Bluff | Southland | New ZealandGuest post by Jennifer Branje | Southproud.co.nz

Bluff, the southernmost town on New Zealand's South Island, is steeped in maritime history. Gateway to Rakiura/Stewart Island, this beautiful seaside village offers excellent accommodation, fantastic dining & a trip back in time.

Bluff is rustic, and a little rusty too. Like all seaside industrial towns, salt spray has given many buildings the delightful patina so sought after in modern day architecture. Located at the very end (or the beginning) of New Zealand’s State Highway 1, Bluff is a hidden gem.

Settled as a whaling station in 1836, the small town of Bluff still relies on Neptune’s gifts as a means of income.

The Bluff Oyster is a delicacy coveted by the world’s best chefs and is exported en masse during the short oyster season, (March to August). The annual Bluff Oyster Festival is a ‘must do’ if you’re there at the time. Oyster boats navigate the treacherous Foveaux Strait to fill their quota’s which is at times, a death defying feat. Now days oyster boats are often met by helicopters which uplift their catch. Either way, the Bluff Oyster, nurtured in the deep, freezing waters of Foveaux Strait is a delectable morsel on all accounts.

The Titi, or Mutton Bird is another local delicacy gathered seasonally from nearby islands. These are definitely an acquired taste.

The entrance to Bluff is unremarkable. A line of neglected buildings that once clambered with productivity stand silent. A little further into the town a cleverly engineered ‘Bluff’ sculpture stands boldly announcing your arrival. This is an opportune spot to park if you want to experience one of the best short walks Southland has to offer.

The Foveaux Walkway is saturated with native flora and fauna. Expansive views from some parts of the track are truly spectacular and make for excellent photo op’s. There are several routes to choose from, all require robust footwear. 

Venturing along the main street, the vibrant street art is well worth taking a closer look at. Depicting the history of Bluff and its fortunes (the misfortunes of some), these colourful and cleverly placed art works tell of the journeys of whalers and other sea fairing industries.

The Bluff Maritime Museum houses an extensive collection of information and some nautical memorabilia. Outside you’ll find the ‘Monica’, rigged as though ready to harvest oysters again, propped up on land for all to board. Bluff has a proud maritime history and still has a fully operational international port.  A stroll along the marina is picturesque and evokes respect for the local fishing industry. Here’s where you’ll also find transport links to Stewart Island.

A visit to the local information hub is a truly artisan experience. Quirky to say the least, it’s a mine of local information with joyful, friendly folk available to help you learn and explore. Stay a while and tinkle the ivories on their resident piano or check out some of their artefacts.  Truly unique!

Bluff has plenty of accommodation to suit all requirements, convenience stores, quaint seaside hotels and art galleries. A drive to the very end of the road will bring you to Stirling Point and one of New Zealand’s most photographed sign posts. The magnificent views of Foveaux Strait and beyond remind you that you are at lands’ end…… next stop, Antarctica!

Overlooking Stirling Point and the incredible Foveaux Strait you’ll find Oyster Cove Restaurant & Bar. Boasting cuisine as sublime as the unimpeded views, the professional and friendly staff make dining at Oyster Cove an indulgent treat. Enjoy a meal as you watch dolphins frolicking in the sea below while the sun goes down. Locally sourced produce, artisan beers and great Kiwi wines ensure you are tasting authentic New Zealand.

Before you leave Bluff, be sure to take a walk or drive up the iconic Bluff Hill and view the district from on high. It can be a little windy up there so be prepared. A destination for many a hardy cyclist, the Bluff Hill Climb is an arduous challenge in the Tour of Southland Cycle Race. 

Bluff is old-world, slightly industrial and steeped in both maritime and Maori history.

Lands End Boutique Hotel offers well appointed rooms right next to Oyster Cove Restaurant. Both have exceptional views and offer fabulous Kiwi hospitality.

To me, Bluff is a bit underrated. With all it's beautiful walks, views, great dining and accommodation options, its well worthy of a day trip to explore.