Sights & Activities
Unforgettable Sights
180 million-year-old Petrified Forest – see it revealed as the tide goes out at Curio Bay, one of only three such accessible fossil forests in the world.
Adrenaline-rush
Rope up – take Adventure Southland’s lofty Challenge Ropes Course and brave the High Beam, Rickety Bridge and the Giant Swing that threatens to send you crying home to your mummy! (
www.adventuresouthland.com).
Relax & Indulge
Fly fishing – experience the serenity of fishing for Brown Trout on the Mataura River.
Kiwi-spotting – spend an evening watching wild Kiwi forage on a Stewart Island beach.
Top Picks
Culture
Hokonui Moonshine Museum, Gore – discover the history of illicit whisky making in the southern region during Southland’s colourful ‘moonshine’ days (
www.gorenz.com).
Road Trip
Southern Scenic Route – encounter stunning coastal scenery and rainforest as you drive along the southern coast (
www.southernscenicroute.co.nz).
Luxury
The Lodge at Tikana, near Winton – indulge in exclusive and environmentally aware luxury accommodation nestled amongst fertile southern hills (
www.tikana.co.nz).
Inexpensive or free
Southland Museum and Art Gallery, Invergargill – see live Tuatara, ancient lizard-like creatures, and learn about the region’s cultural history (
www.southlandmuseum.com).
Great for Groups
Fishing charter, Stewart Island – explore the beautiful waters and coastline by charter boat.
Culinary Experience
Bluff Oysters – visitors should take the opportunity to sample the local delicacy fresh from the sea, or go to the festival in autumn.
Exclusive Dining
El Tigre, Invercargill – one of the town’s more upbeat restaurants with an eclectic and contemporary menu (t. +64 3 214 6914).
Casual Dining
Riverton Beach House, Riverton – award-winning food with an awesome view of the beach (t. +64 3 234 8274).
Café
Sweet Chilli’s Café, Invercargill – café fare in the heart of the town (t. +64 3 218 7340).
Swishy Bar
The Kiln Monteith’s Bar & Restaurant, Invercargill – fire up some good times with a Monteith’s boutique beer and excellent food (t. +64 3 218 2258).
Cosy Pub
Waxy O’Shea’s Irish Pub, Invercargill – enjoy wonderful food, wonderful people, and wonderful music in authentic Irish surroundings (t. +64 3 214 0313).
Shop or Gallery
Rakiura Glowing Sky, Stewart Island – purchase high quality hand printed cotton and merino wool garments and at this shop in Halfmoon Bay (t. +64 3 219 1518).
