Slow Down and Enjoy "The World's Fastest Indian" Country

Yes, the dramatically beautiful cinematography of films such as this take our breath away. But what of the real landscapes that inspire such reaction?

If it’s a holiday that will remain with you far longer than any movie, visit Southland - the main location for "The World’s Fastest Indian".

Southland motorcycle legend Burt Munro was a man who held on to the dreams of his youth and ultimately realized them. Portrayed by Anthony Hopkins, his story of dream fulfillment and hard work is told by NZ director Roger Donaldson in "The World’s Fastest Indian".

A 26 kilometre stretch of sand and surf is patiently waiting for you at the bottom of the South Island.
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And no wonder they feel this way - they live in a lush paradise of beautiful green landscapes, abundant wildlife like native kiwi and penguins and dramatic sweeping sand beaches - Southland even boasts a Jurassic petrified rainforest at Curio Bay that’s 160 million years old.

First on your list of sights to discover for yourself must be spectacular Oreti Beach where the scenes of Burt’s motorcycle test-drives were filmed. This is a stunning, wide arc of white sand overlooking the sparkling waters of Foveaux Strait between the South Island and Stewart Island. Here also is the harbour town of Bluff, home of the annual Bluff Oyster & Southland Seafood Festival, a feast of gastronomic decadence.

The Catlins Coast is a natural must-see. Drive around and stop to explore the coves, beaches and waterfalls and your adventures will bring you close to the local shore and sea birds, seals and even sea elephants basking on the rocks.

	The Catlins Coast is a 'must see' when in Southland
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Other scenic highlights in the Southland region include a visit to Stewart Island and the ecologically majestic Rakiura National Park where you can absorb the glorious peace and tranquility of a truly unspoiled natural bird and wildlife habitat.

The Humpridge Track begins at Tuatapere and takes you on an unforgettable 3-day dream journey through hundred thousand year old forests, deep gorges, silent lakes, wild coastal coves and even monoliths of sandstone.

As well as this amazing walking track there are many other uniquely Southland activities you can enjoy. See kiwis in their natural habitat on Stewart Island, hear the dramatic symphony of birdsong at the Ulva Island sanctuary, take a boat trip to join the tiny Hector’s Dolphins in the ocean waters off the Catlins.

While summer is the time for strolls on sandy beaches, Southland’s crisp clear winters have a magic all of their own. Take the Arctic Snowcat and travel the same trail used by the goldminers of last century. Or go cross-country skiing, even exhilarating heli-skiing near Nokomai Station.

The Rakiura Track on Stewart Island
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While Burt Munro’s Southland is undoubtedly one of natural splendour, it also boasts a flourishing arts and culture ethic with many renowned local artists and performers.

Independent travellers with a wandering spirit will find excellent budget backpacking accommodation in Southland. Or at the other end of the scale, blissful luxury and gourmet dining at lodges such as The Lodge at Tikana.

Homestays and farmstays, including sheep stations, are especially popular in this area and allow you to really feel part of the essence of Southland. There are many Qualmark-rated ‘excellent’ 4-star motels, perfect for complete relaxation after a hard day’s fun.

So take it slow, take your time, be determined and live your dream of a unique holiday exploring the unique richness of Southland so well reflected on film by "The World’s Fastest Indian".

Get straight to the heart of Southland on a daily direct flight to Invercargill from Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch. Or fly to Queenstown and drive just 2½ hours south-east.