Hiking

Estuary Walkway. Just 2½ km (1½ miles) south of Invercargill, this walking/cycling loop track where the Waihopai River meets the New River estuary traverses what was once a landfill site. The area has benefited from a community regeneration project and now provides a rich habitat for wildlife and people to enjoy. The walkway is accessible from the Stead Street Wharf car park. Stead St, Invercargill, Southland.

Sandy Point. This good walking spot can be reached by taking a left after crossing the Oreti River on the way out to Oreti Beach. A 13-km (8-mile) network of easygoing trails covers the riverbanks, estuary, and the bush. A leaflet detailing the paths is available from the Invercargill Visitor Information Centre. Sandy Point Rd, Invercargill, Southland, 9810.

Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track. On the western side of the Southern Scenic Route, this challenging, circular three-day, two-night walk combines beach, bush, and subalpine environments in its 53 km (33 miles). The track starts near Tuatapere, about two hours' drive west of Invercargill and right on the edge of the Fiordland National Park. It's no amble; you'll spend about nine hours walking each day, but two good huts along the route each sleep about 40 people. You'll need to buy hut tickets in advance. 31 Orawia Rd., Tuatapere, Invercargill, Southland, 9620. 03/226–6739; www.humpridgetrack.co.nz.