Southland & Stewart Island holidays

Wonderful, uncrowded attractions in New Zealand's Southland

New Zealand’s Southland region is often overlooked in favour of the country’s more famous attractions, but a visit here is full of rewarding sights. Scottish-influenced cities display wonderful architecture, lush rainforests contain hidden waterfalls, and wildlife viewing is abundant – from seal and albatross colonies to little Blue and Yellow-eyed penguin conservation sites.

20 miles south of New Zealand’s South Island lies Stewart Island, where 85% of the land is national park. The island’s 400 inhabitants adhere to a slower, simpler pace of life - all about the bush, beach, flora and fauna.

Stay at the
Scenic Hotel Southern Cross in Dunedin to explore this exciting region.

Southland & Stewart Island highlights
•   Watch little Blue Penguins raft in from a day’s fishing at the excellent and eco-friendly Oamaru Blue Penguin Colony.
•   Discover the natural world of bush and beach on our
Stewart Island Experience.
•   Visit the magnificent Larnach Castle near Dunedin, with its breathtaking views and grounds.
•   Take a walk up (and up…) Dunedin’s Baldwin Street, considered the steepest residential street in the world.
•   Venture beyond the tourist trail and drive the Catlins Coast – see the wave-eroded ‘nuggets’ and nearby fur seal colony, climb Purakaunui Falls, and view the fossil forest at Curio Bay.

New Zealand Tailor Made Holidays
Don’t forget that with Kuoni you can create your own dream New Zealand holiday by customising your trip, choosing different combinations of nights, hotels and resorts.
•   Request a copy of our superb
Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific brochure.
•   Call our Personal Travel Experts on
01306 747002 who will be happy to talk you through your requirements and provide a personalised quotation.
•  
Request a quote online.

New Zealand Facts
Find out more about the history and culture of this wonderful country by visiting our information and facts page.

Population

New Zealand has a population of approx. 4.3 million people. The Southland region has a population of approx. 95,000 people. Stewart Island has just 400 inhabitants.

Time difference / local time

GMT +12 hours (GMT +13 hours from the last week in March to the first week in October)

Language

English. Maori is also spoken but is not widely used.

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZ$) comprising of 100 cents.

Passports and Visas

Visas are not required for UK passport holders.

Flying time to destination

Christchurch: 24½ hours

AirportTaxes

Departure tax is payable when leaving New Zealand (approx NZ$25) except when flying out of Auckland airport.

Electricity

230 volt AC. Three round pin plugs are used, therefore an adapter is required.

Health Care

No compulsory vaccinations but tetanus is recommended. For more detailed information we recommend you contact your GP or a specialist vaccination centre.

History

The history of New Zealand dates back to approx. 1250 AD. It was discovered by Polynesians, who settled and developed a distinct Maori culture centred on kinship links and land. New Zealand is often referred to as the 'youngest country', as it was one of the last major landmasses to be inhabited, and has a fascinating mix of Maori and European heritage.

Tipping

Tipping is a matter of choice. For excellent service, a discretionary tip of 10% may be given.

Climate data for this region

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