Invercargill
The City of Water and Light has a population of 53,000, and buzzes with the prosperity of a thriving economy, the vivacity of student life and a history that marries the strong Maori and Celtic influence that pioneered the province centuries ago. Like the rest of the region, its unique culture and spirit are set in the most beautiful of surrounds.
Invercargill Water Tower
The 40m Invercargill Water Tower was built in 1889 to pressurise the cities water supply.
The Water Tower combines utility with adornment and is a prime example of Victorian architecture.
Located in Doon Street, Invercargill while public admission to the tower was stopped in mid-February 2012 – at least temporarily – the tower is still a fantastic piece of Invercargill and Southland history.
Velodrome
Invercargill is home to New Zealand’s only indoor velodrome, which means the city hosts some of the world’s most elite cyclists and some major cycling events including the UCI Junior Track World Championships in 2012 and the Tour of Southland annually.
Southland Museum & Art Gallery
The distinctive pyramid shaped Southland Museum and Art Gallery is located in central Invercargill and features a wide range of exhibits and activities that will interest any visitor to the scenic South.
Other facilities include; iSite visitor information centre, Momento gift shop, Pyramid on Gala Cafe, AV theatre, internet access, function facilities and an education centre.
Bill Richardson Transport World
Create memories at Bill Richardson Transport World. A world-class display full of quirky flourishes, Bill Richardson Transport World has something for everyone. Discover more than 300 vehicles including retro Kombis, Henry Ford letter cars, stunning 1930s V8s and 200 vintage petrol pumps. Not into wheels? Never fear. Check out the wearable arts, movie theatre, children’s play zones including a LEGO room, vintage vaults and themed bathrooms that have to be seen to be believed. Allow plenty of time - there is a lot to see.
To find out more about Bill Richardson Transport World, visit:www.transportworld.nz
Classic Motorcycle Mecca
Home to more than 300 vintage motorcycles, Classic Motorcycle Mecca transports guests to yesteryear. The Southern Hemisphere’s leading motorcycle museum boasts a dazzling collection of American, British, European and Japanese motorcycles dating as far back as 1902, as well as tributes to icons like Burt Munro and Ivan Mauger. Motocross, speedway, and the ‘George Begg Bunker’ – a staggering display of race cars built by engineer George Begg, that celebrates a golden age in Kiwi motorsport – round out a collection that will turn newbies into aficionados.
To find out more about Classic Motorcycle Mecca, visit www.motorcyclemecca.nz
Queens Park Gardens
Queens Park, located in the heart of the city, houses tuatara and the Southland Museum and Art Gallery. With botanical wonders, a water playground for children and a golf course, this park is a local favourite.
Donovan Park is home to different animal species including deer and birdlife, whilst Andersons Park is 24 hectares of beautiful landscapes and gardens with an impressive Georgian style residence as the focal point. For information on private gardens to visit go to the Southland Gardens website
Burt Munro
Another Invercargill favourite and international legend is Burt Munro. In 1967 Burt set a world land speed record on an Indian motorcycle he rebuilt in his back yard shed.
Burt’s journey was documented in the 2005 film, The World’s Fastest Indian. Several of Burt's bikes can be seen at E Hayes & Sons Hardware Store on Dee Street.
Bluff Oyster Festival
As Southland’s deep water port, Bluff is home to a large fishing fleet and an array of seafood including crayfish, blue cod and the world famous and delectable Bluff oyster.
Bluff Oysters are harvested from March until August or until the allocated annual quota is achieved. Southland’s premier event, the Bluff Oyster and Food Festival is held annually during oyster season and attracts huge numbers of locals and visitors alike.
With next years date of the 24th May 2014 confirmed it's time to get craking and book for the Bluff Oyster & Food Festival.
Dig This Invercargill
Are you ready to leap outside of your comfort zone and get your blood pumping? Dig This is grunty fun for everyone. Fully instructed, you don't need any experience - just a willingness to give it a go. Get behind the controls and master diggers, bulldozers and skid steers at New Zealand’s only heavy machinery playground. Fully instructed and boasting a variety of thrilling experiences to choose from, Dig This Invercargill is suitable for ages five to 105. Tick it off your bucket list today!
To find out more about Dig This Invercargill, visit www.digthisinvercargill.nz
