Making the most of Bluff
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Bluff is a small town at the southern tip of New Zealand’s South Island. It is a gateway to the country’s southern regions and an entry point for travellers continuing to Stewart Island.
Ships berth in an industrialised area, 1.5 km from the town.
At the foot of New Zealand’s South Island in Southland province, Bluff is known as the “Gateway to Stewart Island”.
State highway 1 begins at Bluff’s Stirling Point. Bluff is New Zealand’s oldest European-settled town and has a particularly colourful history, parts of which are covered by the local Maritime Museum.
The extinct volcanic cone of Bluff Hill dominates the town and gives some protection from prevailing westerly winds. A world-class shoreline walk through native bush climbs to this point. The town is named after the bluff, called Old Man’s Bluff or Old Man Bluff by early whalers. Across the channel is Tiwai Point, where New Zealand’s only aluminum smelter and its wharf are located.
Getting around
Bluff oysters are reputedly the world’s best. An annual oyster festival is held here, and the Bluff Maritime Museum has displays on oystering, whaling and shipwrecks.
Visit Stirling Point, where State Highway 1 begins; the panoramic viewing platform atop Bluff Hill; and the world-class shore walk through native bush to the lookout.
Nearby places
Ferries leave Bluff for Stewart Island, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. A day trip can include bird watching, hiking or simply enjoying the island’s pristine beaches.
Invercargill is 30 km away from Bluff by road.
Food and shopping
Bluff is famous for oysters, a delicacy in New Zealand. During the oyster season, usually March to August, take the chance to sample fresh Bluff oysters at local eateries.
Money
New Zealand uses the New Zealand dollar. Some traders, particularly in tourist destinations, accept foreign currency. The approximate conversion from US dollars to NZ dollars is US$1=NZD1.30.
Automatic teller machines (ATMs), commonly called “the hole in the wall” locally, can be found in almost every town.
Staying connected
New Zealand’s official languages are English, Maori and New Zealand Sign Language. English is universal and uses Commonwealth (“British”) spelling.
For emergencies in New Zealand, call 111.
Public Internet access is available at many libraries, generally for a charge.