Bluff

Bluff is a town and seaport on the southern coast of the South Island of New Zealand, an island country in the south western Pacific Ocean. Bluff is located at the end of a peninsula that forms the western side of Bluff Harbour and Awarua Bay, with the port located in the relatively narrow entrance channel.

Bluff holds an annual oyster festival, their oysters are renowned for their succulence and flavour.

The Bluff Maritime Museum contains an extensive collection of models, boats, artefacts, displays and a full sized oystering boat.

The Stirling Point international signpost provides a perfect photo opportunity. It is the beginning (or end) of State Highway One leading north all the way to Cape Reinga at the top of the North Island. Topuni Track takes you from Stirling Point to Bluff Hill, whilst the Foveaux Walkway goes up to Lookout Point.

For panoramic views of Bluff and the surrounding seas, including Stewart Island, drive up Flagstaff Road (steep in sections) to the top of Bluff Hill Scenic Reserve (or Motupohue). There are also many quiet trails to explore nearby including Foveaux Walkway, Glory Track and Millennium Track.

The 20km Bluff Heritage Trail consists of 17 sites and features the life of Bluff’s most famous son, Sir Joseph Ward, a former mayor of Bluff and Prime Minister of New Zealand.

Take an island harbour tour or helicopter flightseeing trip or the more adventurous, experience a shark dive and meet great white sharks in their natural habitat.

Tee off at Bluff Golf Links on Omaui Road (Greenhills), the southernmost 9 hole golf course in New Zealand.

The Lighthouse Gallery on Gore Street presents creative works of local artists who mainly focus on the Southland area.

Omaui Beach (signposted from Invercargill-Bluff highway) has picnic spots, beach walks and BBQ facilities.

Fresh fish and seafood, especially oysters, crayfish, salmon and blue cod feature highly on local menus.

Cruise ships dock at Bluff Port, which is around 1.6km from the centre of town.

The harbour is also the terminus for the twice-daily catamaran ferry to Stewart Island/Rakiura, 60 km south across Foveaux Strait.

Visitor information can be obtained from Bluff Service Centre on Gore Street.