Hokonui Hidden Hot Spots Top 10

Chitty on Hokonui Breakfast with the Gore and Southland District councils have been on the hunt for the best local gems to visit this summer.  

We took your nominations and put them to a vote and our TOP 10 spots have been revealed... 

McLean Falls is a stunning 22-metre waterfall in the Catlins region of New Zealand’s South Island. Located near the town of Owaka, the falls can be reached via a 20-30 minute walk through lush rainforest, offering a peaceful and scenic experience. The falls have two main drops, surrounded by dense vegetation, making it a great spot for photography. 

The walk to the falls is part of the Southern Scenic Route, which also takes you through the Catlins' beautiful landscapes. The area is known for its biodiversity, with opportunities to spot wildlife like seals and dolphins. The best time to visit is in spring or summer when the weather is milder. 

East Peak is nestled among the Hokonuis and offers some of the best 360-degree views Gore has on offer. There are three different tracks which all take you to the summit, with each making for a roughly 6km loop track through native bush and across farmland. The effort it takes to get there makes the views even more enjoyable.   

Dolamore Park is a scenic park located near Gore in the South Island of New Zealand. It's known for its tranquil atmosphere, native bush, and walking tracks. The park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including short walks, picnicking, and birdwatching. One of the highlights is the Tussock Track, which provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Dolamore Park is a great spot for nature lovers looking for a peaceful escape close to Gore. 

Curio Bay is a beautiful bay in the Catlins region of New Zealand's South Island. It’s known for its stunning coastline, golden sands, and as a great spot to see hoiho (yellow-eyed penguins) and other wildlife. The bay is also famous for its ancient, petrified forest, which is visible at low tide. Curio Bay is a popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those wanting to experience a tranquil, scenic location. 

Riverton is a small coastal town located on the southern coast of New Zealand's South Island, about 30km from Invercargill. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, it offers beautiful beaches, ideal for swimming, surfing, and fishing. Riverton has a rich history, with Māori and early European settlements, and is a great spot for exploring nearby nature reserves and enjoying local cafes and galleries. It's a peaceful getaway with a charming small-town feel. 

Gore Gardens is a beautiful public garden located in Gore, South Island, New Zealand. Known for its well-maintained grounds, it features a variety of plants, flowers, and sculptures. The gardens are a peaceful spot to stroll, relax, and enjoy the seasonal blooms. They are particularly famous for their vibrant rose garden, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. 

Tucked away in a secluded grassland just off the beaten track, Piano Flat is a destination locals would rather keep a secret. Steeped in rich history from the days of the gold rush and early Māori settlers, this gem whispers stories of hunting emus, chasing eels, and uncovering fortunes. 

Piano Flat takes its name from Harry Selig, a local orchestra pianist who is said to have been the first to discover gold on this flat. The area’s main water race, built in the late 1800s for gold sluicing, remains Southland’s only operational water race today, supplying water to the camping and picnic grounds as well as a few private cribs. Imagine wandering through lush landscapes steeped in history, with the race’s gentle gurgle reminding you of its golden past.  

For nearly a century, families have been drawn to Piano Flat’s pristine charm. Since the Bunting family first camped here in 1928, it’s become a beloved spot for family adventures. Whether you’re dreaming of casting a line in the perfect fishing spot, exploring untouched hunting grounds, or simply soaking up the serenity of nature, Piano Flat offers a slice of paradise that feels worlds away. 

Pack your gear, discover the stories hidden in its hills, and make Piano Flat the backdrop for your next adventure.

Pounawea is a small coastal settlement located in the Catlins region of New Zealand’s South Island. It lies near the entrance to the Catlins River, offering scenic views of the surrounding waterways and forests. The area is known for its peaceful atmosphere, birdwatching opportunities, and nearby beaches. It’s a great spot for kayaking, fishing, and enjoying nature, with easy access to attractions like Nugget Point and McLean Falls. 

As you stroll along the scenic loop track at Dolamore Park, keep an eye on the rocks across the stream to the right, where the glow worms begin to shimmer and light up the dark, creating a magical view. Surrounded by native bush, this peaceful, natural setting adds to the charm of the experience. For the best display, visit after dark when the glow worms are most striking. It’s a must-see spectacle that captures the wonder of nature in one of Gore’s most serene spots. 

Monkey Island in the South Island of New Zealand is a small, rocky islet located just off the coast near Riverton. It's part of the Southland district and is accessible by boat or kayak. The island is a popular spot for birdwatching, with seabirds often seen nesting there. Its name is a bit of a mystery, but it's a picturesque spot known for its rugged beauty and peaceful surroundings, perfect for a quick escape into nature.