Discover the Tranquility of Shelter Islands
Escape to Shelter Islands in Southland, New Zealand: a tranquil paradise for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those in search of serenity.
Shelter Islands, located in Southland, New Zealand, invite tourists to explore their untouched beauty and serene landscapes. Ideal for nature lovers, these islands offer breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and a peaceful atmosphere that captivates every visitor. Experience the allure of pristine beaches and tranquil waters as you embrace the essence of New Zealand's natural wonder.
A brief summary to Shelter Islands
- Southland, 9679, NZ
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring along a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach, as there are limited dining options on the islands.
- Plan your visit during the warmer months for the best weather and outdoor activities.
- Respect the natural environment by following local guidelines and preserving the beauty of the islands.
- Consider visiting during sunrise or sunset for breathtaking views and fewer crowds.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from Invercargill, the largest city in Southland. Head north on State Highway 1 (SH1) towards Gore. After about 30 minutes, you will reach Gore. Continue on SH1 for about an hour until you reach the town of Balclutha. From Balclutha, take State Highway 8 (SH8) heading towards Lawrence. After approximately 20 minutes, you will arrive in Lawrence. From Lawrence, take the road towards Waitahuna, then follow the signs to the small ferry terminal. Here, you will need to take a ferry to Shelter Islands. The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes and costs approximately NZD 20 per person one way.
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Public Transportation
For those using public transportation, first take a bus from Invercargill to Gore. You can catch the bus at the Invercargill Bus Station. The journey takes about 30 minutes and costs around NZD 10. Once in Gore, switch to a bus heading to Balclutha, which will take about 1 hour and cost about NZD 5. After reaching Balclutha, you will need to arrange a taxi to take you to the ferry terminal for the crossing to Shelter Islands. The taxi fare may vary, but expect to pay around NZD 30. Once you arrive at the ferry terminal, purchase your ferry ticket for NZD 20, and enjoy the 30-minute ferry ride to Shelter Islands.
Discover more about Shelter Islands
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Freeman Burn Hut
42.3 km
Experience the serene wilderness of Freeman Burn Hut in Fiordland National Park, where adventure meets tranquility in stunning alpine settings.
Lake Roe Hut
51.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Lake Roe Hut in Fiordland National Park, a perfect retreat for hiking, fishing, and unplugging in nature's embrace.
Rocky Point Shelter
56.0 km
Experience the tranquility of Rocky Point Shelter, your gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of Fiordland National Park and the Kepler Track.
hope Arm Hut
61.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of Hope Arm Hut in Fiordland National Park - a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Te Anau Lions Lookout Point
69.8 km
Explore the stunning Te Anau Lions Lookout Point for breathtaking views of Lake Te Anau and the surrounding mountains in New Zealand's Fiordland region.
Westernmost Point of The South Island of New Zealand
79.4 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty of the Westernmost Point of New Zealand's South Island, where rugged landscapes meet the roaring Tasman Sea.
South West New Zealand World Heritage Area
80.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and unique ecosystems of South West New Zealand World Heritage Area, a UNESCO treasure for nature lovers.
Worsley Hut
82.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Worsley Hut in Fiordland National Park, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure.
Cockburn's Tower
83.8 km
Discover Cockburn's Tower, a historic landmark in Mount Prospect, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region's rich heritage.
Walker Creek DOC Campsite
86.2 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Walker Creek DOC Campsite in Fiordland National Park, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventurers seeking unforgettable memories.
Lake Hauroko Lookout
86.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Lake Hauroko Lookout, a scenic gem in Fiordland National Park, perfect for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Eglinton Flats
89.4 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and serene atmosphere of Eglinton Flats, a must-visit tourist attraction in Southland, New Zealand.
Kiosk Creek Campsite (DOC)
94.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Kiosk Creek Campsite in Fiordland National Park, where nature meets adventure in a stunning landscape.
The Southland App
98.1 km
Discover Southland's beauty and local culture with The Southland App, your ultimate guide to adventures, dining, and attractions.
Unmissable attractions to see
Campbell's Kingdom NZ
20.5 km
Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich heritage at Campbell's Kingdom, a breathtaking tourist attraction in Southland, New Zealand.
Nick's Landing
29.3 km
Explore the serene landscapes of Nick's Landing, a peaceful memorial park in Southland, New Zealand, perfect for reflection and relaxation.
Helena Falls
30.1 km
Experience the beauty of Helena Falls, a stunning waterfall in Fiordland National Park, surrounded by lush landscapes and breathtaking views.
Doubtful Sound View Point
34.7 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Doubtful Sound View Point, a tranquil escape in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
The Cleve Garth Falls
37.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cleve Garth Falls in Southland, New Zealand, a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The Dusky Track Experience
39.0 km
Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and wildlife of the Dusky Track, a premier hiking destination in New Zealand's Fiordland region.
Fiordland National Park
39.3 km
Experience the breathtaking fjords, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes of Fiordland National Park, a true natural wonder in New Zealand.
Herrick Creek
40.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Herrick Creek in Fiordland National Park, a scenic spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Te Wahipounamu
43.5 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Te Wahipounamu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in New Zealand.
supper Cove
47.1 km
Discover the untouched beauty of Supper Cove in Southland, a tranquil tourist attraction perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
The Dusky Track
48.1 km
Explore The Dusky Track in Southland, New Zealand - a breathtaking hiking adventure through stunning landscapes and pristine wilderness.
Iris Burn Hut
50.0 km
Experience nature's tranquility at Iris Burn Hut, a serene accommodation spot along the stunning Kepler Track in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand.
Alice Falls
53.9 km
Experience the natural beauty of Alice Falls, a breathtaking waterfall in Southland, New Zealand, perfect for exploration and relaxation.
Lake Manapouri
54.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lake Manapouri, New Zealand's hidden gem in the heart of Southland, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Luxmore Summit walk
55.4 km
Discover the breathtaking Luxmore Summit Walk in Fiordland National Park, a hiker's paradise with stunning views and diverse landscapes.
Essential places to dine
Redcliff Restaurant and bar
65.8 km
Experience exquisite dining at Redcliff Restaurant and Bar in Te Anau – where stunning views meet delectable local cuisine.
Naturally Fiordland
65.9 km
Savor local flavors at Naturally Fiordland, where culinary excellence meets stunning views in Te Anau's heart.
Ristorante Pizzeria Paradiso
66.0 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Pizzeria Paradiso in Te Anau – where every dish is crafted with passion and tradition.
Sandfly Cafe Te Anau
66.0 km
Experience delightful breakfasts and fresh coffee at Sandfly Cafe Te Anau - your perfect start before exploring Fiordland's wonders.
The Ranch Bar & Grill
66.1 km
Experience family-friendly dining at The Ranch Bar & Grill in Te Anau, where hearty meals meet warm hospitality amidst stunning New Zealand landscapes.
The Fat Duck
66.1 km
Experience exceptional New Zealand cuisine at The Fat Duck in Te Anau—where local flavors meet culinary creativity.
Glow Worm Restaurant
66.3 km
Experience the flavors of New Zealand at Glow Worm Restaurant in Te Anau – where local ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Jimmy Cook's Kiwi Kitchen
66.3 km
Experience authentic New Zealand cuisine at Jimmy Cook's Kiwi Kitchen with stunning lakefront views in Te Anau.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Time Traders
64.6 km
Discover unique New Zealand souvenirs at Time Traders, a consignment shop in Manapouri offering eclectic finds and local treasures.
Sawdust Designs
65.0 km
Explore handcrafted treasures at Sawdust Designs in Manapouri, where local craftsmanship meets natural beauty, perfect for unique souvenirs.
Wild Wool Gallery (Alpaca Farm)
65.7 km
Explore Wild Wool Gallery in Manapouri for an authentic alpaca farm experience and discover unique wool products crafted with care.
Simply New Zealand - Te Anau - Lakefront
65.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at Simply New Zealand - Te Anau Lakefront, the perfect souvenir shop for your New Zealand adventure.
RD Petroleum Lakeside On the Spot
65.8 km
Explore the wonders of Te Anau with all your travel essentials at RD Petroleum Lakeside On the Spot, the ultimate convenience store and fueling station.
Luxmore Souvenirs 南方禮品中心
65.8 km
Explore Luxmore Souvenirs in Te Anau for unique gifts and authentic Kiwi memorabilia that capture the spirit of New Zealand.
Jane Gilder Sewing & Design
65.8 km
Explore your creativity at Jane Gilder Sewing & Design, Te Anau's premier destination for custom tailoring, embroidery, and crafting supplies.
Four Square Te Anau
65.9 km
Discover Four Square Te Anau for all your grocery needs while exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Fiordland, New Zealand.
Outside Sports Te Anau
65.9 km
Your ultimate destination for outdoor gear in Te Anau, New Zealand, offering everything from bicycles to camping essentials for the perfect adventure.
Kiwi Country
65.9 km
Explore Kiwi Country in Te Anau for unique men’s and women’s fashion that captures the spirit of New Zealand.
Jade Country
65.9 km
Discover exquisite jade jewelry and craftsmanship at Jade Country, a must-visit destination in Te Anau, New Zealand.
Kiwi House
65.9 km
Discover unique New Zealand gifts at Kiwi House in Te Anau, where local craftsmanship meets unforgettable souvenirs.
FreshChoice Te Anau
65.9 km
Explore FreshChoice Te Anau for all your grocery needs, featuring local produce and international delights in the heart of Fiordland.
Hospice Shop
66.0 km
Explore the Hospice Shop in Te Anau for unique second-hand treasures while supporting local hospice services.
Wild Rides - Bike Fiordland
66.0 km
Experience Fiordland's breathtaking landscapes on two wheels with Wild Rides - Bike Fiordland, your ultimate cycling adventure hub.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Church Manapouri
64.6 km
Experience the exquisite flavors of The Church Manapouri, a charming grill restaurant in the heart of New Zealand's stunning landscapes.
Manapouri Lakeview Cafe and Bar
64.9 km
Experience the beauty of Lake Manapouri while enjoying delicious meals and drinks at the Lakeview Cafe and Bar - a perfect spot for relaxation.
Bailiez Cafe & Bar
65.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Te Anau at Bailiez Cafe & Bar, where delicious food meets a warm atmosphere in the heart of Fiordland.
The Moose Bar and Armadillos Restaurant
65.9 km
Discover The Moose Bar and Armadillos Restaurant, a vibrant pub in Te Anau with stunning lake views and a diverse menu for all tastes.
Armadillos Te Anau
65.9 km
Discover local flavors at Armadillos Te Anau, where comfort food meets scenic views of the stunning Fiordland region.
Hollyford Cafe
65.9 km
Discover the flavors of New Zealand at Hollyford Cafe, a cozy culinary haven in Te Anau, offering fresh, local cuisine in a charming atmosphere.
The Explorer Bar
66.0 km
Discover the cozy atmosphere of The Explorer Bar in Te Anau, where local wines and stunning views create an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Black Dog Bar
66.0 km
Discover the vibrant culture and exquisite cocktails of Black Dog Bar in Te Anau, the perfect spot for relaxation and culinary delight.
La Toscana Pizzeria
66.1 km
Experience the essence of Italy at La Toscana Pizzeria in Te Anau, where every dish is crafted with passion and served with warmth.
Radha's Indian Restaurant
66.1 km
Experience the rich flavors and spices of authentic Indian cuisine at Radha's Indian Restaurant in Te Anau.
Milford Road Merchant
66.5 km
Discover the cozy Milford Road Merchant in Te Anau – your perfect stop for premium coffee and delicious takeaway meals amidst New Zealand's natural beauty.
Alpine Centre Cafe & Bar
67.4 km
Experience the perfect blend of scenic views and culinary delights at the Alpine Centre Cafe & Bar in Southland, New Zealand.
