Te Anau to Dunedin Via The Catlins Small-Group Tour (One-Way)

5.0 (17 reviews) 11 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

17 reviews

5.0

Te Anau to Dunedin Via The Catlins Small-Group Tour (One-Way) — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Te Anau to Dunedin Via The Catlins Small-Group Tour (One-Way), photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Venture into the rugged beauty of the Catlins on this full-day, one- way small group tour from Te Anau to Dunedin. Delight in the dramatic seascapes, ancient forests, and rare wildlife as you explore one of New Zealand’s untouched regions. Enjoy guided storytelling, scenic stops, and a relaxed pace throughout the journey. Key highlights include the fossilized forest at Curio Bay, a whimsical lunch stop at the Lost Gypsy Caravan, and breathtaking views at Nugget Point Lighthouse. With a maximum of 15 guests, this tour offers an intimate experience in a comfortable Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

Small group experience with a maximum of 15 guests
Guided exploration of Curio Bay, Purakaunui Falls, and Nugget Point
Lunch stop at Papatowai with a visit to the Lost Gypsy Caravan
Includes water, snacks, and drop-off at your accommodation in Dunedin

Nature and Wildlife Tours Full-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Excellent Quality New Product Weather Dependent - Moderate Agent Low Quality Product

At a glance

Duration: 11 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 15 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: Cheeky Kiwi Travel

Ages: Infants (0–3 years) · Children (4–14 years) · Adults (15–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Safety/booster seat for children aged 7 & younger (please advise if you prefer to provide your own)
Included: Bottled water
Included: Hotel Drop off in Dunedin (central locations only)
Included: Space for luggage - 1 large & 1 small per person
Included: Snacks
Included: Hotel pickup in Te Anau (Select locations only)

Not included

Not included: Lunch: Opportunity to purchase at own expense
Not included: Accommodation
Not included: On-board restrooms: Restroom on board

Itinerary

Invercargill

30 min

A brief stop in Invercargill offers a chance to stretch your legs or join/disembark the tour. Guests from the city can begin or end their journey here at approximately 9:00 AM.
Curio Bay

1 h 30 min

Step onto the fossilised remains of a 180-million-year-old petrified forest at Curio Bay (visible at low tide). Keep watch for yellow-eyed penguins and Hector’s dolphins that frequent the shoreline.

***Alternative: If tides allow, we may visit the stunning Cathedral Caves—towering sea caverns accessible via a scenic walk (entry fee applies).
Papatowai

one hour

We stop in the quiet Catlins village of Papatowai for lunch and a chance to visit the unique Lost Gypsy Caravan, a whimsical gallery of kinetic art, curiosities, and handmade wonders that never fail to surprise.
Purakaunui Falls Walk

30 min

Take a short, easy walk through lush native forest to reach one of New Zealand’s most photographed waterfalls—Purakaunui Falls. Its tiered cascade makes for a peaceful and photogenic stop.
Nugget Point Lighthouse

one hour

A gentle coastal walk leads us to the iconic Nugget Point Lighthouse, where panoramic views and dramatic sea stacks await. Spot fur seals, seabirds, and the raw power of the Southern Ocean from this spectacular lookout.
Dunedin

Passing by

We conclude our journey in Dunedin with drop-offs at your central accommodation. Known for its Scottish heritage, vibrant student life, and stunning architecture, Dunedin is a great place to end your southern adventure—or begin the next one.

Meeting point and pickup

You can be picked up from your accommodation or go straight to the meeting point.

Meeting point

If not being collected from one of our hotel options, please meet your guide at the bus stop, by the public restrooms.

End point

Drop off to central locations available
Central drops available

Pickup points

Fiordland Lakeview Motel and Apartments
Distinction Luxmore Hotel Lake Te Anau
Alpine View Motel
Distinction Te Anau Hotel and Villas
Parklands Motel
Amber Court Motel
Fiordland Hotel/Motel
Lakeside Motel & Apartments
Lakefront Lodge Te Anau
Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park & Motels
Arran Motel
Anchorage Motel Apartments

and 13 more pickup points

*If no pickup is selected at time of booking, you will be allocated our default meeting point (94 Te Anau Terrace). You are welcome to update this at any time. If your location isn’t listed, please choose your nearest available option & meet us there.

*Pick-ups can begin up to 15 minutes before the tour departure time, depending on location. To ensure a smooth start, please be ready and waiting outside 10 minute prior to your specific pickup time.

*Pick-up locations are carefully planned for each tour and may vary by day. If your pick-up location changes, kindly inform us in advance.

*Our guides make multiple stops and may arrive within a 10-minute window. We are unable to wait for late guests.

Using your ticket

*You will receive an email with important pickup information in the days prior, please read this information.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Luggage allowance - 1 large & 1 small per person
Due to uneven surfaces & a moderate amount of walking being involved, this tour is not recommended for travelers with severe mobility difficulties, or wheelchair users