Southland
Countless getaways. One unforgettable region.
Southland is the most southerly and westerly region of
New Zealand and boasts some of the most distinctive landscapes
in the country, ranging from high alpine mountains and
glaciers to intensively farmed lush grasslands on rolling
plains. Farming, forestry and horticulture form the region's
economic base, but Southland also has a diversity of manufacturing
for export.
It is one of the fastest growing tourist regions in New
Zealand due to its unspoilt nature and wide recognition
of it being a place to restore the soul.
Southland's people reflect their heritage through their
energy, expertise and warmth of heart.
This is the gateway to
Southland, where it's time.
It’s one of those rare getaways where you truly
do get away from it all. No traffic jams. No queues. No
worries. New Zealand’s southernmost province, Southland
spans the breadth of the South Island. Much of its uniqueness
and intrigue lies in the ever-changing backdrops - vistas
so different, it’s difficult to imagine you’re
in the same country, let alone the same province.
Within a day’s travel, you’ll experience everything
from towering rainforests, alpine tussocks, rolling fertile
farmlands and golden beaches stretching as far as the
eye can see. It’s like a dozen destinations rolled
into one.
With its wide open spaces, and a roomy ratio of just
one person to every 30 hectares of land, there’s
plenty of scope for serenity and solitude.
This region’s celebrated for its “off the
beaten track” activities and attractions, yet Southland
is easily accessible and offers quality amenities and
services, including world-class fare and an inviting range
of accommodation.
Southland’s spectacular scenery, unique wildlife
and rich heritage draws trampers, sightseers, adventurers,
naturalists and culture buffs alike … or those simply
looking for an idyllic, peaceful retreat a world away
from the rigours of everyday life.
What to see and do in Southland.
Whatever you do - be warned, you're in for the time of
your life.
Southland ’s scenic diversity is matched by the
many world-class attractions and activities operating
in harmony with the province’s unique environment.
The province is home to two national parks - New Zealand’s
newest, Rakiura, covering most of Stewart Island and the
country’s largest, Fiordland, which has World Heritage
status.
A haven to countless species of native wildlife, Southland
is the place to be truly at one with nature. Trampers
beat a track to Southland’s many tracks, while the
rivers are a drawcard for international anglers.
Southland’s architecture, museums and heritage
trails are a must for visitors with a love of history.
Most cultural tastes are catered for – music, food
and fashion festivals, indoor and outdoor theatrical productions,
art galleries and sporting clashes are just the beginning.
What does Southland offer?
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Stewart
Island - New Zealand's newest National Park, Rakiura
National Park |
| • |
Opportunity
to view New Zealand's native kiwi in the wild |
| • |
Accessibility
to view wildlife up close |
• |
Dolphins, kiwis, sealions,
seals, bird life - all in their natural environment |
• |
Long stretches of sandy
beaches and secluded coastal coves |
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Fishing - arguably the
best brown trout fishing rivers |
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Delicious seafood -
fresh blude cod, Stewart Island Salmon, mussels
and Bluff Oysters |
• |
Unique heritage attractions
- such as a museum celebrating illicit whisky
brewing and the Dr John Money art collection at
the Eastern Southland Art Gallery |
• |
Off the beaten track
atmosphere, yet in close proximity to Queenstown
and ski fields, Fiordland's Mildford & Doubtful
Sounds, Dunedin and Coastal Otago |
• |
Southern Scenic Route
- stunning scenery, wildlife, walks, beaches,
waterfalls and native bush |
• |
New Zealand's newest
walking track - the Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track
in Western Southland |
• |
Southland's vast networks
of open roads - ideal for self-drive holidays |
• |
Superb calendar of
events - sporting, cultural, arts & heritage
Not forgetting the warmth & hospitality of
Southlanders! |
Visit
the Venture Southland website
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