Welcome to Invercargill, New Zealand’s southernmost city, a place with rich natural beauty on its doorstep and bags of old-world charm, all waiting to be explored.
Invercargill has plenty to keep visitors occupied, with an excellent range of shops and a selection of lively bars and restaurants. The city is home to an eclectic mix of Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco heritage buildings, all of which give the city a charming old-world character.
Just mere minutes from the city centre there is a vast array of coastal landscapes for visitors to explore, from the long coastal highway of Oreti Beach, to the native wonders of Waituna Wetlands and Omaui, or the boardwalk on the estuary and heritage wharfs. Invercargill is guaranteed to keep you entertained and excited.
Learn About Life in the Fast Lane
Invercargill is known as a place that takes a keen interest in anything with wheels. One of its most notable residents was the late, great, Burt Munro, a man famous for his under-1000cc motorcycle world record, which he set in 1976.
Munro is somewhat of a folk hero in his hometown, and his legacy inspired the 2013 film The World’s Fastest Indian, which was partially filmed in Invercargill. Today, his story lives on in museums around the town.
Classic Motorcycle Mecca is a must-see for motorcycle enthusiasts, and contains an impressive collection of old, new, and rare motorbikes. After, head for Bill Richardson Transport World, a fascinating, well-loved private collection of trucks and cars. Finally, make your way to E Hayes and Sons. This inconspicuous spot may look like just a hardware store, but it is in fact home to Burt Munro’s famous, record-breaking bike, which is on display for all to see.
Eat and Drink to Your Heart’s Content
Invercargill has plenty for food and drink enthusiasts. For cheese aficionados, head for Blue River Dairy. Here amid the rolling hills and verdant green pastures you’ll find a sheep milk cafe producing exquisite cheeses that will tantalise your tastebuds and capture your heart.
For most travellers, it wouldn’t really be a holiday if cold beer wasn’t involved. Luckily, Invercargill Brewery, which is New Zealand’s southernmost craft brewery, is on hand to deliver the goods. Here you can sample an array of classic beers, as well as some experimental brews. There are also tours available for those keen to learn a little more about the brewing process.
Take a Scenic Drive
Invercargill is located on the Southern Scenic Route, a tourist highway that links Queenstown to Dunedin. The highway was designed to show the beauty of southern New Zealand, and travels through various towns, including Invercargill. While you’re in town, why not take time and set off further afield to explore more of New Zealand’s iconic beauty.
