Sports and Recreation Areas

Surrey Park Invercargill: Sports Complex Facilities and Events

Last updated June 2026

Surrey Park is Invercargill’s main sports and recreation hub, located in the Glengarry suburb. The complex provides multiple outdoor fields, an athletics track, an indoor velodrome and the ILT Stadium Southland for a wide range of sports and community activities. It serves local clubs, regional teams and visitors seeking active recreation or spectator events. The park includes a playground, public toilets and parking, with recent upgrades to the grandstand improving safety and usability.

Practical Information

Location Glengarry suburb, Invercargill, accessed via Isabella, Tay and Yarrow Streets
Key Facilities Three rugby grounds, three football grounds, four softball pitches, athletics track, SIT Zero Fees Velodrome, ILT Stadium Southland (indoor arena), squash courts, Clip n Climb, playground
Grandstand Built 1964; earthquake strengthening completed 2025
Playground 55 Isabella Street
Toilets Multiple, open 24 hours, opposite Stadium Southland
Parking On-site available
Access Generally free for grounds; fees may apply for events or specific venues
Bookings Available for facilities via Invercargill City Council or venue operators

About Surrey Park

Surrey Park occupies a central position in Invercargill’s sporting landscape as a multi-purpose reserve managed by the Invercargill City Council. It supports rugby, football, softball, athletics, cycling and indoor sports through dedicated grounds and buildings. The complex also hosts netball and basketball through resident regional teams.

The park’s outdoor areas include three rugby grounds, three football grounds, four softball pitches and a full athletics track. The SIT Zero Fees Velodrome provides New Zealand’s first indoor cycling facility, located adjacent to the ILT Stadium Southland. These venues accommodate both competitive training and casual use across age groups and skill levels.

Community facilities extend beyond sport to include a playground at 55 Isabella Street and picnic areas. Public toilets operate 24 hours a day. The grandstand, originally constructed in 1964, received earthquake strengthening work that was completed in 2025, allowing it to host national-level events again.

Surrey Park functions as a social and recreational anchor for Glengarry and greater Invercargill. Local clubs such as Waihopai AFC and Athletics Invercargill use the grounds regularly, while the indoor stadium supports major fixtures for the Southern Steel netball team and Southland Sharks basketball team.

Location and Access

Surrey Park lies in the Glengarry suburb, a short distance east of Invercargill city centre. Main vehicle access points are via Isabella Street, Tay Street and Yarrow Street, with proximity to State Highway 1 aiding regional visitors. On-site parking is provided for event days and general use.

Public transport connections exist through local bus routes serving the suburb. Pedestrian and cyclist access is straightforward from surrounding residential streets. The complex remains open year-round, though individual facility hours can vary with bookings or events.

Facilities and Activities

Outdoor sports fields cater to rugby, football and softball, with the athletics track supporting track and field events. The SIT Zero Fees Velodrome offers indoor track cycling sessions and competitions. ILT Stadium Southland provides a large indoor arena for netball, basketball, concerts and other events, along with squash courts and a Clip n Climb facility.

Clubrooms and storage buildings support local sporting associations. The playground offers equipment suitable for younger and older children. Spectator amenities include the upgraded grandstand and surrounding seating areas.

Events and Community Use

Surrey Park hosts regular club competitions, regional tournaments and occasional national events across multiple codes. The indoor stadium and velodrome attract visitors for high-profile matches and cycling meets. Community programmes and school sports days also take place on the grounds.

Bookings for private or group use of fields, courts or indoor spaces are managed through the Invercargill City Council or Stadium Southland operators. Event schedules are published on the respective websites.

What Visitors Often Say

Visitors appreciate the range of sports facilities in one location and note that the indoor stadium and velodrome are well maintained. Families mention the playground as a convenient addition for children while adults use the fields or watch events.

Reviewers describe easy parking and good access for spectators. Some comment that the complex feels busy during peak event times but remains a reliable venue for both training and watching local teams.

Where to Learn More

Invercargill City Council Parks and Recreation: Official information on Surrey Park facilities, bookings and playground details.

ILT Stadium Southland: Details on indoor events, the velodrome and current programmes at the complex.

Invercargill City Council News: Updates on the Surrey Park grandstand strengthening project.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the opening hours for Surrey Park?
Surrey Park grounds are generally accessible year-round. Specific facility hours, such as the velodrome or stadium, vary with events and bookings; check the Invercargill City Council or Stadium Southland websites for current schedules.

Is there an entry fee for Surrey Park?
Access to the outdoor grounds and playground is free. Fees apply for ticketed events, venue hire or certain indoor activities.

Are dogs allowed at Surrey Park?
Dogs are generally restricted in active sports areas and near the playground for safety and hygiene reasons. Check signage or council bylaws before visiting with pets.

Can facilities be booked for private use?
Yes, fields, courts and indoor spaces can be booked through the Invercargill City Council or Stadium Southland administration, subject to availability.

Is the grandstand open to the public?
The grandstand is available for spectator use following its 2025 earthquake strengthening upgrade and can now host national competitions.

Where is the playground located?
The Surrey Park Playground is at 55 Isabella Street and features equipment for a range of ages.

Which teams use the facilities?
Resident teams include the Southern Steel netball side and Southland Sharks basketball team, along with local clubs such as Waihopai AFC and Athletics Invercargill.

Is parking available on site?
Yes, on-site parking is provided for visitors and event attendees.

Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.