The Catlins Day Tour

Oct-Mar

South Island

Catch-a-Bus South

from

NZ$329

per adult

Book Now

Panoramic coastal view of Curio Bay in the Catlins region of Southland, New Zealand, with rugged cliffs, native vegetation and waves crashing on the shore

Experiences

Nature & Wildlife

Family-friendly Tours

Day Tours

South Island

Start: Invercargill

Duration: 1 day

Travel Time: 10 hours

Details

Discover the Wild South on a Catlins Day Tour

The Catlins Day Tour follows the breathtaking Southern Scenic Route from Invercargill into one of New Zealand’s most untouched regions. With stops like Waipapa Point, Curio Bay, and the dramatic cliffs of Nugget Point Lighthouse, this journey is packed with scenic gems and fascinating local stories. From lush rainforest walks to rugged coastal lookouts, it’s a day filled with variety and visual wonder.

You’ll also have the chance to visit places like Slope Point, the southernmost tip of the South Island, and marvel at waterfalls such as McLean Falls and Purakanui Falls. Some locations, like Cathedral Caves and Roaring Bay, are tide-dependent, so your itinerary may adjust based on the day’s conditions. The goal is simple—maximise your experience while staying flexible and relaxed.

Person standing on windswept Curio Bay headland in the Catlins, Southland, under bright sunlight.

Historic Waipapa Point Lighthouse standing tall on the rugged Catlins coastline in Southland.

Cathedral Caves in The Catlins, Southland New Zealand

Purakaunui Falls in The Catlins, Southland New Zealand

Matai Falls in The Catlins, Southland New Zealand

Tunnel Hill walkway in The Catlins, Southland New Zealand

Tahakopa Bay beach in The Catlins, Southland New Zealand

Visitors enjoying the view from Purakaunui Falls viewing platform in The Catlins, Southland, New Zealand

Scenic coastal landscape at Purakaunui Bay in The Catlins, Southland, New Zealand

Photographer capturing yellow-eyed penguins (hoiho) on the rocky coastline at Curio Bay in the Catlins, Southland, New Zealand

Aerial view of Nugget Point Lighthouse and rocky islets in The Catlins, Southland, New Zealand

Sunset over the Fortrose Cliffs in Southland, New Zealand

Curio Bay beach with turquoise waters in The Catlins, Southland, New Zealand

Person in red jacket standing on rocky shore as powerful wave crashes at Curio Bay on the Southland coast in the Catlins, New Zealand

Person in red jacket raising arms as a massive wave crashes onto the rocky shoreline at Curio Bay in the Catlins, Southland, New Zealand

Wildlife Encounters and Scenic Highlights

The Catlins is known for its diverse wildlife, and with a bit of luck, you might spot rare Yellow-eyed Penguins at Curio Bay or Roaring Bay. The landscapes are just as impressive, ranging from the towering Florence Hill Lookout to hidden gems like Tunnel Hill. Your guide will also suggest the best self-guided spots to explore during scheduled driver breaks.

Food stops are included, though meals are at your own cost—so packing a few snacks is a good idea for this full-day adventure. If your plans include continuing to Dunedin, this can be arranged in advance for an extra fee. Whether it’s wildlife, waterfalls, or windswept shores, the Catlins Day Tour is a must for nature lovers heading off the beaten track.

Cancellation & Refund

Outside 48 hours before travel: Full refund less NZ$10 admin fee per person**
Within 48 hours before travel: No refund

Note: **Refunds exclude credit card or booking fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

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