10 Best Stops from Dunedin to Invercargill via the Catlins

Explore incredible coastal scenery, great walks, and rare wildlife as you make your way through the rugged Catlins. Book yourself a rental car from RaD Car Hire Dunedin and drop it off at the Invercargill branch for the easiest way to get around on your New Zealand road trip.

How Long is the Drive Between Dunedin and Invercargill Along the Southern Scenic Route? 

This beautiful route starts on State Highway 1 and follows the coastline for a total driving distance of 242 km (approximately 150 miles, or 3 hr 20 min). Of course, you don’t want to spend the whole time just driving - give yourself a day (or three) to explore the picturesque coastal region.

Is Invercargill Worth Visiting?

If you’re already in Dunedin, it’s well worth taking a trip to New Zealand’s most southern city. Invercargill offers no end of awesome activities and attractions - plus, it’s a great stopping point between Dunedin and Queenstown or the Milford Sound. Check out our guide of things to do in Invercargill for more info.

Dunedin to Invercargill: Your Road Trip Itinerary 

Ready to explore the South Island’s Catlins region? Here are all the best stops you should check out:

1. Dunedin 

Dunedin is known for its historic Victorian architecture, Scottish and Māori heritage, and large student population. Here, you can visit New Zealand’s only castle, take a quick walk down the world’s steepest street, and eat delicious food near St Clair Beach or Tunnel Beach. Spend a good few days here before leaving for your Catlins road trip in the early morning.

2. Nugget Point Lighthouse

At Nugget Point, you can take an easy walk to see one of New Zealand’s oldest lighthouses overlooking the rocky ‘nuggets’ in the sea below. You might even catch a glimpse of the rare yellow-eyed penguins or New Zealand fur seals. Nearby is the Catlins Kaka Point, a small town with a few restaurants for a quick bite.

3. Purakaunui Falls

The Catlins have plenty of beautiful falls, and Purakaunui is the first one on your day trip. Just a 10-minute walk from the car park through beech forest will take you to the silky three-tiered waterfall. Purakaunui Falls is an absolute sight to behold - no wonder it's one of Otago’s most photographed sites.

4. Horseshoe Falls and Matai Falls

At Table Hill Scenic Reserve, you can visit Horseshoe Falls and Matai Falls through one short stream-side track. The well-formed path and convenient picnic tables make this walk through native bush suitable for the whole family.

5. Florence Hill Lookout 

See the beautiful beach landscape of the Catlins at Florence Hill Lookout. This quick stop is also a great location to catch the Southern Lights at night in the autumn and winter months - if you’re lucky!

6. Cathedral Caves

The Cathedral Caves is an awe-inspiring set of massive limestone caves you won’t want to miss exploring. These cave systems join together within a cliff, with a height of 30 metres at their maximum point. Plan your visit well beforehand, as the caves may be closed due to the weather. The Cathedral Caves is only open from late October to April.

7. McLean Falls

A 30-minute walking distance from the start of Catlins Forest Park is the amazing McLean Falls. This hidden gem is actually comprised of three waterfalls, and you can even take a short walk up the rocks to the upper falls.

8. Curio Bay

Curio Bay is the site of a petrified forest that was buried by volcanic debris for some 180 million years. Throughout this period, silica turned the wood and ferns into stone, preserving the Jurassic period forest even now. Curio Bay is a must-see at low tide - where else can you get so close to hundreds of genuine fossils? Plus, you might even spot Hector’s dolphins here or at the nearby Porpoise Bay.

9. Slope Point

At the very bottom of New Zealand’s main two islands lies Slope Point. This area is so windy that the trees have been permanently warped by the weather, creating surreal, sideways foliage. Still, it’s a short walk down to the southernmost point signpost for a great photo op. You can often see sea lions at the Waipapa Point Lighthouse, another short drive away.

10. Invercargill

You’ve finally reached Invercargill! Check out Demolition World on the southside or head to the city centre to view a world-class collection of vintage vehicles at Bill Richardson Transport World. Nearby, Queens Park is great for beautiful walks and learning about native animals. You can even take a train or ferry to Stewart Island from here.

Explore the South Island the Right Way with RaD Car Hire 

Find the best of New Zealand’s far south with RaD Car Hire - we promise you’ll have so much fun seeing the stunning sights! No matter where you are, you can save money and time with our 22 branches in the South and North Island. Book today to secure your road trip rental car. Looking for more fun things to do in the country? Learn all about free West Auckland activities and attractions!