There's plenty to see and explore in New Zealand's most southern region, aptly named Southland, so discover a place full of possibilities with our guide,

Southland is known for its cheese rolls, excellent Kiwi hospitality, “The World’s Fastest Indian”, Stewart Island, Fiordland, and more. Her 35,000 square kilometers are full of natural beauty and friendly people.

Whether you’re visiting on a clear day or get to experience some strong southerly weather conditions, you simply can’t beat Southland when it comes to striking coastline, delicious local fare, lush rolling hills, fresh seafood, unique attractions, and rich local history.

12 Hours Invercargill

Food on a table at the Grill in Invercargill.

The best things to see, eat and do in Invercargill

5 Sweet Treats to Try in Invercargill

Cabinet of cakes at Black Shag Espresso.
Southland

From doughnuts to slices, we’ve rounded up five of the best places to satisfy your sweet tooth in Invercargill.

The Black Shag Owners Take Us Behind-The-Scenes Into Their Backyard Garden

Sylvie and Dion of the Black Shag.
Southland
If you ask anywhere in Invercargill for where to get a great cup of coffee and breakfast, they’ll point you toward The Black Shag. Owner operators, Sylvie Boutelje-Chasteau and Dion Milanesi, have such a passion for sustainable food and top notch coffee that they’ve taken matters into their own hands.

Meet the Women Who Brought Pole Dancing to Invercargill

Morina & Saniya portrait.
Southland
Morina & Saniya may be two of Invercargill’s busiest (and most inspiring) women. As co-owners of the only women’s pole dancing studio in Invercargill, they host classes four nights a week while juggling full-time jobs, families, and pole dance competitions.

Treat Yourself to Southern Hospitality with Our Guide to Invercargill's Best Stores

Southland

One of the best (and most fun!) ways to get to know a city is to explore the local shops, and Invercargill is no exception.

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See Ya Peter

Greeting cards shelf.
Place Southland

Well-known for their cheeky card selection, varied array of NZ made goods and highly unique, small-batch brands, this home & gift shop is a must-visit for anyone looking...

Ziffs

Fish and chips on a table.
Place Southland
Bars key icon. Restaurants key icon.

You may only be a few minutes from the city, but Ziffs has a knack for making you feel a world away.

Meccaspresso

Barista standing by steaming coffee machine.
Place Southland
Cafes key icon.

Ago-to café whether you’re stopping by to see the classic motorcycle collection at Mecca, or just looking for a satisfying meal in the heart of the city.

Black Shag Boutique Café

People sitting behind the coffee machine.
Place Southland Editor's Pick
Cafes key icon.

Head to Black Shag in Invercargill for the perfect trifecta of coffee, food and service.

He Waka Tuia

He Waka Tuia sign.
Place Southland
Galleries and museum key icon.

In the heart of Invercargill you’ll find art and museum space He Waka Tuia, a joint initiative between the Invercargill Public Art Gallery and the Southland Museum and Art Gallery.

Bombay Palace

Close up of curry and rice.
Place Southland
Restaurants key icon.

If a flavourful meal in a cosy, inviting atmosphere is what you’re after in this southern city, then look no further.

Alley Cat Tattoo

Alley Cat Exterior view.
Place Southland Editor's Pick
Services key icon.

A unique tattoo studio that’s quirky and welcoming enough to tempt even the most strait-laced person to get inked.

Amigo's Mexican Grill

Stacks of sombreros.
Place Southland
Restaurants key icon.

The cheerful, upcycled decor and friendly staff will welcome you with open arms at this Mexican food establishment, and a margarita won’t be far behind.

Georgetown Barbers

Man getting his hair cut.
Place Southland
Services key icon.

There’s no need to rush in and out here, the team at Georgetown Barbers aspire to make getting a haircut less of an errand and more of an experience.

Toasted

Toasted sign.
Place Southland
Cafes key icon.

Serving up New York Style bagels that are made with hand-picked ingredients, this casual breakfast and lunch stop is a tried-and-true favourite amongst students and local office workers.

Found My Way

Table with coasters, cup and sunglasses.
Place Southland
Fashion key icon. Goods key icon.

Like a feel-good movie that can take you out of reality, this beautiful store feels like a tiny escape from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day life.

Yours Faithfully

Leather bags hanging up at Liz Thomas.
Place Southland
Fashion key icon.

Come revel in the Liz Thomas's old timey glamour while exploring the very best of NZ fashion.

Oyster Cove

The ocean view from inside the Oyster Cove restaurant.
Place Southland
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Perched above the Pacific, Oyster Cove serves up the best of the best when it comes to Aotearoa’s seafood.

The Pantry

The refill bins.
Place Southland
Cafes key icon. Goods key icon.

Invercargill's non-profit health foods store, café and community hub.

Tuatara Café & Bar

Close up of a flat white and newspaper on a table.
Place Southland
Cafes key icon. Restaurants key icon.

A brewery, craft beer bar and pizzeria rolled into one, visit Tuatara Café to enjoy all of the above in one of Dee Street’s historic buildings.

Industry

Close up of sweet treats in the cabinet at Industry..
Place Southland
Cafes key icon.

At the only café in Invercargill’s northwest corner, expect to nd delicious baked goods all made in house, hearty breakfast and lunch dishes and plenty of options for dietary restrictions.