Catlins

The journey between Dunedin and Invercargill, traveling via the Catlins, is one that should not be rushed. Taking the eastern half of the Southern Scenic Route, the road offers some great scenery and walking opportunities. Nugget Point offers spectacular Southern Ocean views with fur seals and sea lions basking on rocks, while Cannibal Bay, just a few kilometers from the main road, is a great place to walk the secluded beach and look for hooker sea lions. There are countless opportunities for short walks to breathtaking waterfalls, wonderful beaches, and other interesting places that are all well signposted. You should stop for a coffee and home-baked treats at the Lost Gipsy Gallery located near Papatowai. This fantastic cabinet of obscurities should not be missed. Another must-go is Curio Bay which has gained international significance for its petrified forest dating back to the Jurassic period. While you are here, look out for Hector dolphins living in the bay, or if you are here at dawn or dusk, you might even spot yellow-eyed penguins.