New Zealand Walk: Three coastal walks at the bott om of the South Island

Stirling Point at Bluff marks the southern end of State Highway 1, which runs the length of New Zealand.

The point is memorable for the large signpost displaying distances to major cities in the world - a photograph of this signpost is a must for your Bluff experience.

You can access the Foveaux Walkway from Stirling Point. The first section of the walkway, from Stirling Point to Lookout Point/Foveaux Memorial takes 50 - 60 minutes one way and follows the coast, providing spectacular ocean views.

It has an easy grade and wellcompacted surface making it suitable for all ages. In winter you may spot New Zealand fur seals or Southern right whales.

There are stunning views of Foveaux Strait and Stewart Island, as well as wavebeaten rocks and beaches.

The Foveaux Walkway consists of two separate but connected trails on Bluff Hill peninsula. Both traverse a wide variety of vegetation, including native bush

(with a variety of native birds), coastal scrub and privately owned farmland.

From the end of the Foveaux Walkway Lookout Point/Foveaux Memorial you could return to Sterling Point via the steep Millennium Track up to the top of Bluff Hill (allow 55 minutes) where you will be rewarded with superb panoramic views across Foveaux Strait to Stewart Island and from there join the Topuni Track.

This track is an undulating downhill track that passes through light forest taking walkers from the top of Bluff Hill to the Stirling Point carpark. Allow 35 minutes downhill.

Above: On the Foveaux Walkway. Inser: the visitors book for those who have completed the Te Araroa Trail. Below The Oyster Cove Restaurant and Bar on hill- a great place for a drink,etc at the bottom of the South Island.

Above top: Looking out from Bluff Hill to the port of Bluff. Left: The signpost at Bluff. Above: This silver chain matches up with a rusty red one on Stewart Island. Below right: The lighthouse at Stirling Point.