 |
|
|
|
Introduction to the Southern Scenic Route
 Take the coastal journey along the Southern Scenic Route and unlock secrets found only in the south of the South Island, New Zealand.
This journey between Queenstown and Dunedin is approximately 610 kilometres
(km) of natural and cultural attractions laid out one after the other – wildlife viewing,
short walks, mountain-biking, fishing, hunting, boating, camping, tramping and caving – making it an ideal drive for those with time to explore.
The route is well signposted, guiding visitors from Queenstown to Dunedin (or vice versa), via sealed, mostly coastal, highways.
Queenstown > Te Anau / Fiordland > Western Southland > Invercargill > The Catlins > Balclutha > Dunedin
Alternative inland roads provide a more direct path between the main centres. However, the Southern Scenic Route (SSR) is a journey that allows access to deserted beaches, lush rainforest,
pristine lakes and stunning mountain vistas.
Discover the majestic beauty of the jagged Fiordland mountains and the rugged southern coast. Explore New Zealand native bush growing right to the water's edge or stroll along white sandy beaches and enjoy peace and solitude. Meander through the colourful coastal fishing villages and seaside settlements. Stay overnight along the way, meet local people and find out what we mean by 'southern hospitality'. Uncover the ancient secrets of this land which has been occupied by Maori for over 1000 years and observe the natural features of the environment that led Ngai Tahu, as the people of the land, down the same pathways you will travel.
This scenic travelling route guides you through some of the most spectacular coastal scenery and rural settings in New Zealand. You will be enthralled by the contrasting beauty of unique landscapes, from rolling green pastures and native New Zealand forest, to the wild southern coastline and looming mountains.
The Southern Scenic Route includes the town of Te Anau with Milford Sound nearby. Known to the Ngai Tahu as Poipoitahi, Milford Sound was a sacred ground where the patupaiarehe (the fairy people) lived. Visitors are always captivated by the splendour of Mitre Peak and the beauty of the remote fiords.
  
Whilst travelling south, take the time to venture off the main highway and discover Southland's hidden lakes, on the southern tip of Te Wahi Pounamu, the South West New Zealand World Heritage Area.
The wild southern coast captures the imagination with breathtaking vistas of the ocean. Explore the settlements scattered throughout this area. Riverton is a delightful historic fishing town and holiday spot. Fossick for shells and stones on the beach or take a leisurely swim in this safe cove. Tuatapere is located on the banks of the majestic Waiau River, with a vast selection of things to see and do; beaches, lakes, historic sites, bush walks and a World Heritage area.
Invercargill is Southland's only city. From here, you can either take a short journey by air across Foveaux Straight to Stewart Island or depart from Bluff(27 Kms from Invercargill) on the regular charter boat service. The city of Invercargill offers a display of fine Victorian architecture and has all the amenities and services that any traveller may require. A stay here enables you to meet the local residents and discover the warmth of 'southern hospitality'.
Leaving Invercargill you travel through some of the most lush and fertile farmland in New Zealand before entering the Catlins. The Catlins is an area where native forest meets the waters edge; a place of hidden waterfalls and river valleys; of rocky coastal bays, inlets and estuaries where the great Pacific Ocean bites into the land. Of international geological significance is Curio Bay's 160 million-year-old fossilised forest, best viewed at low tide. The Catlins is home to an abundance of wildlife and Nugget Point (Tokata) is a stunning and accessible place for viewing seals and penguins.
Further travel through the Catlins brings your to the rich, green, rolling hills of South Otago, an area steeped in history. Early colonial architecture is a feature of many of the buildings in this area. Balclutha services and surrounding farming communities and provides a convenient break or stopover for the traveller.
Lake Waihola marks the turning point of travel toward the coast and the charming seaside villages of Taieri Mouth and Brighton. Take time to enjoy the many recreational activities in this area. Stroll along the deserted beaches with soft white sand that stretches for miles. Clamber over the rocky outcrops and watch the crashing waves.
Depending on your direction of travel, Dunedin marks the beginning or the conclusion of your tour of the Southern Scenic Route. Dunedin is a bustling university city, celebrated for its architecture, museums, galleries, and theatres. The Octagon is the showpiece and centre of this vibrant city. Enjoy the streetlife while sipping coffee at an outdoor cafe or pick a spot in the sun under the statue of Robbie Burns. Dunedin offers a blend of natural history, attractions, culture, recreation and entertainment that, in combination with all the attractions along the Southern Scenic Route, will make your tour a truly memorable experience.
 
|
 |
|
|
