The Southernmost city in New Zealand is Invercargill. Its name is derived from that of the prominent Otago Settler, William Cargill. It services the productive farming community on the plains of Southland. It has a feel of a bygone era evoked by the broad streets, Victorian style buildings and the friendly unrushed inhabitants.

Native Southlanders are easy to pick. They speak with a burr which they have inherited from their ancestors from Scotland. They are also amongst the most hospitable people in the country.

Invercargill is easy to reach along State Highway 1 and is about 2.5 hours South of Dunedin. It is close to the tourist destinations of Te Anau, Queenstown and the Catlins. The airport is only 3 km from town and there are regular connections to the main centres. On a clear day the views of the mountains on the flight are stunning. Buses operate between Invercargill and Dunedin, Christchurch and Queenstown.

The Central Business District lies between Gala, Daveron, Leven and Tay Streets and radiates from the corner of Kelvin and Esk streets. Interestingly many of the streets reflect the heritage of the early settlers and are named after Scottish and English rivers.

Conveniently located on the edge of the CBD is the beautiful Queen’s Park. Within its 81 hectares you can find a wide selection of things to see and do. Here you can visit the Observatory, a zoo or the Southland Museum and Art Gallery. If you prefer you can play a round of golf at Queen's Golf Club. At the Edwardian styled park you will enjoy seeing ponds and formal gardens and the children will be able to play on an excellent playground.

A trip to bluff is worthwhile. It is the most Southerly town on the Mainland. This is the starting point for the ferry to remote and spectacular Steward Island. From here you can visit the native bird sanctuary on Ulva Island. From Bluff you can also visit the Tiwai Point Aluminium Smelter and go on one of their frequent tours. It is a good idea to leave watches and other electronic equipment behind as they may be damaged by the powerful magnetic fields in the plant.

When you visit Invercargill accommodation will be a priority. A list of well located motels can be obtained by searching the internet. It will be easy to find comfortable and reasonably priced accommodation thus ensuring you enjoy your visit to this hospitable city.