Last updated July 2026
The Invercargill Bluff Trail (Te Ara Taurapa) is a 25-kilometre shared path connecting Invercargill to Bluff in Southland. It offers an off-road route for walkers and cyclists with coastal scenery and cultural interpretation panels. The trail forms the southern end of the Te Araroa Trail and follows historic corridors while providing safe passage away from State Highway 1. The final 16 kilometres are sealed, making the route suitable for a range of abilities. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views, native wildlife, and stories of Ngāi Tahu heritage along the way.
Practical Information
| Length | 25 km |
| Sealed section | Final 16 km |
| Opened | March 2022 (work completed late 2021) |
| Shared use | Walkers, cyclists, runners |
| Access points | Invercargill (Stead Street Wharf area), Greenpoint, Bluff |
| Part of | Te Araroa Trail |
| Interpretation panels | Six cultural panels |
About the Invercargill Bluff Trail
The Invercargill Bluff Trail, officially named Te Ara Taurapa by mana whenua, provides a safe off-road connection between Invercargill and Bluff. It runs approximately 25 kilometres and serves as the final section of the 3000-kilometre Te Araroa Trail that stretches from Cape Reinga to Bluff.
The route follows the historic 1860s road and rail corridor and an ancient Māori travel route known as an ara tawhito. It was developed through collaboration between Environment Southland, Invercargill City Council, Waka Kotahi New Zealand Transport Agency, and local rūnaka including Te Rūnaka o Awarua and Waihōpai Rūnaka.
The name Te Ara Taurapa refers to the journey along the sternpost of the waka Aoraki, reflecting the cultural narrative of the area. Six interpretation panels installed along the trail share Ngāi Tahu stories, including the significance of Awarua and the original Māori name for Bluff, Motupōhue.
The trail passes through varied landscapes including estuary edges, coastal areas near the 3 Sisters and Omaui, and the Bluff Hill Scenic Reserve. It offers views of Foveaux Strait and opportunities to observe seals, seabirds, and a shag colony. The Greenpoint ship graveyard adds a historical element near the southern end.
Trail Sections and Access
The northern sections begin near Stead Street Wharf in Invercargill and follow the New River Estuary toward Awarua. The final 16 kilometres form a sealed shared path that provides a safer alternative to the busy State Highway 1.
Users can start or finish at Greenpoint, approximately 3 kilometres from Bluff, for shorter outings. Wayfinding signage and seating areas are provided along the route. The path suits walking, running, and cycling, though conditions near any remaining highway sections require extra care, especially with children or in poor weather.
History, Culture and Environment
Te Ara Taurapa honours both Māori and European heritage. It traces longstanding travel routes while reducing vehicle traffic through the provision of an off-road facility. The six cultural panels were developed in partnership with mana whenua and enhance the visitor experience with stories of the land and sea.
The trail supports environmental stewardship by showcasing native flora and fauna in reserves and coastal areas. It promotes sustainable recreation as part of the national Te Araroa network.
What Visitors Often Say
Walkers and cyclists appreciate the sealed southern section for its smooth surface and safety compared with the highway. Many enjoy the coastal views and the cultural panels that add depth to the journey.
Users note the trail suits a range of fitness levels on the flatter sealed parts, while the northern sections offer more variety. Wildlife sightings and the ship graveyard are frequently mentioned as highlights.
Where to Learn More
Environment Southland: Official page with trail details and maps.
Environment Southland news: Announcement of the official opening and project background.
Southlandnz.com: Visitor information and trail highlights.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the length of the Invercargill Bluff Trail?
The trail is approximately 25 kilometres long from Invercargill to Bluff.
Is the trail sealed?
The final 16 kilometres are a sealed shared path suitable for walkers and cyclists.
When was the trail opened?
Work was completed in late 2021 and the trail was officially opened in March 2022.
Can cyclists use the trail?
Yes, the trail is designed as a shared path for walkers, cyclists and runners.
Are there interpretation panels?
Six cultural interpretation panels developed with mana whenua are located along the route.
Is the trail part of Te Araroa?
Yes, it forms the southern section of the Te Araroa Trail.
Where can I access the trail?
Main access points include areas near Stead Street Wharf in Invercargill, Greenpoint, and Bluff.
Are dogs allowed?
Check current local regulations with Environment Southland or Invercargill City Council before bringing dogs.
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