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Just Relax

The Catlins are usually not normally a destination for foreigners. This is mostly because other locations (for whatever reason) end up being highlighted as the place to visit. However, when planning a trip to New Zealand, the Catlins should not be ignored. We loved our stay in the Calins. It was perfect for some really wonderful R-and-R next to the beach.

Unlike most of the other locations that we have stayed in New Zealand, the Catlins is more like a region than a city. This location is in the most Southeastern region of the country. As part of this location there are several hikes, several waterfalls, a couple lighthouses, various wildlife sightings, and surfing.

Where We Stayed (Curio Bay Salthouse):

The Curio Bay Salthouse was easily the most relaxing and our favorite stay during our trip to New Zealand. There are two options at The Salthouse. One is the self contained studio which sleeps up to four people. However, we stayed at the 2-bedroom apartment. This apartment was everything we needed it to be and more. The 2-bedroom apartment had a large walk-in pantry (with a counter), it had a full kitchen, panoramic windows and balcony. In fact, the Curio Bay Salthouse was so well furnished, that I would highly recommend it to any family or digital nomad for an extended stay.

The one thing about our stay at Curio Bay Salthouse that Matt and I did not realize (or plan for), is the remoteness of the Catlins region. There is no grocery store in the region. Matt and I were lucky, in that we did happen to have enough food to get us through two nights in the Catlins. But as a whole, the Catlins is a food desert. As you are planning on visiting the Catlins, make sure that you plan to stock up on food prior to your stay. Also, make sure that you book accommodations that have a full kitchen.

Where to Eat (Niagara Falls Cafe):

There are places to eat in the Catlins. However, those places are few and far in-between. Then we you consider that the Catlins is a region, these eateries are very spread out. It is also worth noting that there are grocery stores, again these locations are very spread out. Perfect example, we stayed at Curio Bay Salthouse. The nearest “grocery store” (I use that term loosely) was the Papatowai Country Store (a 42 minute drive along the coast).

During our stay at at Curio Bay, there was only one place we at out at. Niagara Falls Cafe was suggested by (literally) everyone that we met. We were also told that it was a “10 minute drive” from Curio Bay. The drive felt more like 20 minutes. However, that 20 minute drive was absolutely worth it. Niagara Falls Cafe is perhaps the most adorable cafe we have ever seen. It is located in the cutest repurposed school(?) building. The food (and coffee) was wonderful. They sell art, photography, and useful crafts all produced by locals. Niagara Falls Cafe also plays host to a Bluegrass Festival on their lawn.