Die südlichste Stadt der Südinsel, bekannt für ihre berühmten Austern und als Ausgangspunkt für Stewart Island, bietet eine raue Küstenlandschaft und maritimen Charme.
Sehenswürdigkeiten
Discover the most important sights and attractions
Flox Mural - South Sea Spray
The Flox Mural – South Sea Spray in Bluff is an impressive artwork by renowned New Zealand artist Hayley King, better known as Flox. Her characteristic stencil art, which often depicts native flora and fauna, is here vibrantly interpreted within Bluff's maritime environment. You'll discover detailed portrayals of seabirds and marine life, reflecting the region's deep connection to the ocean. The mural is a cultural highlight and a tribute to Southern New Zealand's unique nature. Our Tip: Visit the artwork in the morning when the light is optimal to fully capture the vibrant colors and fine details of the stencil art. For a successful photo, position yourself to capture the entire work and a part of the surrounding harbour atmosphere.
The Sunset Lookout in Bluff offers you a stunning perspective of Foveaux Strait and the striking silhouette of Stewart Island (Rakiura). Bluff, as the southernmost point of New Zealand's South Island, is historically significant for its oyster fishing and serves as a vital departure point for ferry connections to Stewart Island. From this viewpoint, you can survey the rugged beauty of the coastal landscape and the vastness of the Southern Pacific. Its proximity to the famous Stirling Point, with its iconic signpost showing distances to cities worldwide, underscores the geographical significance of the location. Our Tip: To experience the full splendor of the sunset over the sea, plan your visit in the late afternoon. The atmospheric lighting and play of colors in the sky are often spectacular. As the lookout can be exposed, it's advisable to always carry wind and weatherproof clothing.
Bluff, the southernmost town on New Zealand's South Island, is more than just a ferry port to Stewart Island; it's a place rich in maritime history. Here you'll find the famous Stirling Point, which marks the end of State Highway 1 and displays the distances to cities worldwide with its iconic signpost. This point also offers expansive views over Foveaux Strait and the rugged coastal landscape. Bluff is world-renowned for its exquisite oysters, which thrive here in the cold waters. The oyster season, typically from March to August, is the best time to taste this local delicacy fresh. Our Tip: Visit Stirling Point early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility and take undisturbed photos of the signpost. A stroll along the coast reveals the town's significance for fishing and maritime trade.
Stirling Point marks the southernmost point of New Zealand's South Island and is an iconic landmark in Bluff. Here, you'll find the famous signpost displaying distances to major cities worldwide, including the Equator and the South Pole. This point is also the official start or end of State Highway 1, which stretches the entire length of New Zealand. From Stirling Point, you can enjoy expansive views over Foveaux Strait to Stewart Island (Rakiura), especially on clear days. The rugged coastal landscape and often stormy seas give the location a special, remote atmosphere. A short stroll along the coast provides additional viewpoints and the opportunity to observe the maritime flora and fauna. Our tip: Visit Stirling Point in the early morning or late afternoon to capture the best light for photos and avoid the largest tourist crowds. Also, plan a visit to the nearby Bluff Maritime Museum to learn more about the local history and the oyster fishery.
The Greenpoint Domain in Bluff is a major public green space, offering you expansive views over Foveaux Strait and Stewart Island. It's a vital recreational area for the local community and visitors. Here, you'll discover well-maintained walking trails winding through characteristic native bush. Historically, this elevated point played a role as a strategic lookout for shipping and and possibly offered early settlers a sheltered spot. Today, you can observe the native birdlife here and breathe in the fresh sea air. Our Tip: Visit the Domain in the late afternoon to experience the sunset over Foveaux Strait, which bathes the landscape in warm light. For undisturbed photos of the coastline and islands, early mornings are perfect, as visitors are fewer and the light is especially soft.
These places are nearby — perfect for additional days or a day trip.
Invercargill Central
Invercargill Central, New Zealand's southernmost major city, captivates with its historic architecture along wide boulevards like Dee Street. Here you'll discover a fascinating mix of Victorian and Edwardian buildings. The expansive Queens Park, with its gardens, aviary, and animal park, offers a green oasis in the city centre. The city is closely linked to the legend of motorcyclist Burt Munro; his story can be experienced at the Transport World Museum. As an ideal starting point for exploring the Catlins or Stewart Island, Invercargill offers unique nature experiences. Visit the city ideally in spring or autumn to enjoy mild weather and fewer crowds. Be sure to try the world-famous Bluff Oysters when they are seasonally available.
Southland
Willkommen in Southland, einem charmanten und widerstandsfähigen Tor zu Neuseelands wildem Süden. Lass dich von der freundlichen Atmosphäre dieser Stadt und ihrer einzigartigen Lage verzaubern, die den perfekten Ausgangspunkt für Erkundungen der unberührten Landschaften und des reichen kulturellen Erbes der Region bildet.
Queens Park
Diese weitläufige grüne Oase im Herzen der Stadt ist eine Attraktion für sich, mit wunderschön angelegten Gärten, einem Aviarium und dem Southland Museum.
Manapouri
Manapouri, picturesquely situated on the shores of the lake of the same name, serves as a tranquil base for exploring Fiordland National Park. The small town is primarily known as the main access point for tours to the remote Doubtful Sound. The deep blue Lake Manapouri itself, fringed by forested islands and mountains, offers opportunities for boating and fishing. Another highlight is the Manapouri Hydroelectric Power Station, which, with its underground caverns, represents an impressive feat of engineering and can be visited. From here, sections of the famous Kepler Track are also accessible, offering hikes through alpine landscapes. It is advisable to book tours to Doubtful Sound in advance, especially during peak season. For a more relaxed atmosphere, the months outside the main travel season are ideal.
Te Anau
Te Anau serves as the gateway to the impressive Fiordland National Park on New Zealand's South Island. The town is situated directly on the lake of the same name, the country's second largest, and is a central base for exploring the surrounding wilderness. Here you'll find the Te Anau Glowworm Caves, an impressive cave system accessible only by boat, offering a unique light show. As a base for hikes on the Kepler Track or a starting point for trips to Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, Te Anau provides essential infrastructure. The region has always been characterized by its pristine nature, conveying a sense of New Zealand's original landscape. For planning tours and hikes, the Department of Conservation (DOC) Visitor Centre is an indispensable point of contact, where you can get up-to-date information. To avoid the largest crowds, a visit during the shoulder months of spring or autumn is recommended, when the weather is often still mild.
