An untouched wonder - The Catlins

Pūrākaunui Falls. Above photo credit: Liz Carlson

A real treat awaits at this South Island hidden treasure – the Catlins. This untouched vista is a truly remarkable region, where lush rainforest spills onto brilliant beaches. Picture a triple tiered cascading waterfall, an array of wildlife, stunning coastal views and wonderfully green wilderness – just to name a few incredible sights you’ll get to see! 

Starting with the seascape, it is quite unlike any other east coastal region in the South Island. Relatively rugged in comparison, cliffs rise up to 200 metres, with reefs, blowholes, caves and sandy beaches all below.   

The stunning surrounds houses a vast array of wildlife throughout the year – elephant seals over summer, a variety of seabirds all year round, Hector’s dolphins frolicking in the waves, plus the rare, yellow-eyed penguin who are best viewed late in the afternoon. 

Tautuka Bay. Photo credit: Great South

Pay a visit to Curioscape, located on picturesque Curio Bay. It’s a world-class interactive centre especially designed to share the unique stories of the amazing Catlin Region on the edge of time. 

Curio Bay. Photo credit: Great South

The most photographed waterfalls in New Zealand await at Pūrākaunui Falls, for those seeking a fantastic photo opportunity. There’s a reason this waterfall has featured on New Zealand postage stamps. Surrounded by native forest and cascading 20 metres over 3 tiers – it is a truly remarkable sight. The sound of rushing water and native birds adds to the tranquility of the scene and will leave a lasting impression.

Pūrākaunui Falls. Photo credit: Liz Carlson

A visit to this stunning region is exclusive to the 14 Day Best of the South Island tour.

*Airfares and taxes are only included on tours that depart from Australia.