Last updated July 2026
Discover the raw, untamed beauty of Slope Point, the southernmost mainland point on New Zealand’s South Island. Nestled in the remote Catlins region, this iconic spot offers breathtaking coastal views, windswept landscapes, and a unique connection to nature’s power. Whether you are a traveller seeking adventure or a photographer chasing dramatic scenery, Slope Point promises an unforgettable experience at the edge of the world. The site lies on private farmland and requires a short walk to reach the cliff edge and signpost.
Practical Information
| Location | Catlins region, Southland, 24 km south of Waikawa and 70 km east of Invercargill |
| Coordinates | Approximately 46.67°S, 169.00°E |
| Access | Gravel road to car park, then 20-minute walk across private farmland following yellow markers |
| Restrictions | No public access during lambing season (September to November) |
| Facilities | None on site; come prepared with water, food and sturdy footwear |
| Best time to visit | Outside lambing season; check weather and farm conditions |
About Slope Point
Slope Point is the southernmost point of New Zealand’s South Island mainland. It sits near the southwestern edge of Toetoes Bay in the Catlins, where rugged cliffs drop to the sea. The location offers visitors a tangible sense of standing at the southern edge of inhabited New Zealand, with the next significant landmass far to the south.
The site is reached by a straightforward walk across private sheep farmland. Yellow markers guide visitors along the track to the cliff edge and the well-known AA signpost. The signpost displays distances to the Equator and the South Pole, providing a popular photo opportunity. A small solar-powered lighthouse also stands nearby.
The surrounding landscape features windswept trees bent northward by persistent southerly gales that travel across the Southern Ocean from Antarctica. These trees, originally planted as shelter belts, create a distinctive visual signature of the location. The exposed position means weather can change rapidly, and visitors should prepare for strong winds and cool temperatures year-round.
Accessing Slope Point
From Invercargill, drive east along State Highway 1 then follow signs toward Waikawa and the Catlins. The final approach uses a gravel road ending at a small parking area. From there, follow the marked track across farmland for approximately 20 minutes to reach the southernmost point. Park considerately and leave gates as found.
Public access is closed during lambing season from September to November to protect livestock. Always respect private property, stay on the marked path, and avoid cliff edges, which have no barriers. No toilets, water or other facilities are available, so plan accordingly.
Natural Features and Wildlife
The dramatic cliffs and rocky shoreline showcase ongoing coastal erosion. The windswept trees illustrate the power of the unrelenting Antarctic winds that shape the landscape. Visitors often spot sea lions along the coast, and Hector’s dolphins may be seen in the waters offshore. Native birds frequent the area, adding to the wildlife interest for photographers and nature enthusiasts.
Historical and Cultural Context
The broader Catlins and Southland region, known to Māori as Murihiku, carries a rich history of indigenous connections and later European settlement. The 1852 Murihiku land purchase from Ngāi Tahu influenced the area’s development. Slope Point remains a quiet, largely untouched site that reflects both natural forces and this layered heritage.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors describe the short walk across farmland as straightforward and rewarding, with the signpost and cliff views providing a memorable sense of reaching the southern edge of the South Island. Many note the strong winds and dramatic, windswept trees as highlights that make the location feel remote and powerful.
Reviewers frequently mention the need to check lambing season closures in advance and appreciate the lack of facilities as part of the authentic, untouched experience. Photographers highlight the unique trees and coastal scenery, while families note it works well as a quick stop on a Catlins day trip when weather cooperates.
Where to Learn More
Southland NZ: Official tourism listing with access details and regional context for Slope Point.
Catlins.org.nz: Local Catlins information on Slope Point access and nearby attractions.
Wikipedia: Coordinates, history and verified details on Slope Point as the southernmost South Island mainland point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Slope Point the southernmost point in New Zealand?
Slope Point is the southernmost point on the South Island mainland. Stewart Island / Rakiura lies further south.
How long is the walk to Slope Point?
The walk from the car park across private farmland takes about 20 minutes each way on a flat, marked track.
When is Slope Point closed?
Public access is restricted during lambing season from September to November.
Are there any facilities at Slope Point?
No facilities, toilets or water are available on site. Visitors must bring everything they need.
What wildlife might I see?
Sea lions, Hector’s dolphins and native birds are sometimes spotted along the coast.
Is the site suitable for children?
The walk is straightforward, but the exposed cliffs and lack of barriers require close supervision of children.
Can I visit on a day trip from Invercargill?
Yes, the drive takes roughly one hour each way, making it a feasible addition to a Catlins itinerary.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are not permitted because the track crosses private farmland with livestock.
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