Bluff, 20 minutes drive (27kms) from Invercargill, is the oldest European town in New Zealand, being established in 1824 by James Spencer. It is set at the base of Bluff Hill, with an excellent harbour and a rich history of whaling, sealing and shipping. Captain William Stirling purchased and cultivated the land around Stirling Point (where it got its name) to service whaling bases. Bluff has long summer days with friendly locals and a warm atmosphere. Bluff or Motupohue, has gone through a number of name changes in the past. The Europeans originally called it 'The Mount' and later 'Old Mans Bluff' ('old man' in Celtic means High Rock). It was then shortened to 'The Bluff' and in 1856 was renamed Campbelltown. It officially became known as Bluff on March 1, 1917. The Maori name, Motupohue means Island of Convolvulus, as Bluff looks like an island from the sea and there are many white convolvulus flowering here. Bluff has plenty of accommodation, restaurants, dairies and service stations and is easily reached from Invercargill, where a regular bus service operates. Accommodation is in the form of a campground, backpackers, hotels and bed and breakfasts. Bluff is also the gateway to Stewart Island, where a regular catamaran service and charter boats are available from Bluff Harbour. Charter boats can take tourists to great fishing, diving and sightseeing spots that only the locals know best.