Island. Road map of the Catlins Road map of the Catlins View from Florence Hill over Tautuku Bay and Tautuku Peninsula View from Florence Hill over Tautuku Bay and Tautuku Peninsula Nugget Point and the Nuggets Nugget Point and the Nuggets