Southland Hiking

Lace up those hiking boots and pack up some water. Whatever you do, don't forget your camera. You'll want photographic evidence of all of your amazing outdoor adventure stories from Southland.

Whether you're after a three-day epic trek through remote wilderness or a 20-minute amble along a pretty path to an even prettier waterfall, Southland has something up its sleeve for you. This is a big, wild and rugged landscape, with more trails, paths and treks than you could ever complete in a lifetime, let alone a holiday.

If you're a beginner but want the challenge of one of the bigger hikes, join a tour. You can just soak up the staggering landscape, watch wildlife and snap photos. If you're a regular Crocodile Dundee, grab a map and your sense of adventure and we'll see you at the finish line.

Image: Venture Southland

Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track

  • Join one of the local tours to tackle the epic and oh-so-very-rewarding three-day hike across some of New Zealand's wildest scenery on the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track.
  • Trek through Fiordland National Park, where the ancient forests, sacred Māori lands and uninhabited coastlines are as magical as they sound.
  • Ditch the backpack and let it be flown up the mountain in a helicopter. Or ditch the hiking boots and be flown up yourself. Very James Bond.

Image: Venture Southland

The Catlins

  • There are few things more rewarding than a waterfall at the end of a hike. The Catlins has several to explore, with hiking paths to suit beginners and intermediate hikers.
  • Embark on the The Catlins River-Wisp Loop Track for a hike spread over one or two days. There are shorter, more bite-sized sections too. Forests, waterfalls and suspension bridges are in store.
  • The Māori describe the lush wetlands near Lake Wilkie as 'Tapu', which means sacred spot. Find out why as you hike the magical Tautuku Estuary Boardwalk.

Image: Venture Southland

Rakiura Track on Stewart Island

  • Epic. Peaceful. Unforgettable. Just a few of the adjectives used to describe the legendary three-day hike across Stewart Island.
  • Sleep in huts to the sound of owl hoots, cross rivers on wobbly bridges and make angels in the untouched sand on paradise-like beaches.
  • Keep a close eye and ear out for birds. The island is home to many bird species including the kiwi. After all, no trip to New Zealand would be complete without spotting one.

Created in partnership with Venture Southland