If rugged coastal landscapes teaming with natural beauty are your thing, the stretch of coast between Balclutha and Invercargill known as The Catlins is sure to inspire you. With boatloads of seafaring history, and some of the most stunning natural features of land and sea, a two-hour drive covers a lifetime of things to do. Check out this list of 7 amazing things to do in The Catlins!
1. Grab a Cold One at Catlins Brewery
If you’re ever heading from Dunedin to The Catlins, a suitably refreshing arrival reward could be a few bottles of Catlins Brewery’s tasty craft beer range. Based at Kaka Point, they use all locally sourced ingredients to brew beers and cider that boast a ‘taste of The Catlins’. If you’ve got a minute to spare, you can always take your time and enjoy a brewery tour and a tasting. Of the top things to do in The Catlins, this must be the most refreshing. They’ve got a wide range, so there’s something for everybody, even those who like a little honey in the mix.
2. Nugget Point Lighthouse
One of the country’s oldest lighthouses, the Nugget Point Lighthouse offers historic beauty to this day. The rocks at Nugget Point were so named because they looked like naturally occurring gold, which in a way, they are! The view from the lighthouse is a panorama overlooking the ocean, and the fur seals and Hector’s dolphins that live in it. Even some of the world’s rarest penguins head to this iconic southern lighthouse.
3. Horse Riding
What better way to explore the rolling hills, rugged coast, and native tōtara trees than on horseback. New and experienced riders alike can enjoy touring The Catlins countryside with Catlins Horse Riding, for rides as short as one hour, or as long as six. Usually you have to choose between a farm or a beach ride, but not in The Catlins! As with so many Catlins activities, the chance to see sea lions is ever-present.
4. Watch Sea Lions in Surat Bay
If the sea lions are what draws you to The Catlins, Surat Bay is the spot to hit. Named after the sailing ship “Surat” shipwrecked there on New Years Day in 1874, the beach is now a haven for visitors. These sea lions came back from the verge of extinction over 200 years ago, and now spend their days lazing in the sun. Just be sure to keep a safe 10-20 metre distance, as they are wild animals.
5. Visit Jack’s Blowhole
Most blowholes are true seaside spectacles. Jack’s Blowhole however, is unique in that it appears 200 metres from the shore. The blowhole can be reached after following a one-hour track, and greets you with the sound of the ocean. This is a true natural marvel, and the hike itself offers prime opportunities to enjoy the coastal scenery. Check out the views of crashing waves at Penguin Bay. This sort of one-of-a-kind landscape is why the Jack’s Blowhole Track is one of the top things to do in The Catlins for those who love the outdoors.
6. Check Out Some Local Establishments
If it’s a memorable dining experience you’re after and you’re in the vicinity of Kaka Point, you’ve got to pop into Neux for one of The Catlins restaurants’ best offerings. Their focus is on serving the freshest sustainable local cuisine, and the view is nothing to scoff at. On the other hand, if art is what you crave, Lost Gypsy Gallery and The Catlins Gallery offer some of the finest local art The Catlins has to offer. The best way to understand what makes a region special is to see what kind of art they create!
7. See the Region’s Beautiful Waterfalls
For those who like chasing waterfalls, The Catlins have several stunning falls to discover. After a 30-minute walk down the mossy Matai Track, you’ll arrive at a stream which becomes a 10-meter tall waterfall. The Matai Falls Track is a two-for-one. You can also check out Horseshoe Falls which is particularly incredible after lots of rainfall. Another 30-minute walk is the McLean Falls Walk. McLean Falls is The Catlins’ tallest falls, towering at 22 meters high. These falls are truly breathtaking examples of why The Catlins is such a popular destination for hikers.
