Invercargill to Dunedin via the Catlins Small Group 1 Way Tour
Overview
Available languages
9 hours
Mobile ticket
Discover New Zealand’s wild southern coast on a full-day tour from Invercargill to Dunedin. Traverse the stunning Catlins region, where ancient forests meet dramatic coastlines. Marvel at Curio Bay's fossilized forest, catch glimpses of rare wildlife, and visit the whimsical Lost Gypsy Caravan. Enjoy a leisurely walk to the picturesque Purakaunui Falls and take in ocean views from the iconic Nugget Point Lighthouse. With expert guides and small-group travel, this tour promises a relaxed and immersive experience in one of the South Island’s hidden gems.
- Full-day one-way tour from Invercargill to Dunedin (approx. 9 hours)
- Small group experience with a maximum of 15 guests for personalized attention
- Expert local guides and luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicle included
- Scenic stops include Curio Bay, Nugget Point Lighthouse, and Purakaunui Falls
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children aged 7 years and below are required to travel in a child safety car seat. You can hire seats ($20NZD per seat) or you can provide your own
Remaining hours will be allotted for the travel time
Not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, a moderate amount of walking is involved.
Due to uneven surfaces, this tour is not recommended for those with walking disabilities or using a wheelchair.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Curio Bay
Our first major stop is at Curio Bay, where you’ll walk across the fossilised remains of a 180-million-year-old petrified forest—visible at low tide. Keep an eye out for rare yellow-eyed penguins (hoiho) and playful Hector’s dolphins in the surf. Alternative stop: If tides allow, we may visit Cathedral Caves, a stunning pair of massive sea caverns accessible via a short forest and beach walk (entry fee applies).
Papatowai
We pause in the quiet Catlins village of Papatowai for lunch (own expense) and a visit to the delightfully quirky Lost Gypsy Caravan, a gallery of handmade kinetic art and curiosities that’s sure to amuse and inspire.
What‘s Included
Hotel pickup in Invercargill (select locations only)
Space for luggage - 1 large & 1 small per person
Small group experience (max 15 guests)
Central hotel drop off in Dunedin
Fully guided by local experts
Lunch
Accommodation
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Invercargill to Dunedin via the Catlins Small Group 1 Way Tour
Pickup included
Reviews
5 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Beyond Professional – A Truly Heartwarming Journey in Southland!
janecM4141VT,,Jan 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I was lucky enough to travel with Jase twice in Southland. He is an exceptional driver-guide who truly puts his heart into his work. Jase’s kindness is remarkable. I saw him personally escorting elderly passengers to the hotel reception, ensuring they were fully settled before he left. His sense of responsibility is deeply touching. He is incredibly passionate and flexible. Jase loves discussing the best routes to ensure his passengers get the ultimate experience, and he even added extra stops when time allowed. He also proactively takes photos for everyone, ensuring we leave with beautiful memories. It’s clear Jase loves what he does and always puts people first. If you’re looking for a reliable, professional, and warm-hearted guide in Southland, Jase is the best!
The Best Way is to efficiently see more NZ is to do a one-way!
Michael M,,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This offering changed my trip planning in a great way and allowed me to be more aggressive and ambitious in what ground I could cover. Originally, I wanted to see the South Island and major cities like Christchurch, Dunedin, and Queenstown, but I wasn't sure how I'd get to see all the little things in between without hiring a car. By offering a one-way trip between Invercargill and Dunedin, I could add that leg to my trip (i.e., fly to Invercargill) and count on the transfer to Dunedin while getting to see cool things along the way, like waterfalls, the petrified forest, the southern most point, and my favorite, the Nugget Point Lighthouse, which is a truly great spot that made this trip overwhelmingly worth it for me. And it won't be a great tour with out a great tour guide in Jason who made sure to give each stop its appropriate time and introduction, while managing expectations appropriately throughout the day. Cheeky Kiwi is on to something with these one-way tours (I think they currently only ones to offer such a thing) and they seem to have great people on the front end (tour guides) and back end (back office team was communicative and helpful at every step to coordinate logistics) to make it work. Looking forward to doing something like this again!
Rugged, beautiful and wild.
Trail10185609872,,Dec 12, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00An expertly-guided, fun-filled adventure of the majestic Caitlin’s. Highlights were McLean Falls and Nugget Point.
Amazing Day Trip from Dunedin to Invercargil
tall girl27,,Nov 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide, Jason drove us from Dunedin to Invercargill with so many amazing sightseeing stops along the way. He is truly passionate about his job, shares great stories, and always gives his best. We felt very well taken care of throughout the trip. Highly recommended!
Captivating Catlins
140ronaldj,,Nov 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The appeal was the one way tour which gave more time to explore without the need to return by the same route. Ending the tour at a different town enabled me to see more of the country
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Operated by Cheeky Kiwi Travel