The Catlins

The Catlins also known as the Catlins Coast is an area in the south-eastern corner of the South Island, New Zealand. It is located between Balclutha and Invercargill. The Catlins includes the South Island's southernmost point, Slope Point.

Owaka is the main town; it has a collection of necessary shops and services. Accommodation in the Catlins area is full of local character, especially if you choose to stay in B&B's, farm stays and self-contained cottages.

The Catlins is full of native animals and native flora it often hosts New Zealand fur seals and Hooker's sea lions. Several species of penguin also nest along the coast, notably the rare yellow-eyed penguin as well as other seabirds.

In the forests, endangered birds occur, as do other birds such as the tui, fantail and the New Zealand pigeon. One of New Zealand's only two native species of non-marine mammal, the long-tailed bat, lives in small numbers within the forests, and several species of lizard are also found locally, including the southern forest gecko.

Many species of fish, shellfish, and crustaceans are regular in both the local rivers and sea, particularly crayfish and paua. Hector's dolphins can often be seen close to the Catlins coast. Migratory southern right whales can also be spotted along the coastline during the winter season.

The Catlins History

The Catlins' first human inhabitants were Maori of the Kati Mamoe, Waitaha and Kai Tahu tribes, which today are known collectively as Ngai Tahu. No formal Maori pa (fort) was located in the Catlins, but there were many hunting camps. The area was once inhabited by giant flightless birds known as moa, and the timber of the forest was ideal for canoe construction.

Main Towns in the Southland Region

Other Towns in the Southland Region