Invercargill

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Invercargill's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Invercargill
morning
:

Start your day at Queens Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk among beautiful gardens and native trees. Don't forget to visit the park's animal reserve to see local wildlife up close.

afternoon
:

Head to the Invercargill City Centre for lunch at one of the local cafes. Afterward, explore the Southland Museum and Art Gallery to learn about the region's history and culture.

evening
:

Wind down with a cozy dinner at a local bistro. Enjoy some delicious Southland lamb paired with local wines, followed by a stroll through the city under the stars.

day 2
Adventure Awaits
morning
:

Get energized with a visit to Bluff, just a short drive from Invercargill. Enjoy stunning views of the coastline at Stirling Point and take a photo at the iconic signpost.

afternoon
:

Visit the Bluff Oyster Museum for a taste of local seafood culture. Savor fresh oysters at a nearby restaurant for lunch and enjoy the coastal scenery.

evening
:

Return to Invercargill and experience the local craft beer scene. Visit a brewery for a tasting flight paired with hearty pub fare.

day 3
Cultural Encounter
morning
:

Visit the Eastern Southland Gallery to appreciate contemporary New Zealand art. Take your time exploring the impressive exhibitions and engaging with local artists.

afternoon
:

Head to the Invercargill Public Library for a leisurely afternoon of reading or joining a community event. Enjoy some light snacks at the library cafΓ©.

evening
:

Catch a live performance at the Civic Theatre. Enjoy the vibrant arts scene with a show that showcases local talent or traveling artists.

day 4
Nature Escape
morning
:

Take a hike at the Waikaia River, where you can immerse yourself in natural beauty. Enjoy the serenity of the river trails and listen to the sounds of the birds.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the water. Take in the breathtaking landscapes before heading back to Invercargill.

evening
:

Enjoy a quiet evening at a parkside picnic, watching the sunset. Consider bringing a local cheese platter for a taste of Southland.

day 5
Historical Discovery
morning
:

Visit the Southland Vintage Car Club Museum and admire the classic vehicles on display. Learn about the history of car culture in New Zealand.

afternoon
:

Explore the historic buildings along Tay Street, including the city's iconic Victorian architecture. Have lunch at a historical cafΓ© that reflects the charm of the area.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant that serves traditional Kiwi cuisine. Savor dishes made from locally sourced ingredients, possibly featuring a delicious seafood option.

day 6
Family Fun
morning
:

Visit the Invercargill Adventure Park for a fun-filled morning with the family. Enjoy activities like mini-golf, go-karting, and more.

afternoon
:

Have a relaxed lunch at the park's cafΓ©, then head to the local skate park or playground. Let the kids play while you enjoy the community atmosphere.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with a family movie night at home or at a nearby cinema. Enjoy snack foods to make the experience special.

day 7
Wildlife Wonders
morning
:

Venture to the nearby Rakiura National Park for a chance to see rare wildlife. Take a guided tour to learn about the local ecosystem.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a packed lunch in the park while soaking up the beautiful scenery. Keep your camera ready to capture the amazing sights.

evening
:

Return to Invercargill for a dinner at a restaurant that prioritizes sustainability. Try dishes featuring local game or vegetarian options.

day 8
Local Flavors
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Invercargill Farmers Market to discover fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with the farmers and vendors for unique finds.

afternoon
:

Attend a cooking class that showcases Southland ingredients, learning how to create delicious local dishes. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with fellow attendees at lunch.

evening
:

Visit a local winery for a tasting experience in the evening. Pair wines with a gourmet dinner featuring seasonal flavors from the region.

day 9
Scenic Drives
morning
:

Set out on a scenic drive to the Catlins Coast, taking in the breathtaking views along the way. Stop at picturesque locations for photos.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic and find a quiet spot along the coastline to enjoy lunch. Explore nearby waterfalls and beaches after your meal.

evening
:

Return to Invercargill in the evening and look for a spot that offers live music for a relaxing end to the day. Savor a nightcap while soaking in the atmosphere.

day 10
Sporting Spirit
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the ILT Stadium Southland to catch a local sports game. Experience the community spirit and cheer for your team.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at the stadium cafΓ© while watching more events or head to a local sports bar. Engage with locals about the teams and events.

evening
:

Finish the day with a casual dinner at a sports-themed restaurant. Relive the day's highlights with fellow fans over a plate of delicious comfort food.

Discover Invercargill

Read more in our Invercargill 2024 Travel Guide.

Invercargill Travel Guide