Catlins Scenic Tour: Te Anau to Dunedin
About this activity
Highlights
- Explore the stunning Catlins region
- Visit the famous Nugget Point Lighthouse
- Discover the unique Cathedral Caves
- Enjoy a scenic drive along the Southern Scenic Route
- Spot native wildlife in their natural habitat
Full description
Included / Excluded
- Hotel pickup in Te Anau
- Hotel drop-off in central Dunedin
- Lunch, snacks, and bottled water
- Optional activities and personal expenses
Itinerary
A brief stop in Invercargill offers a chance to stretch your legs or join/disembark the tour. Guests from the city can begin or end their journey here at approximately 9:00 AM.
Step onto the fossilised remains of a 180-million-year-old petrified forest at Curio Bay (visible at low tide). Keep watch for yellow-eyed penguins and Hectorâs dolphins that frequent the shoreline. ***Alternative: If tides allow, we may visit the stunning Cathedral Cavesâtowering sea caverns accessible via a scenic walk (entry fee applies).
We stop in the quiet Catlins village of Papatowai for lunch and a chance to visit the unique Lost Gypsy Caravan, a whimsical gallery of kinetic art, curiosities, and handmade wonders that never fail to surprise.
Take a short, easy walk through lush native forest to reach one of New Zealandâs most photographed waterfallsâPurakaunui Falls. Its tiered cascade makes for a peaceful and photogenic stop.
A gentle coastal walk leads us to the iconic Nugget Point Lighthouse, where panoramic views and dramatic sea stacks await. Spot fur seals, seabirds, and the raw power of the Southern Ocean from this spectacular lookout.
Pass by: We conclude our journey in Dunedin with drop-offs at your central accommodation. Known for its Scottish heritage, vibrant student life, and stunning architecture, Dunedin is a great place to end your southern adventureâor begin the next one.
Important information
Know before you book
- This tour is conducted in English; ensure you are comfortable with the language.
- The tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for the day's forecast.
- Please inform the operator of any dietary restrictions or preferences in advance.
Know before you go
- Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear suitable for walking and varying weather conditions.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters.
- Ensure you have a power bank or charger for your electronic devices during the tour.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Easy Public Transport
- Infant Seats Available
Good to know
- Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own
- Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, a moderate amount of walking is involved.
- Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
- Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person
Traveler reviews
Wonderful Experience, must do!
A wonderful day that started with a perfect rainbow welcoming us as Jacob our guide drove us from Te Anau to Dunedin via the Catlins. We saw the NZ falcon, sea lions, seals on the Catlins rugged coasts. Along the way we also saw a waterfall and 2 light houses. Indeed really rich ecpetiences for a day tour that also serves as a transport to bring us from te anau to Dunedin. Our tour guide Jason was amusing and entertaining throughout the trip. He was also a wonderful and careful driver making sure we have everything that is on the itinerary and more. Thank you Jason. You have made the day a truly memorable one!
A cheeky smile remains throughout our tour from Te Anau to Dunedin
We had a fantastic time from Te Anau with Guide Jason Bragg. Jason was most impressive throughout the journey 7 -5.30 pm , providing exiting narratives and insights along a nature trail. Besides being entertaining and affable , he was also hospitable . For a simple journey with little expectations, it turned out to be one of the highlights of our visit to NZ WELL DONE Cheeky Kiwi. If we returned , we will certainly use this company
The Catlins are a Hidden Gem!
I had no idea what to expect from this trip, having done basically no research on the Catlins or Dunedin before heading out. But I knew the minute I met Jason that he would make the day memorable. He is an amazing guide and driver, explaining so much about New Zealand, its culture, landscape and wildlife. His passion for this less-traveled area of the country is infectious. We saw beautiful waterfalls, ate great food and had a front row seat watching a pair of sea lions frolicking on the beach - an experience I will never forget. At the end of the day Jason was even able to squeeze in a stop in Dunedin to show us the steepest street in the world. I would highly recommend this tour, not just as a way to get from the west to the east coasts of the South Island, but for the road less traveled experience you will have along the way. If (when) I go back to New Zealand, I will spend more time in the Catlins.
Tour from Te Anua to Dunedin
I had the best experience on the tour. Our tour guide Jason was very nice and took great care of me. Also Jason gave me the encouragement to get too Nugget Point Lighthouse, my favorite spot and so very beautiful đ All of the places we stopped at were the best.
Good trip
This trip was a good opportunity to see the southern coast of the South Island, including the lesser known Catlins park area, and our guide Jason was great. If I had known about these one-way Cheeky Kiwi tours earlier, I would have ONLY traveled around NZ this way. Highly recommended