Southland

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.

Diese weitläufige grüne Oase im Herzen der Stadt ist eine Attraktion für sich, mit wunderschön angelegten Gärten, einem Aviarium und dem Southland Museum.

Die südlichste Stadt der Südinsel, bekannt für ihre berühmten Austern und als Ausgangspunkt für Stewart Island, bietet eine raue Küstenlandschaft und maritimen Charme.

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 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.