Top 21 Things to Do in Invercargill, New Zealand

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Discover the top 21 things to do in Invercargill, New Zealand. Explore parks, heritage sites, museums, nature reserves, and vegetarian & vegan restaurants near every activity.

Invercargill, located at the southern tip of New Zealand’s South Island, is often called the gateway to the Catlins, Stewart Island, and Fiordland. Despite being lesser-known, Invercargill offers a charming blend of heritage architecture, parks, museums, and easy access to spectacular natural landscapes. It’s ideal for travellers seeking history, nature, and a relaxed Southland experience. This guide covers the top 21 things to do in Invercargill, with vegetarian and vegan dining options conveniently near each experience.

1. Explore Queens Park

Queens Park is Invercargill’s largest and most iconic green space, featuring walking trails, rose gardens, sports grounds, playgrounds, and a small wildlife centre. It’s perfect for families, picnics, or an afternoon stroll.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Speight’s Ale House Invercargill (vegetarian meals), Victoria Avenue cafés with plant-based options.

2. Visit Bill Richardson Transport World

This museum showcases an incredible collection of vintage cars, trucks, and transport memorabilia. It’s one of Invercargill’s most unique attractions, appealing to both adults and children.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Café in transport museum (vegetarian options), CBD vegan-friendly cafés.

3. Discover Southland Museum & Art Gallery

Although currently undergoing refurbishment, the museum features exhibitions on local history, Māori culture, and natural science. It is a cultural hub for learning about Southland.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Urban Coffee Roasters Invercargill (plant-based meals), local CBD cafés.

4. Visit E Hayes & Sons (Classic Car Collection)

This private collection includes classic cars, vintage motorcycles, and other historic vehicles. It’s a fascinating stop for vehicle enthusiasts.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
CBD cafés with vegetarian-friendly meals, The Perc Café style plant-based options.

5. Explore Oreti Beach

Oreti Beach is a long, sandy beach perfect for walks, photography, and observing local wildlife. It’s popular for flying kites, dog walks, and enjoying sunsets.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Pack picnic food from CBD vegan cafés, local bakeries.

6. Visit Invercargill Water Tower

The historic Water Tower is a city landmark. Visitors can enjoy architecture, history, and panoramic views from nearby lookout points.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Cafés along Tay Street with vegetarian options.

7. Explore the Bill McKenzie Art Collection

This small but impressive art collection features works by local and national New Zealand artists. It’s perfect for culture enthusiasts.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Urban Coffee Roasters Invercargill, Victoria Avenue plant-based cafés.

8. Visit the Southland Indoor Leisure Centre

Great for families, this leisure centre has swimming pools, slides, and fitness facilities. It’s ideal for a day of indoor recreation.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
CBD cafés with vegetarian-friendly meals, vegan takeaway options.

9. Discover Queens Drive Historic Homes

Invercargill has beautiful heritage homes along Queens Drive, showcasing Victorian and Edwardian architecture. Walking tours allow visitors to explore architectural history up close.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Speight’s Ale House, Urban Coffee Roasters.

10. Walk the Waihopai River Trail

The Waihopai River Trail offers riverside walking, cycling, and birdwatching. It’s a peaceful way to experience Invercargill’s natural scenery.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Pack vegan snacks from CBD cafés before heading out.

11. Visit the Bill Richardson Classic Car Museum

This museum is a must for vehicle enthusiasts, showcasing rare vintage cars, motorbikes, and memorabilia. It’s also a family-friendly attraction.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
CBD cafés with vegetarian options.

12. Explore the Southland Gallery Exhibitions

The Southland Gallery hosts exhibitions featuring local artists, photography, and cultural displays. It’s a hub for the city’s arts scene.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Urban Coffee Roasters, Victoria Avenue cafés.

13. Visit Stirling Point & Bluff

Stirling Point marks the start of State Highway 1 and is famous for its anchor and panoramic ocean views. Bluff is nearby, known for seafood and coastal scenery.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Pack plant-based picnic meals, local cafés may offer vegetarian options.

14. Explore the Invercargill Water Gardens

A hidden gem in the city, the Water Gardens feature manicured ponds, walkways, and a tranquil setting for a relaxing stroll.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
CBD cafés, vegan-friendly bakeries.

15. Take a Scenic Drive to The Catlins

The Catlins region is full of waterfalls, beaches, and native forests. Invercargill is the perfect starting point for day trips or overnight tours.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Pack vegan food from Invercargill cafés before heading out.

16. Visit Southland Vintage Car Club

For classic car enthusiasts, the club often hosts exhibitions and events that showcase rare and historic vehicles.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
CBD cafés, plant-based snacks available nearby.

17. Walk Around Tay Street & City Centre

The city centre offers shopping, street art, and historic buildings. It’s easy to explore on foot and soak in Invercargill’s charm.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Urban Coffee Roasters, Speight’s Ale House, plant-based takeaway options.

18. Visit the Rugby Heritage Centre

Dunedin may be more famous for rugby, but Invercargill also has a strong rugby culture with exhibits and memorabilia celebrating local teams.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
CBD cafés with vegetarian options, vegan-friendly takeaway.

19. Explore the Otepuni Gardens

This hidden garden is ideal for peaceful walks, photography, and enjoying nature within the city.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Urban Coffee Roasters, nearby cafés with plant-based meals.

20. Visit the Invercargill Brewery & Taproom

Enjoy local craft beers and snacks, with some vegetarian-friendly options. It’s a relaxing way to spend an evening in the city.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
Speight’s Ale House, CBD cafés offering plant-based meals.

21. Take an Invercargill Day Tour

Invercargill is the gateway to Stewart Island, Fiordland, and the Catlins. Booking with My Holidays Diary Invercargill tours allows visitors to explore these spectacular destinations in comfort.

Vegetarian & Vegan Nearby:
CBD cafés before or after tours, offering vegetarian and vegan meals.