Travel from Dunedin to Invercargill on a full-day guided tour that follows the dramatic southern coastline through the remote Catlins region. With your local guide leading the way, enjoy a relaxed small-group experience that blends storytelling, scenery, and hidden gems. Every stretch of road reveals something new — from windswept cliffs and ancient forests to quiet villages and golden beaches.
Pause for breathtaking views at Nugget Point Lighthouse and feel the spray of Purakaunui Falls deep in native bush. Stop for lunch and a dose of quirky creativity at the Lost Gypsy Caravan in Papatowai before heading to Curio Bay’s ancient petrified forest. As the day winds down, the journey continues toward Invercargill — a fitting finale to a day spent exploring one of New Zealand’s most untouched and captivating regions.
Tour Inclusions
Small group experience (max 15 guests)
Fully guided by local experts
Travel in a luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicle
Water and snacks provided
Lunch stop in Papatowai (food available for purchase)
Hotel drop-off in Invercargill
Age Information
Adult: 15 years +
Children: 4-14 years
Infants: Under 4 years
Cancellations & Refunds
Outside 24 hours before travel: Full refund**
Within 24 hours before travel: No refund
Note: **Refund excludes credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.
Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.*
Itinerary
Depart Dunedin Your adventure begins with a pickup from your central Dunedin accommodation before heading south along the stunning coastal highway. As the city fades into the distance, the scenery transforms into rolling farmland, rugged cliffs, and untouched wilderness. This marks the start of your journey into the heart of the Catlins — one of New Zealand’s most pristine regions.
Nugget Point Lighthouse – Ocean Views & Wildlife Our first stop takes you to the breathtaking Nugget Point Lighthouse, perched dramatically above the ocean. The short walk to the viewpoint offers sweeping coastal panoramas, where you can spot seals basking on the rocks and seabirds gliding over the sea stacks known as “The Nuggets.” It’s one of the South Island’s most iconic and photogenic spots.
Purakaunui Falls – Forest Gem Venture into lush native bush for a gentle stroll to Purakaunui Falls, a multi-tiered waterfall cascading through dense forest. The sound of rushing water and birdsong creates a serene atmosphere, perfect for photography and reflection. As one of the Catlins’ most famous natural attractions, it’s a true highlight of the journey.
Papatowai – Lunch & The Lost Gypsy Caravan Stop for lunch in the tranquil village of Papatowai, surrounded by forest and coastline. Here you’ll find the whimsical Lost Gypsy Caravan, an imaginative gallery filled with handmade kinetic art and quirky creations. It’s a delightful stop that showcases the creative heart of the Catlins.
Curio Bay – Prehistoric Forest & Marine Life Step onto ancient ground at Curio Bay, where a 180-million-year-old fossilised forest lies preserved in stone and visible at low tide. With a bit of luck, you may also glimpse rare yellow-eyed penguins or playful Hector’s dolphins in the surf. If tides allow, we may instead visit Cathedral Caves, where towering sea caverns meet the ocean in an unforgettable scene.
Arrive in Invercargill – Gateway to the South As the day draws to a close, continue through the rolling Southland countryside to Invercargill. Your guide will drop you at your central accommodation, leaving you with lasting memories of wild coastlines, lush forests, and the rugged beauty of the Catlins.
Transfers and Shuttles
Small Group Tours
Nature & Wildlife
Hiking & Walking
Family-friendly Tours
Day Tours
