The Catlins Travel Guide
Tourist Guide





Visit The Catlins

The Kaka Point Motels
The room was spotlessly clean, nice facilities and friendly reception staff. The unit had overlooking fields of sheep and sea views. Recommended if you’re in the area or planning to stop over on a road trip
Reviewed on 22 Nov 2025

Curio Bay Salt House Motel
The executive apartment was very large, comfortable and immaculately clean. The deck had beautiful ocean views - we saw a fur seal and penguins right from our deck. It's within walking distance of the penguin viewing area and petrified forest. It is a perfect place to enjoy Curio Bay.
Reviewed on 26 Nov 2025

Catlins Newhaven Holiday Park
Loved the serenity. Proprietors were awesome, too! Lovely people to deal with!
Reviewed on 21 Apr 2025

Kaka Point Luxury Spa Accommodation
Amazing views at the property. Wonderful place to stay. Truly bliss!
Reviewed on 6 Nov 2024

Catlins Lake Sanctuary
This was a great base camp for exploring the Catlins. Beds were clean and comfortable, although I felt I had to wipe down the kitchen before using it. The property was amazing! Beautiful views of the estuary, a peaceful place to walk in the mornings, and good view of stars at night.
Reviewed on 28 Feb 2020

Koru Flat
The property was neat and tidy. We didn't spend too much time in the property - just to eat and sleep! The bathroom isn't flash but the shower was just amazing! Was so tired but the water pressure was perfect - better than a massage!
Reviewed on 3 Feb 2022
Popular places to visit

Nugget Point Lighthouse
Sitting high above the water’s edge, this historic lighthouse has been a fixture of the Catlins for more than a century.

Curio Bay Petrified Forest
Explore the great outdoors at Curio Bay Petrified Forest, a lovely green space in Curio Bay. Stroll along the beaches or visit the monuments while you're in the area.

Jack's Blowhole
See the powerful natural feature named after a Māori chief by following a short trail on a private sheep farm.

McLean Falls
This two-part waterfall is the end-point of an easy walk through varied forest and bush land and one of the most impressive in the Catlins area.

Purakaunui Falls
Visit the Catlins’ most famous waterfalls to see why it has adorned postcards and postage stamps for decades.

Kaka Point Scenic Reserve
Explore the great outdoors at Kaka Point Scenic Reserve, a lovely green space in Kaka Point. While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.



