Invercargill

Invercargill is a charming city nestled in the Southland region of New Zealand.

Invercargill is known for its welcoming community and peaceful atmosphere; it offers a safe and affordable environment for residents and students alike.

With reputable educational institutions and a range of academic programs, the city is an excellent place to pursue education and personal growth.

Invercargill boasts stunning natural surroundings, from beautiful beaches to scenic parks, allowing for outdoor recreation and exploration.

The city's vibrant cultural scene, with its art exhibitions, performances, and community festivals, adds a touch of creativity and excitement to daily life.

With employment opportunities and easy access to thrilling outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters, Invercargill offers a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle for those seeking a supportive community, quality education, and a connection to nature.

Why Invercargill is the Best City to Live and Study English in New Zealand

• Affordable Cost of Living: Invercargill boasts a relatively low cost of living compared to larger cities in New Zealand. Accommodation, transportation, and everyday expenses tend to be more affordable, making it an attractive option for students and residents.
• Quality Education Institutions: Invercargill is home to reputable educational institutions, including the Southern Institute of Technology (SIT) and the University of Otago campus. These institutions provide a range of academic programs, vocational courses, and research opportunities, offering high-quality education and diverse learning pathways.
• Safe and Peaceful Environment: Invercargill is known for its safe and peaceful environment. The city enjoys low crime rates, making it an ideal place to live and study. Students can focus on their studies without major safety concerns, and families can enjoy a safe community atmosphere.
• Welcoming Community: Invercargill prides itself on its friendly and welcoming community. The locals are known for their hospitality and genuine warmth toward visitors and newcomers. This creates a supportive environment for students, where they can easily integrate, make friends, and feel a sense of belonging.
• Beautiful Natural Surroundings: Invercargill is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. The city offers plenty of outdoor recreation and exploration opportunities, from pristine beaches to scenic parks and gardens. Students can enjoy hiking, biking, water sports, and nature walks in the nearby countryside, providing a healthy balance to their academic pursuits.
• Cultural and Artistic Scene: Invercargill has a vibrant cultural and artistic scene. The city hosts various events, exhibitions, and performances annually, showcasing local talent and promoting creative expression. Students can engage with the arts, attend concerts and shows, and participate in community festivals.
• Employment Opportunities: Invercargill provides employment opportunities in various industries, including agriculture, healthcare, education, and technology. This can be advantageous for students seeking part-time work or graduates looking for job prospects within the city.
• Proximity to Adventure and Wildlife: Invercargill is a gateway to exciting outdoor adventures and wildlife experiences. The city is close to the rugged landscapes of the Fiordland National Park, the beauty of the Catlins coastal area, and the opportunity to explore Stewart Island's unique flora and fauna. Students can easily embark on memorable trips and engage with New Zealand's remarkable natural heritage.

The most popular sights, tourist attractions, and things to do and see in Invercargill

• Queens Park: Queens Park is a beautiful public park in the heart of Invercargill. It features extensive gardens, walking paths, a children's playground, sports facilities, and various themed gardens, including Japanese and rose gardens. The park is also home to the Southland Museum and Art Gallery.
• Southland Museum and Art Gallery: The Southland Museum and Art Gallery, situated within Queens Park, is known for its diverse natural history exhibits, including displays of New Zealand's unique wildlife and the tuatara, a rare reptile. It also houses an art gallery showcasing both local and national artworks.
• E Hayes and Sons: This historic hardware store is famous for its association with Burt Munro, the renowned motorcycle racer. It features a unique collection of motorcycles, including Burt Munro's original Indian motorcycle, and a wide range of tools and machinery.
• Transport World: Transport World is a museum showcasing New Zealand's transport history. It houses an extensive collection of vintage vehicles, including classic cars, trucks, motorcycles, and retro caravans. The museum also features interactive exhibits and displays that provide insights into the country's transportation heritage.
• Classic Motorcycle Mecca: Classic Motorcycle Mecca is a must-visit for motorcycle enthusiasts. It exhibits an impressive collection of over 300 classic and vintage motorcycles, ranging from rare antiques to modern bikes. The museum offers a fascinating journey through the evolution of motorcycles.
• Oreti Beach: Just a short drive from the city, Oreti Beach is a beautiful coastal stretch known for its scenic views and long sandy shoreline. It's a popular spot for walks, beachcombing, and picnics, and it has significance in the history of motorsport, as it was where Burt Munro tested his motorcycles.

The most important events and festivals in Invercargill

• Burt Munro Challenge: This event pays tribute to Burt Munro, a local legend known for his record-breaking motorcycle racing achievements. It features various motorsport competitions, including hill climbs, beach racing, speedway racing, and street racing.
• Southland Festival of the Arts: This annual festival showcases various performances, including theatre, music, dance, visual arts, and literary events. The festival brings together local, national, and international artists and performers to celebrate creativity and culture.
• Waimumu Field Days: Considered one of the largest rural events in the southern hemisphere, the Waimumu Field Days showcases the latest agricultural machinery, technology, and services. It attracts farmers, rural industry professionals, and visitors interested in farming and rural lifestyle.
• New Zealand International Film Festival (Invercargill screenings): As part of the nationwide New Zealand International Film Festival, Invercargill hosts screenings of acclaimed films worldwide. It allows film enthusiasts to enjoy diverse international and local films.
• Christmas Tree Festival: Held during the Christmas season, the Christmas Tree Festival features a display of beautifully decorated Christmas trees. It is a community event where individuals, groups, and businesses contribute uniquely decorated trees to create a festive atmosphere.
• Burt Munro Vintage Motorcycle Rally: This rally gathers vintage motorcycle enthusiasts and collectors to showcase their unique bikes. It includes a display of classic motorcycles, organized rides, and social events celebrating the passion for vintage motorcycles.