Along the Coast
You cannot live in Southland and not be affected by the sea. This is the most southerly and westerly part of New Zealand. The sea shapes the land itself, it has played a central role in human history, and it continues to dominate today: the weather, the ecology, the economy, transport systems, recreation and culture – all are bound up in the sea.
The Southland coastline is 3,400km long, the longest of any region in New Zealand, and one seventh of the New Zealand total. It extends from Fiordland in the west (Awarua Point) round the south coast to the Catlins in the east (Waiparau Head) and includes the coast of Stewart Island/Rakiura and islands nearby. Southland’s coastal waters lie in the Tasman Sea, Foveaux Strait and the Pacific Ocean.
People in Southland have had to shape themselves to their local environment, especially to the climate. As trees have learned on this coast, there's no way to stand against a Foveaux gale. And you always need to make the most of a good day.
Learn more about our role with cruise ships, boating rules and the rules of navigational safety in Southland, and register your intention to take your moored vessel into Fiordland. By registering you will help us to keep marine pests out of this sensitive marine environment.
We monitor bathing water quality at both marine and freshwater bathing sites over summer each year. Find out the latest results here.
Environment Southland is the brand name of Southland Regional Council.