Kuramea is one of a number of lakes or estuaries fed by the Catlins River. The Catlins River flows through an area known as The Catlins, located along the southern coastline of the South Island. These waterways are renowned for an abundance of birdlife, including wading birds such as oystercatchers, herons and terns.

The Catlins River eventually flows to the coast where the Foveaux Strait provides ideal feeding grounds for fur seals, sea lions, dolphins and the rare, yellow-eyed penguin. The Southern Scenic Route is a popular drive that takes you through this diverse landscape of rural, coastal and bush landscapes.