The Catlins
Planning a trip to the South Island? The Catlins should be on your itinerary!
This wild, windswept corner of New Zealand is packed with rugged beauty, epic wildlife encounters and landscapes that feel like they’ve been left untouched for centuries. There is so much wildlife here and you can see them in the wild without tours! You'll see sea lions, seals, penguins and albatross.
It’s a place where you can wander along wild beaches, hike to beautiful waterfalls, watch the most beautiful sunrises from the beach and feel like you’ve stumbled into a secret world. The Catlins is raw, remote and unforgettable.
This wild, windswept corner of New Zealand is packed with rugged beauty, epic wildlife encounters and landscapes that feel like they’ve been left untouched for centuries. There is so much wildlife here and you can see them in the wild without tours! You'll see sea lions, seals, penguins and albatross.
It’s a place where you can wander along wild beaches, hike to beautiful waterfalls, watch the most beautiful sunrises from the beach and feel like you’ve stumbled into a secret world. The Catlins is raw, remote and unforgettable.
If you see “blog coming soon,” don’t worry—it won’t be for much longer! We’re working hard behind the scenes to finish everything in the next few weeks. We’re also adding heaps more guides, updating older blogs, and making it SO much easier for you to plan your trip around New Zealand!
One of the most iconic waterfalls in the Catlins—and for good reason. Purakaunui Falls is an easy walk and seriously stunning.
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This breathtaking waterfall is in the Catlins is one of the most powerful waterfalls we have seen on our travels!
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Along the wild coast of Catlins is a beautiful beach with white sand, huge cliffs and a colony of sea lions to watch in the wild.
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BEST SPOTS FOR SUNRISE AND SUNSET IN THE CATLINS
From wild beaches to mirror lakes, these are the best places in the Catlins to watch the sun rise and set.
Blog coming soon! |
Set out at Nugget Point, in the wild and untamed Catlins, is one of New Zealand's most photographed spots - the Tokata Lighthouse. |
THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE CATLINS (2025)
Planning a trip to the Catlins? This guide covers all the must-see spots, hidden gems and everything in between. |
JACK'S BLOWHOLE TRACK
A short but rugged walk the leads to the dramatic coastal chasm of Jack’s Blowhole — a 55-metre-deep surprise hidden inland.
Blog coming soon! |
LAKE WILKIE
Lake Wilkie turns into a mirror on a windless day and is a super peaceful place tucked into lush Catlins rainforest.
Blog coming soon! |
MATAI FALLS & HORSESHOE FALLS
Tucked away in the Catlins, Matai Falls and Horseshoe Falls are two stunning waterfalls just a short walk through native forest.
Blog coming soon! |
JACKS BAY
A quiet little bay tucked away on the Catlins coast—perfect for sunrise or sunset, spotting sea lions, and maybe even a penguin.
Blog coming soon! 
TUNNEL HILL WALK
Discover a unique track where history meets nature. This 15-minute return walk takes you thorough NZ’s southernmost railway tunnel. Blog coming soon! |
PURAKAUNUI BAY
Come for the beach, stay for the views—Purakaunui Bay is remote, rugged, and absolutely worth the drive.
Blog coming soon! 
9 WALKS TO DO IN THE CATLINS
From rainforest tracks to coastal lookouts, here are 9 Catlins walks that show off the Catlins at its wild and wonderful best.
Blog coming soon! |
TAUTUKU ESTUARY WALK
If you’re into nature and peace, the Tautuku Estuary Walk ticks all the boxes—great for a quiet stroll and a bit of birdwatching.
Blog coming soon! 
WHERE TO SEE WILDLIFE IN THE CATLINS
From rare penguins to sea lions lounging on the beach—here’s where to spot wildlife in the Catlins.
Blog coming soon! |
TAUTUKU BAY
A peaceful slice of the Catlins coast—Tautuku Bay is all about sea caves, scattered wildlife, and that quiet, wild beauty. Blog coming soon! |
OWAKA MUSEUM
Step back in time at the Owaka Museum. Dive into the rich history of the Catlins region, from early settlers to ancient Maori artifacts. Blog coming soon! |
THINGS TO DO IN OWAKA: TOP SPOTS TO VISIT IN AND AROUND THE VILLAGE
Nestled in the heart of the Catlins, Owaka is a charming little village full of character. It’s the perfect stop on your Catlins adventure.
Blog coming soon! |
Curio Bay is a must-visit on the Catlins coast, where you can explore a 180 million year old petrified forest and spot amazing wildlife. |
THINGS TO DO IN THE CATLINS WITH KIDS: BEST FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES
From wildlife encounters to easy nature walks and beautiful beaches, here are the best things to do in the Catlins with kids.
Blog coming soon! |
4 BREATHTAKING WATERFALLS YOU HAVE TO SEE IN THE CATLINS
Home to some of NZ’s best waterfalls, the Catlins is where lush forest meets epic cascades — here are 4 you’ve got to see.
Blog coming soon! |
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