Invercargill

Invercargill, New Zealand’s southernmost city, is a gateway to the wild Catlins and Stewart Island. With its broad streets, Victorian architecture, and a palpable sense of frontier spirit, this is a place where the pace of life slows down and the landscapes take centre stage. The city’s quirky attractions – think vintage car museums and a giant liquorice allsort – add a dose of whimsy to your journey south.

Highlights & What to See

• Bill Richardson Transport World – a jaw-dropping private collection of vintage cars, trucks, and petrol memorabilia that petrolheads will adore.
• Queens Park – a sprawling green oasis with a Japanese garden, rose garden, and a small zoo; perfect for a picnic or a lazy afternoon stroll.
• Invercargill Water Tower – climb this iconic 1908 tower for panoramic views over the city and across the plains to the sea.
• Oreti Beach – a vast, windswept beach ideal for long walks, horse riding, or watching the sunset over the Tasman Sea.
• Classic Motorcycle Mecca – a gleaming collection of over 300 motorcycles from the early 20th century to modern day, housed in a stunning modern building.
• Stewart Island – just a short flight or ferry away, this pristine island offers world-class kiwi spotting, hiking, and a true off-the-grid experience.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers spend one full day exploring Invercargill’s museums and parks, then add an extra day for a trip to Stewart Island or the Catlins. If you’re passing through on a road trip, a half-day is enough to see the main sights – but you’ll wish you had longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• The Catlins – a rugged coastal stretch with waterfalls, petrified forests, and the rare yellow-eyed penguin; allow at least two days.
• Bluff – just 20 minutes south, famous for its oysters, the Bluff Maritime Museum, and the start of the Southern Scenic Route.
• Fiordland National Park – a 2.5-hour drive away, this World Heritage area offers Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, and epic hiking trails.
• Queenstown – 2.5 hours north, the adventure capital of New Zealand is a perfect contrast to Invercargill’s calm.
• Dunedin – 2.5 hours northeast, with its Scottish heritage, wildlife on the Otago Peninsula, and the stunning Larnach Castle.

Please check official sources for current details.