Fortrose is a locality on the southernmost coast of the South Island of New Zealand in the Southland region.

[1] It is situated on Toetoes Bay at the mouth of the Mataura River, and is on the far western edge of the Catlins.

Nearby settlements include Otara to the southeast, Pukewao and Tokanui to the northeast, and Titiroa and Waimahaka to the north.

Its location at the Mataura's mouth meant it developed as a port to service the local region, and in 1875, a 200-foot (61 m) long jetty was built.

[3] In the 19th century, goods such as grain, logs, and wool were significant in the local economy.