The Catlins
The Southern Scenic Route through the Catlins is a journey through a forgotten corner of New Zealand. The road traverses ridges and valleys close to the coast and passes through large tracts of native forest.
Views are gained over rocky headlands, sandy bays and bush fringed estuaries. There are many short forest walks to beaches, streams, lakes, waterfalls, caves or blow holes. Penguins, seals, dolphins, forest birds and seabirds are likely to be encountered.
The Catlins Highway history features early Maori settlements, whaling and sawmilling. It has a large area of native forest, diverse wildlife and distinctive geological features.
Along the Catlins Highway there are many short forest walks to beaches, streams, lakes, waterfalls, caves or blow holes. You are likely to encounter penguins, seals, dolphins, forest birds and seabirds.
There is no DOC accommodation along the Catlins Highway but there is a range of other accommodation available.
The distance between Invercargill and Balclutha is 162 km and 22 km of the journey is on unsealed road, also some roads detouring off The Southern Scenic Route are often unsealed.
The Southern Scenic Route between Te Anau and Invercargill has many points of natural and historic interest and varied opportunities for recreation along the way.
Milford Sound/Piopiotahi is in the northwest of Fiordland National Park. Find out more about this breathtaking location, the activities you can enjoy there, tracks and walks, and places to stay.
Find businesses that are DOC-approved to provide activities and services in Catlins Highway.
NZ weather
Follow the Outdoor Safety Code: 1. Plan your trip 2. Tell someone 3. Be aware of the weather 4. Know your limits 5. Take sufficient supplies
Clutha i-SITE Visitor Centre4 Clyde Street Balclutha Phone: +64 3 418 0388 Fax: +64 3 418 1877 balclutha@i-SITE.org
Safety