The Southland Region & Invercargill City

Southland is a large region in the southern part of New Zealand’s South Island, known for its open spaces and low population density. The region has a strong economy based on farming, fishing, and forestry, making it an important part of New Zealand’s primary industries.

The main centres in Southland are:

  • Invercargill (population ~58,000)
  • Gore (population ~12,950)

Invercargill is New Zealand’s southernmost city and the regional capital. Alongside these centres, Southland includes many smaller towns and rural communities, offering a quieter and less crowded lifestyle compared to larger cities.

The region includes several world-famous locations:

  • Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  • Stewart Island / Rakiura National Park
  • The Catlins coastal region

These destinations are key reasons why people choose to study in Southland New Zealand, offering easy access to some of the country’s most iconic landscapes.

Students and visitors can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities, including:

  • Hiking (tramping)
  • Mountain biking
  • Surfing and kayaking
  • Skiing and snowboarding
  • Jet boating

Welcome to Invercargill City

Invercargill city by night

Invercargill is the main city in Southland and the southernmost city in New Zealand. It is a flat, spacious, and easy-to-navigate city, making it simple for students and visitors to get around.

The city is located close to the coast, with Oreti Beach just 10 minutes from SIT. Invercargill offers everything you need, including shops, cafes, restaurants, parks, and cultural attractions.

 

Invercargill has a strong focus on sport and outdoor activity. The city includes:

  • An indoor stadium and cycling velodrome
  • An Olympic-size swimming pool
  • Many parks and sports grounds

Invercargill city - aerial shot

One of the main recreational areas is Sandy Point, which covers over 2,000 hectares. It offers:

  • Walking and running tracks
  • Mountain biking trails
  • Horse riding and water sports
  • Motorsport and outdoor activities

Invercargill has a mix of modern facilities and historic buildings, giving the city a unique character. Key places include:

  • Civic Theatre
  • Museum and Art Gallery
  • Queens Park

The city is often called the “City of Water and Light” because of its long daylight hours and natural environment.

Invercargill's Civic Theatre

Events and Lifestyle

Southland hosts a range of events throughout the year, giving students opportunities to experience local culture.

Popular events include:

  • Burt Munro Challenge – international motorcycle event
  • Bluff Oyster Festival – famous seafood celebration
  • Shakespeare in the Park – outdoor theatre
  • Southland Festival of the Arts – music, theatre, and more
  • Tour of Southland – international cycling event
  • Southland Buskers Festival – street performances
  • International Food Festival
  • Surf to City race (12 km)

There are also regular sports events, concerts, and performances throughout the year.

There is a wealth of other activities held during the year, including international and national sports competitions, the Royal New Zealand Ballet, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra, a number of shows and performances and popular New Zealand bands and singers. 

You can find out what other events are going on at https://greatsouth.nz or take a look at the Friendly’s 101 List https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hDV_fm4mP8 for plenty of free and low cost things to do in and around Invercargill.