New Zealand’s southernmost province, Southland spans the breadth of the South Island. Much of its uniqueness and intrigue lies in the ever-changing backdrops – vistas so different, it’s difficult to imagine you’re in the same country, let alone the same province.

The remote beauty of Stewart Island and the rugged mountains and glacial lakes of Fiordland National Park are the two main attractions of this region. A diverse range of activities includes everything from kayaking and diving to cycling, walking, hunting and fishing.

Southland's largest city is Invercargill, an attractive garden city known for its southern hospitality. The port at Bluff is famous for its succulent Bluff oysters. Across the 32km width of Foveaux Strait is Stewart Island, a haven for walkers and native wildlife. On the southwest corner of the South Island's west coast lies Fiordland, a spectacular indented coastline which gives its name to New Zealand's largest national park.

Nestled on the tranquil shores of Lake Te Anau, Te Anau Township is a gateway to the Fiordland National Park, Milford and Doubtful Sounds and the Te Anau Glowworm Caves. The town is Fiordland’s main resort and has a well deserved reputation as New Zealand's walking capital and is especially popular with walkers during the summer. The town is an excellent starting point for some of the Great Walks - the Kepler, Milford and Routeburn tracks. Dining is excellent - Fiordland delicacies such as venison and lobster are available at the town's many fine restaurants. Te Anau offers seven-day shopping facilities and a full range of visitor services.

Float plane and helicopter rides around the lake and other, more remote, parts of Fiordland reveal views of spectacular mountain scenery. Hunting, fishing, horseriding, kayaking and golf are also popular, and coach connections link up with cruises at Milford and Doubtful Sound. Coach and air services bring passengers in from the West Coast, Christchurch, Queenstown, Dunedin and Invercargill.