Invercargill abounds with superb parks and gardens. For a city so small, they are a treasure that local folk are truly proud of. Take time to explore nature at is most noble and preservation at its proudest.....

Queens Park

Invercargill’s Queens Park, is the grandest of all the city's parks. Encompassing more than 80 hectares, it offers the visitor the most diverse range of facilities and attractions.
The Park boasts two beautiful and varied rose gardens, a rhododendron dell, an azalea garden, dramatic tree lined walkways, bush paths, a selection of native plants, a Japanese garden, rock and herb gardens. There is an indoor Winter Garden featuring tropical and flowering plants. Queens Park also has an impressive bird aviary, animal enclosures, children’s play areas, extensive sporting facilities and a cafe. Also prominent on the ground is the Southland Museum and Art Gallery.

Anderson Park

Anderson Park surrounds the Anderson Park Art Gallery and covers 24 hectares of flower and rose gardens, immaculate lawn, tall trees and native bush. There is also a traditional carved Maori house, a short bush walk circuit, duck pond and childrens playground. The Andersons' elegant home, now houses the Anderson Park Art Gallery Society's splendid collection of quality New Zealand art.

Otepuni Gardens

Popular shaded pathways, winding along the banks of the Otepuni Stream make a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of the city's commercial centre. The spacious 9.4 hectares, encompassing four city blocks, are an important central landmark, and joggers and cyclists take advantage of the sense of seclusion the gardens offer.

Southland Festival of Gardens

During late October and early November, Southland’s Festival of the Gardens gives opportunity for visitors to view magnificent properties not always open to the public. The festival continues in February, allowing summer blooms to feature at their best.
With over 25 gardens on display around Southland, there is a vast selection to choose from to meet even the most discerning of tastes. The brochure “a Celebration of Southland Gardens” lists all gardens open to the public, including the “Southland Festival of Gardens”.

The brochure can be ordered by completing the brochure order form on this site or by phoning 0800 SEE GARDENS (733 4273). Visit www.visit.southlandnz.com for more information or the Invercargill i-SITE Visitor Centre at the Southland Musuem & Art Gallery.