Invercargill & Bluff

This 40m high historic tower is probably the city’s best-known landmark and, after climbing 112 steep steps, offers fantastic panoramic views of the city. Completed in 1889 using 300,000 bricks, the tower was Invercargill's main water supply. The water in the tank still provides enough pressure should the electric power supply to the modern pumps be interrupted unexpectedly. Public access is available on Sundays and public holidays – check opening times at Invercargill i-SITE.

Thomsons Bush is a remnant of the mainly kahikatea swamp forest that once covered much of the Southland area. The native vegetation is dominated by kahikatea, matai and ribbonwood. It provides opportunities for walks and picnics. Located on both sides of Queens Drive on the northern side of the Waihopai River.

This walkway follows the Waihopai River from the Waihopai Dam at the northern-most point, to the Stead Bridge a the southern-most point. The entire 15km loop may take 4.5 hours but it can be enjoyed in sections. The main access points are at Stead Street, North Road, Queens Drive and Racecourse Road.

Sandy Point is a natural playground 10km west of Invercargill – access is from Dunns Road, Otatara. A 13km network of well-formed signposted walking tracks makes it easy to explore the river banks, estuary and forest on foot. There is a great area of well-marked mountain-biking tracks to suit all skill levels. There is also a horse-float park and a good network of tracks available for people who wish to experience the area on horseback. The Visitor Centre is located on Sandy Point Road and provides detailed information on walks, flora,fauna and human history of the area.

The sweeping sandy expanse of Oreti Beach was the trail used by Māori travelling between Riverton and Oue/Sandy Point. The south end of the beach was called Mate Aweawe (Misty Way). The beach is 30 km long and the main vehicle entrance is at the end of Dunns Road, Otatara.

Signposted from SH1, immediately before the Greenpoint Cemetery. A wellgraded track and boardwalk follows the shoreline to Greenpoint, highlighting features of natural and historic interest that include a ship graveyard.

The Māori name for Bluff Hill is Motupōhue (motu because of its island-like appearance from the sea and pōhue for the convolvulus that flowers in the forest). Recognised as a place with special cultural significance to Kai Tahu, Motupōhue is a tōpuni site – derived from the traditional Ngai Tahu custom of rangatira (chiefs) extending their mana (power and authority) over areas or people by placing their cloaks over them.

Registered under the RAMSAR convention as a wetland of international significance, Waituna Lagoon and wetlands is signposted on SH92. It is an important habitat for birds, native fish and trout and is home to some unusual plants.