Three Popular Tourist Spots in the Catlins

The Catlins are located in the thinly populated area of the southern part of the South Island, in New Zealand. Rocky coastlines with wide stretches of tranquil beaches, rolling hills and a large number of marine fauna, such as penguins, sea lions and dolphins are part and parcel of the landscape. Because of the rich landscape and tranquil beaches, people from all across the globe book tickets for the Catlins. Its natural settings along with the tranquil surroundings make it a perfect place for nature lovers and adventure-sports enthusiasts.

Porpoise Bay

Porpoise Bay is a part of the beach which is shaped like a crescent, between the ocean and the beach. The bay becomes home to the smallest and the rarest marine dolphin in the world, for about seven months in a year. You can see the blue-black and white, Hector’s dolphin here, known to be found only in coastal areas of New Zealand. The dolphins can be spotted most of the days when the water is calm. You will also find other tourists relaxing and having a good time at the beach.

Cathedral Caves

Cathedral Caves are one of the most popular places to visit on your trip to Catlins. In order to reach the caves, you have to walk through a lush green forest. Once you reach the end, get ready for some breathtaking views of rugged arches and sea caves. In fact, these have given the Cathedral Caves their name. With ceilings as high as 30 metres, the caves have splendid acoustic features. Another interesting thing about the caves is that they can only be accessed at low tide. They are generally shut for days during the storms or the days when the tides are really high.

Nugget Point

Nugget Point is considered to be one of the oldest lighthouses in the country. It takes about half an hour to reach the lighthouse through the cliffs from the car-parking area. There is a viewing platform from where you can spot yellow-eyed penguins and seals in the area. At the southernmost point of the South Island, lies the Slope Point. Beyond these steep cliffs there are a number of tiny islands and finally, the Antarctic. There is a popular signpost which reads Equator and South Pole on the opposite ends on the Slope Point.