Southern Scenic Route Drive

The Southern Scenic Route Drive is an exciting four-day road trip that starts in Dunedin and ends in Te Anau in New Zealand. The journey is about 266 miles and is best experienced during the summer months, when the area is at its most beautiful. Along the route, travelers will enjoy breathtaking landscapes, from rolling hills and lush forests to picturesque lakes and soaring mountains. Highlights include the small town of Papatowai, with its stunning beach, and the bustling city of Invercargill. Although the roads are generally good, some sections are narrow, so drivers should take caution. Despite this, the route offers a very high level of experience, with plenty of opportunities to create lasting memories. This road trip is suitable for all drivers, although it is best experienced with a high budget in order to make the most of the attractions along the way.

Dunedin is a vibrant city located in the Otago region of New Zealand's South Island. The city is the perfect starting point for the Southern Scenic Route Drive, a stunning road trip through some of New Zealand's most beautiful scenery. Dunedin is renowned for its rich history and heritage, and visitors can explore the city's stunning architecture, including the iconic Dunedin Railway Station, one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand. Other popular attractions include the Otago Museum, which showcases the region's natural history, and the Chinese Garden, a tranquil Chinese-style garden with ponds and pavilions. For those traveling by air, Dunedin International Airport (DUD) is located just 9 kilometers from the city center. Car rental is available at the airport, making it easy to begin the Southern Scenic Route Drive. Dunedin is also a great place to be outdoors. The city is surrounded by beautiful beaches and wildlife reserves, and visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from surfing to mountain biking. From its rich culture and history to its stunning outdoor activities, Dunedin is a great place to start the Southern Scenic Route Drive. With its convenient international airport and car rental options, it's easy to explore the city and its surrounds.

Welcome, road-trippers! Join us on a journey from Dunedin, New Zealand to Papatowai, a destination just 84 miles and less than two hours away. Along the way, you will be able to take in the historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. Enjoy the natural beauty of the Otago Peninsula, stretching out into the Pacific Ocean, and take in the stunning views of the Catlins region. Stop by the nearby Nugget Point Lighthouse, one of the oldest in the country, and take a stroll along the beach. You can also find some of the best surfing spots in the area. As you drive along the winding roads of the Catlins, you will be able to spot some of the native wildlife, including sea lions, blue penguins, and dolphins. Don't forget to take a break at the Purakaunui Falls, a beautiful three-tiered waterfall surrounded by lush rainforest. You can also explore the ancient forests of Waipohatu, a protected area with some of the oldest trees in the world. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, come and join us on this amazing road trip from Dunedin to Papatowai!

Are you ready for a scenic road trip from Papatowai to Invercargill? This 67 mi journey will take you less than 2 hours and will provide you with a unique experience. As you travel along the route, you’ll be able to enjoy some of the most picturesque landscapes New Zealand has to offer. From Papatowai, make sure you keep an eye out for The Catlins, an area of lush rainforest and stunning wildlife. As you continue your journey, you’ll also pass through the towns of Tuatapere, Riverton, and Bluff. Take some time to explore these charming towns, and uncover some of their historical sites. As you reach Invercargill, you’ll be greeted with its iconic view of the Waihopai River. Make sure you take some time to explore the city and its many attractions. This is just one of the stages of your journey, so make sure you take in all the sights and sounds that this unique region has to offer. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Are you ready for an amazing road trip from Invercargill to Te Anau, a 115 mi (185 km) journey that will take you less than 3 hours? You will drive through stunning landscapes, with sections of narrow roads where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery. As you drive, make sure to pay attention to the road, as it is one of the most scenic stretches in New Zealand. Along the way, you will stop in some of the most interesting places. In Invercargill, visit the Southland Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the region’s history and culture. Then, head to the Queens Park, a beautiful park with gardens, a lake, and plenty of wildlife. In Te Anau, explore the Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or take a boat ride to the majestic Milford Sound. You can also visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves for a unique experience. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for an amazing journey through some of New Zealand’s most beautiful spots!

Te Anau, located in the South Island of New Zealand, is the perfect ending point for the Southern Scenic Route Drive. This picturesque town lies on the banks of the lake of the same name and offers stunning views of the mountains, forests and waters of the region. The town of Te Anau is home to the famous Te Anau Glowworm Caves, where visitors can see thousands of glowworms in their natural environment. This is a must-see for anyone visiting the area. For those seeking outdoor activities, there are plenty of options, from sailing and kayaking on the lake, to hiking and mountain biking in the Fiordland National Park. Te Anau is also home to some of New Zealand’s most renowned restaurants and cafes, offering some of the freshest and most delicious dishes in the country. There are also plenty of shops and galleries, perfect for picking up souvenirs to remember your trip. For those arriving from overseas, the closest international airport is Queenstown Airport (ZQN), which is a two-hour drive away. From there, the Southern Scenic Route Drive will take you through some of New Zealand’s most beautiful scenery, eventually leading you to Te Anau. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an outdoor adventure, Te Anau is the perfect destination to end your Southern Scenic Route Drive. With its stunning landscape, delicious cuisine, and plenty of activities to choose from, Te Anau truly has something for everyone.

Before you set off

The Southern Scenic Route is a breathtaking journey spanning over four days, covering roughly 266 miles across the diverse landscapes of New Zealand's South Island. This Scenic Drive connects Dunedin to Te Anau, offering a plethora of stunning vistas, including rolling green hills, rugged coastlines, and towering mountains.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Dunedin: The journey begins in this historic city, known for its Scottish heritage, Victorian and Edwardian architecture, and the wildlife-rich Otago Peninsula, where you can spot albatrosses, penguins, and seals.
• The Catlins: An area of astounding natural beauty with dense rainforests, cascading waterfalls like Purakaunui Falls, and a rugged coastline. Key spots include Nugget Point with its iconic lighthouse and sea lions basking on the rocks.
• Invercargill: The southernmost city of New Zealand offers a glimpse into the country's motoring history at Bill Richardson Transport World and is the stepping stone to Stewart Island, a haven for native birdlife and possible sightings of the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis).
• Te Anau: The final destination acts as the gateway to the majestic Fiordland National Park, home to the famous Milford and Doubtful Sounds, and offers opportunities for hiking, such as the renowned Kepler Track, and boat tours to witness the park's stunning fiords and waterfalls.

Best Time to Go:

The Southern Scenic Route is most enchanting during the New Zealand summer months, from December to February, when the weather allows for pleasurable exploration of the outdoors and the landscapes are vibrant and lush. However, spring and autumn also offer unique scenic beauty with fewer crowds.

Potential Risks:

• Certain stretches of the road may be winding or narrow, demanding attentive driving.
• Weather in New Zealand can be unpredictable, and conditions can change rapidly, especially in Fiordland, where rainfall is frequent. Always check the weather forecast and be prepared.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• Budgeting adequately is advised to fully experience the wide range of attractions without compromise.
• The Southern Scenic Route is accessible to drivers of all experience levels, with clear signage and well-maintained roads.
• The drive offers myriad opportunities for unique experiences such as wildlife encounters, stargazing in some of the world's clearest skies, and immersing yourself in Maori culture.

A good choice for:

Embarking on the Southern Scenic Route Drive is an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of New Zealand's South Island. This journey is more than just a Road Trip; it's an invitation to create lasting memories amidst some of the most picturesque landscapes on the planet.