The Catlins
Southern Place Map
The Catlins
Southland
The Catlins is a rugged coastal region of forest, cliffs, waterfalls, beaches, farmland and wildlife-rich shorelines. Curio Bay, Waikawa, Fortrose and Slope Point help mark the Southland side of this wild southern coast. Settlement is sparse and the landscape often feels remote, with small coastal communities surrounded by native bush, exposed headlands, pastoral land and long stretches of unpopulated coastline.
Est. unpopulated land: ~98%
Approx. size: ~1,500 km²
Towns/cities: 4
Places in The Catlins
Southern Catalogue
Cathedral Caves
Papatowai · The Catlins
A tide-dependent beach and sea-cave experience that feels very different from inland waterfall stops. The safest public viewing or stopping point is Cathedral Caves access car park, Chaslands Highway; beach…
Southern Catalogue
Curio Bay visitor facilities
Curio Bay · The Catlins
Coastal visitor facilities supporting one of The Catlins’ major stop clusters. Arrival point: Curio Bay visitor centre and campground area, Curio Bay Road. Check signs for opening, accessibility and temporary…
Southern Catalogue
Fortrose public facilities
Fortrose · The Catlins
A coastal service stop at the western edge of The Catlins route. Arrival point: Fortrose public toilet, 46 Moray Terrace, Fortrose. Council facilities can close for cleaning or maintenance, so…
Southern Catalogue
Papatowai visitor facilities
Papatowai · The Catlins
A useful Catlins pause point near beaches, forest and coastal visitor routes. Arrival point: Papatowai township and recreation reserve, The Catlins. Use the facility only for its signed purpose, carry…
Southern Catalogue
Waikawa traveller facilities
Waikawa · The Catlins
A small Catlins stop for visitors moving between Curio Bay, Fortrose and coastal lookouts. Arrival point: Waikawa township reserve and signed council facilities. Keep mobility and service access clear, follow…