The Nature Of Invercargill

In New Zealand's Southland, you will find the southern-most and western-most city in the country, Invercargill. This city is the commercial centre of the region and lies in the heart of the Southland Plains. The city itself sits amid rich farm and bush land and is a true highlight of the South Island.

Campervanning in Invercargill will begin as you venture along the Southern Scenic Route, a spectacular drive of natural and commercial wonders and attractions. Invercargill is the main city on this route so it only seems logical for you to stay here. The warmth, friendliness and hospitality here will make your campervan New Zealand holiday an enjoyable one that will be full of sight seeing, stunning drives and amazing experiences.

Invercargill is known as the gateway to the Southland Heartland, Stewart Island, Fiordland and the Caitlins. This makes it the perfect place to base yourself for exploration of these areas, as they are all located within a short driving distance of the city.

Invercargill enjoys a rejuvenated city life, outstanding natural resources and peaceful and tranquil parks and gardens. It is also a centre for cultural attractions, with a strong presence of local and international art and history, hanging in the air. Not to mention, an array of excellent shopping facilities, lively cafes, trendy restaurants and bustling bars and clubs. Invercargill offers everything that a vibrant and thriving city should, with a hint of beauty and nature in and around the city scape.

Home to many fine museums and galleries, you are sure to find a slice of history here that you can cherish forever. Highlights include the Anderson Park Art Gallery, the historic water tower and the Southland Museum and Art Gallery. Both of these attractions house fine art and artefacts from the past that depict Invercargill's longstanding heritage. The historic buildings that line the inner city streets also play a part in demonstrating the area's history, along with providing a stunning setting that visitors can enjoy all year round. To discover more of the past, get out your walking shoes and trek along the Invercargill "Heritage Trail" or the "City Spirit Walk". You can easily park your campervan at the base of these walks and then venture into a historical and cultural experience.

While you are still in the hiking mood, there are several other walks and treks in the area that will surely please and leave you in awe. Drive your campervan just 7 kilometres west of the city and you will come across the totara Forest at the Sandy Point Domain. Here you will be able to experience native wildlife and climb the steep sand dunes that enclose the secluded beaches. You will also be able to discover the multiple lookout points that boast spectacular views of the New River Estuary. Be sure to take your camera because you won't want to miss out on capturing these sights forever!

Back in the city, you can continue your exploration of nature, as Invercargill abounds with superb parks that will allow you to experience nature at its most preserved. Queens Park is the grandest park in the city and is home to a diverse range of facilities and attractions. Uncover the riveting rose gardens, the amazing azalea garden, the jubilant Japanese garden and a vast selection of native plants and flowers. Queens Park is also the resting place of the Southland Museum and Art Gallery, so you may as well tie these two activities in together.

Invercargill is home to a large handful of caravan and holiday parks, with locations ranging from the centre of the city to right on the beachfront. If you choose to stay at the Beach Road Holiday Park you will be able to enjoy the peaceful calm waters of Oreti Beach, a safe swimming beach that is perfect for the whole family. The Invercargill Top 10 Holiday Park is another popular accommodation hot spot, offering excellent facilities for your campervan as well as friendly hospitality and spacious sites. Wherever you choose to stay, you are sure to enjoy your time in Invercargill, immensely.

The city of Invercargill offers a unique contrast of family attractions and activities that will rarely leave you with nothing to do. On the outskirts you fill find stunning bush reserves, beaches and gardens, all of the quality that you have come to expect of New Zealand's Southland. Invercargill is the perfect destination for a campervan holiday as you really need the freedom of your own vehicle to experience all the perks of this amazing city!

Christine Barton