Invercargill Travel Guide

Explore the natural attractions, cultural landmarks, food and drink scene, and more with our week-long itinerary in Invercargill, New Zealand. Learn more about what to do, see, and how to get there in this ultimate guide.


Discovering Invercargill: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Introduction to Invercargill

Known as the southernmost city in New Zealand, Invercargill is located in Southland, South Island, and sits between the Pacific Ocean and the Southern Alps, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adrenaline junkies. Invercargill is also known for its friendly locals, low-key lifestyle, and long scenic roads worth the drive.

List of Places to Visit in Invercargill

There are plenty of must-visit destinations in Invercargill, here are some of the top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Southland Museum and Art Gallery: a museum featuring rare local wildlife, such as the tuatara, as well as history exhibits and a planetarium for space lovers.

  • E Hayes and Sons: a hardware store turned museum, home to the world-famous motorbike – Burt Munro’s Indian motorcycle, which was ridden to a world land speed record in 1967.

  • Demolition World: a quirky site which is stacked with piles of salvaged building materials as well as small antique shops. Visitors can learn about the importance of waste reduction while exploring the area.

Natural Attractions of Invercargill: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Queens Park: A 200-acre botanical garden that offers abundant green space to take a stroll, play some golf or tennis, take a treehouse walk, or simply relax in one of the park’s many picturesque spots.

  • Oreti Beach: a beautiful beach with soft sands and an endless horizon making it the perfect location for a stroll or a dip in the Pacific Ocean on warmer days.

  • Bluff Oyster Festival: Bluff oysters are considered New Zealand’s original delicacy, and the annual Bluff Oyster Festival held every March is an opportunity for visitors to enjoy oysters and other seafood delicacies, live music, and plenty of other activities in Southland’s oldest town.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Invercargill

Invercargill has plenty of outdoor opportunities for those, who want to hike or bike. Here are the top routes:

  • Estuary Walkway: A 4km/90-minute walkway that follows a flat trail along the Waihopai River to the estuary.

  • Sandy Point: An easy and scenic turn-around ride or walk which starts and ends at Queens Park or Oreti Beach. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the estuary wetlands and the ocean coast into one ride.

Best Things to Do in Invercargill: Activities and Tours

  • Southern Scenic Route: A 610-kilometer/379-mile scenic route spanning across two key New Zealand regions – Southland and Otago. Explore New Zealand’s famed natural beauty, landscapes, and wildlife along this road trip.

  • Wildlife Tours: Experience the ultimate wildlife adventure in Invercargill by trying out incredible tours conducted by local experts, involving various rare bird-watching, chasing Kiwi breeding programs, and aid in the conservation of unique New Zealand bird species.

  • Gore Farmers’ Market: A must-visit for food lovers, Gore Farmers’ Market offers a great collection including local and organic fruits, vegetables, meat, and fish, as well as delicious homemade pies, bread, cake or jams.

Week-Long Itinerary for Invercargill

For an extensive Invercargill trip, follow this one-week itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore the city of Invercargill, visiting museums, galleries, and historical landmarks.
Day 2 Spend the day hiking or biking the Sandy Point circuit.
Day 3 Visit Bluff and enjoy some seafood delicacies at the Bluff Oyster Festival.
Day 4 Take the Southern Scenic Route and explore the wild beaches and scenic vistas in the area.
Day 5 Explore the unique wildlife tours with experienced local guides.
Day 6 Stroll through the Queens Park Botanical Garden followed by a relaxing evening at Oreti Beach.
Day 7 Visit nearby Gore Farmers’ Market, taste the local delights, and finish the trip reminiscing on all the unforgettable memories!

Food and Drink Scene of Invercargill

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bluff Oysters: Freshly harvested from the waters of Bluff Harbour, these oysters are recognized as some of the best in the world.

  • Southland Cheese Roll: A simple combination of bread, cheese, onion, and spices, grilled until crispy, and served hot.

  • Blue cod fish and chips: Fresh fish cooked in light batter, served with chips, salad, and tartar sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Coffee: Invercargill prides itself on brewing some of the best coffee in the country. The city has an impressive range of independent cafes.

  • Speight’s Brewery: A regional brewery, known for its traditional German-style lagers, and its location in the nearby city of Dunedin.

Where to Stay in Invercargill: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Invercargill has a range of accommodations, ranging from budget to luxury. Some of the best options are:

  • Ascot Park Hotel: A four-star accommodation located close to the city center and the airport which offers a comfortable stay with great facilities.

  • Heritage Court Motel: A perfect option for self-catering with fully furnished apartments with a fully equipped kitchenette.

  • Bella Vista Invercargill: A budget-friendly option, located centrally and offers a clean and cozy room at an affordable rate.

What to Buy in Invercargill: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Hardy’s Verandah: A perfect spot to take home great souvenirs from Invercargill with a vast selection of products from jewelry, glassware, homewares, and art showcasing Kiwi and Maori Culture.

  • E Hayes and Sons: Stock up on classic hardware items and branded souvenirs (including various motorcycle gear).

Local Culture and Customs of Invercargill

New Zealand’s Southland region and Invercargill, in particular, are known for agricultural traditions, sporting culture, and resilience through tough times. Locals are said to be known for their friendliness and laid-back culture for tourists to enjoy a comfortable visit.

Best Time to Visit Invercargill

The best time to visit Invercargill is during the summer months, i.e. December to February, when the weather is warmer, and visitors can enjoy the numerous outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Invercargill

Do:

  • Respect nature and the environment by using recyclable material wherever possible and keeping hiking trails and beaches clean.

  • Make the most of Invercargill’s laid back culture by engaging with locals and learning the unique traditions that make this region in New Zealand so special.

Don’t:

  • Don’t take photos of people without their permission; it’s best to engage in conversation and get to know people first.

  • Avoid littering or leaving garbage behind — take it with you until you find a proper disposal site.

Safety and Health

Safety in Invercargill

Invercargill is an incredibly safe place to visit. However, visitors must take the usual precautionary measures such as being mindful of their valuables when out in public. Remain safe when participating in outdoor activities such as hiking and biking by following the safety guidelines and wearing appropriate gear.

Health in Invercargill

Invercargill has excellent medical facilities available for visitors, with several options from medical centers to hospitals. Visitors are always advised to have medical or travel insurance to ensure they have peace of mind.

Getting to Invercargill: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Invercargill

Invercargill has its own international airport, which is connected to major cities in New Zealand, including Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Once at the airport, the city center can be reached within 15 minutes by taxi or by using rental services like Hertz, Avis, and Budget.

Bus Stations Near Invercargill

There isn’t much of an intercity bus network in Invercargill, but local buses are available, and there are daily services between Invercargill and other nearby towns.

Other Options

Taxis and Ubers are also available in Invercargill, but since the city is known for its long drives, visitors can also hire a car or motorbike. Remember that traffic runs on the left-hand side of the road in New Zealand!

How to Get Around in Invercargill

The city is compact and easy to navigate, with most attractions located within a walking distance of each other. If you prefer not to walk, taxis and buses are great options. Visitors can also rent bikes or use their cars, but keep in mind that Invercargill is known for its long drives.

Where to Go Next from Invercargill: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Te Anau: A scenic 2-hour drive north of Invercargill with beautiful sceneries and picturesque landscapes.

  • The Catlins: This remote area is full of wild beaches, scenic waterfalls, stunning rainforests, and plenty of birdwatching opportunities. A perfect destination for adventure seekers.

Conclusion

Invercargill is the perfect destination for nature lovers, food enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a low-key experience in their New Zealand adventure. With its stunning natural landscapes, friendly locals, and unique cultural offerings, there’s always something new to discover in Invercargill. Use our comprehensive travel guide to plan your perfect trip and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

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