The Catlins is a road-trippers dream, with winding roads weaving together a rolling symphony of picture-perfect landscapes, blue sea waters bordered by towering cliffs, and stretches of golden-sand beaches and bays. As you stare out at the Hector’s dolphins leaping from the water and seals lazing on the beaches, feel the wind and salt mist on your face. Wander through forests and listen to the song of New Zealand’s native birds while the waterfalls swirl. Welcome to the Catlins.

LOOMING LIGHTHOUSES

The rough natural beauty of the Catlins, with all its captivating features, jagged and windswept coasts, makes it the perfect destination for towering lighthouses such as Waipapa Point and Nugget Point Lighthouses. Sea lions may be seen tucked in the long grasses for protection as you wander around New Zealand maritime historic sites. Make sure you bring your camera to capture the seabirds circling the cliff sides and plunging into the seas that posed a threat to ships all those centuries ago.

WILD WATERFALLS

Watch the water pour over waterfalls in the Catlins with the early morning light shining through the rainforest. The beauty of flowing water is enhanced by the dark stone and the surrounding lush forest. The most well-known is Pūrākaunui Falls, a beautiful waterfall encased by greenery that cascades 20 metres. McLean Falls, the region’s tallest falls, is only a 40-minute return walk. Last but not least, you can’t miss the ironically named Niagara Falls to tick off the bucket list.

RARE WILDLIFE

Listen to native birdsong calls in the early morning dawn. Scan the waters of Curio Bay for the elusive Hector’s dolphins and rejoice as they leap from the ocean. Visit the petrified forest in the evening to discover the 160-million-year-old remains of a Jurassic-era forest and see yellow-eyed penguins emerge from the water after a day of fishing. Fur seals, elephant seals, and sea lions may all be seen lying on the rocks below you, mimicking stranded driftwood.

HISTORIC CATLINS

The scenic beauty and rich history of the area unfold along the Catlins Heritage Trail, enticing you to stop, gaze, and learn something new. The backbone of the Catlins economy during the 1800s was whaling, sealing, and forestry, which has resulted in historic buildings dotted along the coast for travellers to explore and enjoy. The old buildings have been lovingly refurbished by proud locals to house informative museums, quirky accommodation, and cafés filled with delicious homemade locally sourced food.

CURIOUS SPOTS

Discover the quirky side of the Catlins, all of its hidden gems and curious spots. Visit the Lost Gypsy Gallery in Papatowai to marvel at the myriad of odd and peculiar contraptions while sipping an energising barista-made coffee in the Little Rocket caravan. The main gallery is fashioned from recycled bits and bobs and is housed in a converted 1951 Leyland Comet house bus, while an adults-only gallery beckons up the path with a carnival of even more outrageous sculptures.

WONDER OF WALKS

There are plenty of wonderful walking tracks in the Catlins that can be enjoyed by both the hiking fanatics and casual strollers, which are easily accessible and allow you to explore the region’s rich natural history. These walks take you through native forests, lakes, rivers, sandy beaches, and magnificent caves, with some even including picnic sites or campers, allowing you to take as much time as you need to explore this stunning corner of New Zealand.

THE CAPTIVATING CATLINS