Invercargill - Discovering New Zealand

Travelling to Invercargill

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Invercargill, a pretty good destination in New Zealand (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Invercargill and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Invercargill, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through New Zealand, here's everything to know about Invercargill for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Invercargill

Invercargill is a city located at the southernmost point of New Zealand's South Island. It is the southernmost city in New Zealand and one of the southernmost cities in the world. The city has a population of approximately 50,000 people and is known for its Victorian and Edwardian architecture, including some of the country's oldest buildings. It is also a gateway to the spectacular Fiordland National Park, and many people visit Invercargill for its access to various outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. Additionally, the city is home to a range of museums, art galleries, and cultural events throughout the year.

What to visit in Invercargill

Sure, here are some of the must-visit tourist attractions in Invercargill, New Zealand: 1. Queens Park: This expansive park is home to beautiful gardens, a golf course, a bird aviary, and an animal park. It's an ideal place for a picnic, a stroll, or a family day out.
2. E Hayes and Sons: This unique museum cum store showcases vintage motorcycles, cars, and other machines. The highlight is the Burt Munro exhibition, which documents the life and achievements of the local racing legend.
3. Bill Richardson Transport World: This museum houses an impressive collection of vintage cars, trucks, and other vehicles from all over the world. Visitors can also watch skilled craftsmen restore and repair vehicles in the workshop.
4. Classic Motorcycle Mecca: As the name suggests, this museum is dedicated entirely to motorcycles. It showcases over 300 classic and vintage motorcycles from all eras and countries.
5. St. Mary's Basilica: This stunning Catholic church boasts beautiful stained glass windows, statues, and art. Guided tours are available, and visitors are welcome to attend Mass.
6. The Water Tower: This iconic landmark offers amazing panoramic views of Invercargill and the surrounding countryside. Visitors can climb the winding staircase to the observation deck at the top.
7. The Civic Theatre: This beautifully restored Art Deco theatre hosts a variety of shows, from movies to live performances. It's a great place to appreciate Invercargill's history and culture.
8. Oreti Beach: This long, wide beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, fishing, and walking. It's also the site of many international land speed records, including Burt Munro's famous motorcycle records.
There's a lot to see and do in Invercargill, and these attractions are just a few of the highlights.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in New Zealand, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Invercargill.

When to go on holiday to Invercargill

The best time to go on holiday to Invercargill, New Zealand is during the summer months (December to February) when temperatures are warm and there is little rainfall. However, visitors should be aware that the weather in Invercargill can be unpredictable, and it is possible to experience four seasons in one day even during the summer months. If you prefer cooler temperatures and are interested in outdoor activities such as skiing or snowboarding, the winter months (June to August) can also be a great time to visit Invercargill as nearby ski resorts are easily accessible.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Invercargill

There are several ways to get to Invercargill: 1. By plane: You can fly to Invercargill Airport from other cities in New Zealand, such as Auckland, Wellington, or Christchurch. Airlines that operate flights to Invercargill include Air New Zealand, Jetstar, and Stewart Island Flights.
2. By bus: Intercity and Skip buses operate daily services to Invercargill from other cities in the South Island, such as Christchurch, Dunedin, and Queenstown.
3. By car: Invercargill is located on State Highway 1, which connects the city to other towns in the South Island. You can rent a car or camper van and drive to Invercargill from other cities in New Zealand.
4. By train: The Taieri Gorge Railway operates scenic train trips from Dunedin to Invercargill. This is a great way to see the stunning South Island scenery and arrive in Invercargill in style. I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Invercargill. Let me know if you need any further assistance!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Invercargill, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Invercargill

Invercargill, situated in the South Island of New Zealand, boasts a diverse culinary scene, reflecting the city's agricultural and coastal abundance. Here are some typical foods you should try when you visit Invercargill: 1. Bluff Oysters - These coveted oysters are harvested from the cold and pristine waters of the Foveaux Strait, located near Invercargill. They are renowned for their unique flavor and texture, and are considered a delicacy in New Zealand.
2. Cheese rolls - This simple but delicious snack consists of bread slices, spread with a mixture of grated cheese, onion soup mix, and evaporated milk, rolled up, and then baked until crispy and melted.
3. Southland Lamb - The region is famous for its delicious, succulent lamb, which is pasture-raised and grass-fed on the fertile lands of Southland. The lamb is usually roasted or grilled, and pairs perfectly with a variety of local vegetables and herbs.
4. Whitebait fritters - This classic New Zealand dish calls for tiny, translucent juvenile fish blended with flour, eggs, and various seasonings, then shallow-fried until golden. The result is a crispy and savory fritter that is loved by locals and tourists alike.
5. Paua (Abalone) - Paua is a type of abalone that is endemic to New Zealand, and is highly valued for its firm, delicate flesh. It's often prepared as fritters, stir-fries, or grilled with garlic butter sauce.
6. Hokey pokey ice cream - A New Zealand favoruite, hokey pokey ice cream is vanilla ice cream with small pieces of honeycomb toffee mixed throughout. It has a sweet, slightly crunchy texture that is addictive!
You can find general info about typical foods in New Zealand here.

Is Invercargill an expensive destination for tourists?

Invercargill can be an affordable destination for tourists, but it may depend on your travel style and budget. Accommodation options in Invercargill range from budget hostels to luxury hotels, so there are options for all budgets. Similarly, the city offers a variety of dining options to suit different budgets. Compared to other New Zealand destinations, Invercargill is generally considered to be more affordable. However, the cost of transportation to get to Invercargill can be a factor to consider as it is located in the southernmost part of New Zealand's South Island.

Where to find accomodation in Invercargill

Invercargill is a city located in the Southland region of the South Island of New Zealand. There are multiple areas in and around Invercargill where visitors can find accommodation. Here are few popular areas to consider: 1) City Centre: This area is in the heart of Invercargill with plenty of accommodation options ranging from hotels to backpacker hostels.
2) Queens Park: This area is a leafy green suburb located close to Queens Park and the Southland Museum and Art Gallery. It is a peaceful area with several hotels and motels.
3) Bluff: Bluff is a small town located about 20-minutes drive from Invercargill. This place is famous for its Oyster festival and the Bluff Hill lookout. There are a few accommodation options available in Bluff, including motels and bed & breakfast.
4) Riverton: Riverton is a small beach town located about 30-minutes drive from Invercargill. This place is popular for its surfing and fishing activities, and it has a few accommodation options like holiday parks and bed & breakfast. Ultimately, the best area to stay in Invercargill depends on the traveller's preference, budget, and interests.
You can check hotel prices at Invercargill here:
Booking.com

Is Invercargill a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Invercargill, New Zealand is considered to be a safe place for tourists to visit. The city has relatively low crime rates, and the local authorities work hard to ensure the safety and security of visitors. However, it is always important to take normal precautions when traveling, such as keeping valuable items secured, staying aware of your surroundings, and being mindful of risky situations. Overall, Invercargill is a welcoming and friendly town, and travelers should feel comfortable exploring all that the city has to offer.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in New Zealand here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Invercargill.

What type of travelers will enjoy Invercargill the most?

Invercargill is a lovely city in New Zealand with plenty to offer for different types of travelers. However, it tends to attract more mature travelers who are seeking a peaceful and relaxing holiday experience. The city has several attractive parks and gardens that make it an ideal destination for couples and families who enjoy the outdoors.
For families, Invercargill has several family-friendly attractions such as the Museum and Art Gallery, IMAX theatre, and Splash Palace Aquatic Centre. Young people looking for fun may enjoy exploring the city's vibrant nightlife and taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, or fishing.
Overall, Invercargill is an excellent destination for travelers who are seeking a peaceful and relaxing holiday experience. However, it may not be an ideal destination for those who are looking for a party atmosphere or loud nightlife.

How to get around Invercargill

If you are planning on getting around Invercargill (New Zealand), there are several transportation options available to you. 1. Bus: Invercargill has a local bus service that operates on a frequent basis throughout the city. You can purchase a bus pass or a single ticket as per your requirement.
2. Taxi: Taxis are available in Invercargill, and you can find them at taxi stands located throughout the city 3. Car Hire: If you prefer to drive yourself around Invercargill, you can also hire a car from several car rental companies present in the area.
4. Bike: Invercargill is a bike-friendly city, and you can rent a bike from several locations throughout the area to explore the city at a more leisurely pace.
5. Walking: Walking around Invercargill is also an option if you prefer to see the sights of the city at a slower pace.

What to see around Invercargill

Sure, here are some great places to visit on a day trip from Invercargill: 1. Bluff - Known for its oysters, the southernmost point of New Zealand and the Bluff Hill Lookout.
2. The Catlins - A beautiful area known for its waterfalls, coastal walks, and wildlife spotting.
3. Riverton - A charming seaside town with beautiful beaches, local artists, and walking trails.
4. Stewart Island - A remote island known for its birdlife, hiking trails, and scenery.
5. Gore - A quaint rural town known for its art galleries, museums, and heritage buildings.
6. Fiordland National Park - A stunning area with towering waterfalls, fiords and lakes. 7. Queenstown - A lively town with adventure activities, beautiful scenery, and great restaurants. These are just a few options, and there are plenty of other places to explore on a day trip from Invercargill.
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