Discover Fiordland & the Vibrant Murihiku Southland Region.
Te Rua-o-te-moko Fiordland and the wider Murihiku Southland region, where natural wonders and adventure await around every corner. From the bustling city of Invercargill to the tranquil shores of Te Anau and Manapouri, this corner of New Zealand offers a diverse array of experiences, from the cosy quaintness to breathtaking rugged wilderness.
Invercargill: Your Gateway to Murihiku
Waihopai Invercargill is more than just a city; it's a bustling transport hub connecting Murihiku to the world beyond. Air New Zealand operates direct flights from Auckland to our main city five days a week, with the Airbus A320 completing the journey in just 1 hour and 55 minutes. Arriving in Invercargill is stress-free, with convenient access to rental cars and the city centre just a 5-minute drive away. The city centre has seen a rejuvenation in recent years, boasting numerous new shopping and dining venues. The Langlands Hotel, featuring its iconic 360 Bar, serves as the centerpiece of the city's revitalization. Invercargill is an ideal starting point for exploring the wider region, offering day trips to nearby treasures like the Catlins, Rakiura (Stewart Island), and Gore.
Day trips from Waihopai Invercargill
Invercargill is an ideal starting point for exploring the wider region, offering day trips to nearby treasures like the Catlins, Rakiura Stewart Island, and Gore.
Explore the rugged coastal scenery of the Catlins, where pristine beaches, lush forests, and breathtaking waterfalls await. Encounter native wildlife, including penguins and seals, in their natural habitat.
For a taste of island life, venture to Rakiura Stewart Island, a paradise known for its untouched wilderness and Maori heritage. Immerse yourself in the island's tranquility as you hike through pristine forests, kayak along secluded bays, or simply relax and enjoy the slow pace of island living.
Back on the mainland, discover Gore, a charming town nestled amidst rolling hills and fertile farmland. Experience the region's rich agricultural heritage, explore local museums, or simply unwind and savour the town's welcoming atmosphere.
Te Rua-o-te-Moko Fiordland
2 hours northwest of Invercargill, located on the shores of picturesque Lakes Te Anau and Manapouri, are the towns of Te Anau and Manapouri, both nestled on the edge of Fiordland National Park. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its dramatic fjords, towering mountains, and pristine wilderness. While Piopiotahi Milford Sound often steals the spotlight, the region offers a wealth of experiences that encourage visitors to stay longer and delve deeper into Murihiku's treasures.
Basing yourself Te Anau and Manapouri, the possibilities for exploration are endless. By extending your stay, you can immerse yourself in the region's natural beauty and diverse activities. Discover hidden gems like Patea Doubtful Sound, a secluded fiord accessible via boat from Manapouri, offering a quieter alternative to the more famous Milford Sound.
Extend your stay in Te Anau and unlock a world of adventure. Embark on multi-day hiking expeditions along the iconic Milford or Kepler Tracks, where every step unveils breathtaking vistas and encounters with native flora and fauna. Alternatively, check out one of the 23-days walk options in the region. Leave the big pack behind, explore the wildness paths but return to comfortable accommodation and warm showers!
Both Lake Manapouri and Te Anau offer the opportunity to access the wilderness within minutes. Whether it’s a scenic cruise or track connection with Manapouri Water Taxi, a jet boat spin with Fiordland Jet or a vintage voyage with Fiordland Historic Cruises, you’ll find yourself in remote locations within a very short time. Lake Te Anau is also home to the mystical glowworm caves, a mesmerizing underground wonderland illuminated by thousands of tiny lights.
The darkest skies and the brightest stars
Murihiku Southland is known for amazing views with its seemingly endless daytime sky that turns into a stargazer's paradise by night. From Te Rua-o-te-Moko Fiordland in the west to Rakiura Stewart Island in the south, our region offers one of the darkest locations in the world to view the night sky - as the centre of the galaxy passes almost directly over your head.
You might even get a front-row seat for the greatest natural light show on Earth, as the Aurora Australis/Southern Lights throws out spectacular sheets of purple, green, yellow, and blue light that dance silently across the night sky in a symphony of colour.
Time to visit Murihiku
Come explore these untamed landscapes, and welcoming communities. Through Invercargill's expanding transport network and Te Anau's role as a base for Fiordland exploration, we invite you to embark on a journey that transcends expectations, revealing the soul of this remarkable region. Plan your journey to Murihiku today and uncover a world of unforgettable experiences. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, scenic road trips, or simply moments of tranquility amidst stunning landscapes, Fiordland and Southland promise a journey unlike any other.
Let Murihiku capture your heart and soul as you discover the magic of New Zealand's South Island.