The Catlins
New Zealand · Otago
Description
The Catlins are a rugged, sparsely populated coastal region between Dunedin and Invercargill on New Zealand’s South Island. Renowned for their unspoiled beaches, lush temperate rainforests, scenic waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, the Catlins showcase some of the country's most pristine natural landscapes. Highlights include the iconic Nugget Point Lighthouse with its dramatic offshore rock formations, the picturesque Purakaunui Falls, and Curio Bay, home to a 160-million-year-old petrified forest. With a little luck, visitors may spot yellow-eyed penguins, little penguins, New Zealand sea lions, fur seals, and a variety of seabirds in their natural habitat. The Catlins are widely regarded as one of New Zealand’s last great wilderness regions, offering spectacular scenery and unforgettable nature experiences far from the main tourist routes.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 to 3 days (optimal 2 days)
Travel season
Best time to visit: December – January
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Nugget Point Lighthouse
- Curio Bay Petrified Forest
- Yellow-eyed penguins
- Purakaunui Falls
- Cathedral Caves (late October - May)
- McLean Falls
- Jack's Blowhole
- Slope Point
- Waipapa Point Lighthouse
- Porpoise Bay
- Hector's dolphins (November - February)
- Cannibal Bay
- New Zealand sea lions
- Florence Hill Lookout
- Lake Wilkie
- Matai Falls and Horseshoe Falls
- Tautuku Bay
- Catlins River Walk
- Southern Scenic Route