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Where is Slope Point?
Slope Point is located in the Catlins, Southland, about 90 minutes from Invercargill and a little over three hours from Dunedin. Unlike Bluff, which is often mistaken for the southernmost point, Slope Point is the actual furthest south you can go on the South Island — although you’ll need to park up and walk to get there.
The gravel access road is closed to vehicles, so you’ll leave your campervan in a small parking area and take a 20-minute walk across farmland to reach the famous Slope Point signpost. Once there, you’ll find windswept cliffs, incredible ocean views, and the realisation that the next landmass in front of you is Antarctica.
What is the southernmost point in New Zealand?
While Slope Point is the southernmost point of the South Island, the actual southernmost point of New Zealand is Jacquemart Island, part of the subantarctic Campbell Islands, about 600 km south of Bluff. However, for places accessible to travellers, Slope Point is as far south as you can drive on the South Island — making it a must-visit for those keen to reach the end of the road in New Zealand.
Things to do in Slope Point
Slope Point is the definition of wild and windy New Zealand, with dramatic coastal cliffs, endless ocean views, and a raw, untamed atmosphere. While it’s not packed with attractions, it’s a must-visit for those who love remote and rugged landscapes. As one of the most isolated New Zealand scenic spots, it offers a true sense of adventure at the edge of the world.
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Get a selfie with the Slope Point signpost – The main reason most people visit. This yellow sign marks the southernmost point of the South Island, with distances to the Equator and the South Pole.
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Take in the views – Standing on the cliffs, you’ll see nothing but endless ocean, with crashing waves and dramatic skies that change by the minute.
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Feel the power of the wind – The extreme coastal winds have shaped the local trees into twisted, wind-sculpted formations, making for an incredible sight.
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Explore nearby Curio Bay – Just a short drive away, Curio Bay offers a petrified forest, rare yellow-eyed penguins, and Hector’s dolphins playing in the surf.
How to get to Slope Point
Whether you're coming from Invercargill, Dunedin, Curio Bay, or Queenstown, the drive takes you through some of the most scenic and untouched parts of New Zealand’s South Island.
From Invercargill (1 hr 30 min, 105 km)
Head east on State Highway 1 (SH1) toward Tokanui, then follow signs for the Slope Point turnoff. The final stretch is a gravel road, leading to a small parking area. From there, it's a short walk across private farmland to the famous signpost marking the southernmost point of the South Island.
From Dunedin (2 hr 45 min, 190 km)
Take SH1 south toward Balclutha, then follow the Southern Scenic Route through the Catlins. This drive is packed with incredible stops, including Nugget Point Lighthouse, Purakaunui Falls, and Curio Bay. After passing through Waikawa, look for signs directing you to Slope Point.
From Curio Bay (20 min, 20 km)
A short and easy drive west via the Southern Scenic Route. The turnoff is well-signposted, and Slope Point is 24 km from Waikawa, a small coastal settlement. This makes it an easy side trip if you're already exploring Curio Bay's petrified forest or watching for yellow-eyed penguins.
From Queenstown (3 hr 45 min, 255 km)
Travel south on SH6 to Invercargill, then follow the Invercargill-to-Slope Point route via SH1 and local roads. This is the longest option, but it’s well worth the journey if you’re keen to see New Zealand’s southernmost accessible point.
Since Slope Point is only accessible on foot, be prepared for a short but scenic walk from the parking area. The track is mostly flat, but it can get muddy and windy, so sturdy shoes and a warm jacket are a good idea!
When is the best time to visit Slope Point?
Slope Point is an incredible year-round destination, but your experience will vary depending on the season. The exposed coastline means it can be windy at any time of year, so layering up is always a good idea. The best time to visit depends on whether you prefer milder weather, dramatic coastal views, or fewer crowds.
Seasonal highlights:
Summer (December–February) – The warmest time to visit (16–20°C), with long daylight hours and generally calmer weather. The gravel road and walking track are drier, making access easier.
Autumn (March–May) – A quieter time with cooler temperatures (8–16°C) and fewer visitors. The changing light makes for some stunning coastal photography.
Winter (June–August) – A dramatic time to visit, with cold temperatures (0–10°C), powerful winds, and moody skies. A great option if you want to experience Slope Point in its wildest form.
Spring (September–November) – A mix of cool and mild weather (8–17°C) with fresh greenery and fewer crowds. It’s a great time to combine Slope Point with a visit to Curio Bay, as wildlife becomes more active.
No matter when you go, mornings and late afternoons offer the most striking views, with golden light casting long shadows over the cliffs.
Weather in Slope Point
Slope Point has a cool, temperate coastal climate, with strong winds and sudden weather changes due to its exposed location. Rain is possible year-round, and even on sunny days, the wind can make it feel much colder than the actual temperature.
Average summer temperatures: 16–20°C (warmest and driest season)
Average winter temperatures: 0–10°C (cold, with occasional frosts and strong winds)
Rainfall: Evenly spread throughout the year, with higher chances of rain in winter and spring
Wind: Consistently strong, often shaping the landscape — including the famous wind-sculpted trees near Slope Point
Because of the unpredictable weather, it’s always a good idea to bring layers, a windproof jacket, and sturdy shoes — especially if you’re visiting in the colder months. Whether you get blue skies or dramatic storm clouds, the raw beauty of Slope Point never disappoints.
Camping grounds near Slope Point
While there are no campgrounds at Slope Point itself, there are some excellent options nearby for campervan travellers exploring the Catlins in New Zealand. Whether you’re after a fully serviced holiday park or a quiet DOC campsite, there’s something to suit every style of travel.
Curio Bay Campground
Located just 20 minutes from Slope Point, Curio Bay Campground is one of the best spots to stay in the area. It offers powered and non-powered sites, basic kitchen and bathroom facilities, and incredible views over the bay. Plus, you’ll be right next to the famous Curio Bay petrified forest and have the chance to spot yellow-eyed penguins and Hector’s dolphins.
Whistling Frog Resort & Holiday Park
About 30 minutes from Slope Point, the Whistling Frog Resort & Holiday Park, near Catlins Coastal Heritage Trail, has powered campervan sites, modern facilities, and an on-site café. It’s a great choice if you want a few more comforts while still being close to the wild beauty of Slope Point and the Catlins.
Weirs Beach Reserve (DOC Campsite)
For a more remote, off-the-grid experience, Weirs Beach Reserve DOC Campsite is a basic, first-come, first-served site located 40 minutes from Slope Point. It’s right by the beach and perfect for self-contained campervans looking for a quiet, scenic place to park overnight.