24 Why choose Discover the World - see page 3 For our offi ce opening hours please visit our websiteDunedin & SouthlandNature - Pristine Wilderness - HeritageWith an abundance of natural wonders that includes some of the best wildlife viewing in the country the South Island's southern tip can also lay claim to the most interesting architecture in the elegant and stately city of Dunedin. Framed by a magnifi cent harbour the city is the main centre in the region. Boosted by riches from the 1861 gold rush, Dunedin grew from an isolated outpost to a bastion of European culture, whose architecture could be equally at home in Edinburgh. With New Zealand's oldest university and a thriving youth culture and rock music scene, abundant pubs and cafes, this is the place for lively nightlife as well. North and South of the city, the rugged coast is peppered with unusual geological formations, sheltered sandy bays and sheer cliffs, including those of the Catlins, a vast forest and coastal reserve, popular with outdoor enthusiasts. Not surprisingly, the region's wildlife is a big draw, with onshore colonies of penguins and albatross on the scenic Otago Peninsula, which also boasts dazzling rhododendron gardens at Glenfalloch. For rail enthusiasts, the 77km Taieri Gorge Railway ranks among the world's great rail journeys.Invercargill, New Zealand's southernmost city also has a marked Scottish character and its streets echo the names of highland rivers. Ferries depart from the nearby port of Bluff for the hour-long crossing to Stewart Island, most of which now comprises Rakiura National Park. Sandy beaches and lush rainforest form the landscape, providing the natural habitat of the kiwi making it one of the best places to observe this bird in the wild. Must Do's Discover the wildlife of the Otago Peninsula Explore the pristine Catlins Coast on a delightful bush walk Soak up the historic architecture around Dunedin Overnight kiwi spotting on Stewart Island Walk the rugged 3-day Hump Ridge Track See the spherical Moeraki Boulders near Oamaru© Fay Looney

Our viewThis region offers eco-tourism at its best with unforgettable wildlife encounters and pristine wilderness areas, all on the doorstep of a lively city.We Recommend5-Day Southern ScenicDay 1 Dunedin-Catlins Forest Park Take the time to explore this nature-rich corner of South Island comprising awesome beaches, rugged headland, towering cliffs, waterfalls and native forest. With many walking trails the must sees include Nugget Point and Purakaunui Falls. This is the perfect area for a farmstay. Day 2 Catlins-Stewart Island Drive to Curio Bay and continue to Bluff to hop on the ferry to Stewart Island. Go kiwi-spotting in the evening.Day 3 Stewart Island Spend a full day on New Zealand's third island and visit Ulva Island Nature Reserve, take a cruise or savour the peace and tranquillity of this natural paradise. Day 4 Stewart Island-Invercargill Return to the mainland and head to Invercargill. Continue to the coastal village of Riverton, a good spot to pick up paua shell before returning to NZ's most southerly city.Day 5 Invercargill-Dunedin Follow the road inland through Gore to Dunedin.Dunedin & Southland HighlightsOtago PeninsulaExperienceDiscover rich wildlife including yellow-eyed penguins, little blue penguins, Albatross colonies and fur seals. This is an eco-paradise with an international reputation.Cycle the Central Otago Rail TrailExperienceFollow the former railway route between Middlemarch and Clyde on New Zealand's best-known cycle trail - 150 kms long with a gentle gradient. Larnach LodgeAccommodationStay at Larnach Lodge, New Zealand's only castle! With its exciting, tragic and sometimes scandalous history, the Lodge offers a vision of past and present with incredible architecture and amazing views. Ulva Island Bird & Forest WalkExperienceEnjoy a gentle 4-5 hour guided walk with excellent commentary on the primeval rainforest, rare and threatened birds and plants as well as Maori and European history.Oamaru Blue Penguin ColonyAttractionWatch Little Blue Penguins come ashore at dusk and take time out to view the charming Victorian buildings of Oamaru.Taieri Gorge RailwayExperienceOne of the world's great rail journeys, the Taieri Gorge Railway steams from the heart of Dunedin to the rugged mountain interior of Central Otago and back, crossing magnificent viaducts.© Chris McLennan© Venture Southland © Arno Gasteiger discover-the-world.co.uk/newzealandbrochure talk to the experts 01737 218 80025