How long does the walk to the pond at Bushy Point take?
InversCity guide
The walk to the pond takes about an hour return. The viewpoint is a shorter option at around 20 minutes return.
Invercargill Questions
Invercargill people helping Invercargill people. Ask about any place, or answer one for a local.
Which place is it about?
Can't see it?
Questions here are answered by locals.
Type of place
Are the grass tracks muddy after rain? Wondering if a pram would cope.
Is there parking at Kingswood Bush Scenic Reserve?
InversCity guide
Yes, park on the roadside next to the reserve on Woodlands-Morton Mains Road. Turn right onto Flemington Road in Woodlands off SH1, then go 1.8 km and the reserve is on your right.
How muddy does the track get after rain, and is it still okay in normal shoes?
How long does the Seaward Bush walk take?
InversCity guide
About 40 minutes return. The figure-eight loop is 2805 m, and both tracks start from the sheltered picnic area.
Can you get a pram round the loop okay, or does it get muddy after rain?
Are there toilets at both ends of the Forest Hill reserve?
InversCity guide
Yes. Tussock Creek Picnic Area has a toilet block, and the Forest Hill North end has a single toilet.
Has anyone taken a pram along the Derek Turnbull Track? Is it smooth enough?
Is there car parking at Elizabeth Park?
InversCity guide
Yes, there are car parks off John Street and Lime Street. The park can also be reached from Rimu Street and Lauder Crescent.
Is the playground fenced, or can little ones wander off towards the road?
Is there a walking path through Waverley Park?
InversCity guide
Yes, a pedestrian pathway runs through the park linking King Street and Joseph Street. You can also walk in from St Andrew, Exmouth and Ward Streets.
Is there any decent shade near the playground or fields on a sunny afternoon?
Is there a nearby playground with an infant swing for a baby?
InversCity guide
Yes, Derwent Crescent Playground at 132 Derwent Crescent, in the same Glengarry/Hawthorndale area, has a double swing with an infant seat, plus a seesaw and slide.
Is there a tap or drinking fountain at Arun Crescent, or should I bring water?
Is Russell Square Playground fully fenced for little kids?
InversCity guide
Yes, the playground is fully fenced, so it works well for families with young children who like to wander.
Are dogs allowed on the grass around the playground, or do most people leave them at home?
How long was the Surrey Park grandstand closed for earthquake strengthening?
InversCity guide
The earthquake strengthening took eight months. The grandstand can now support local teams and host national competitions again.
Is there much shade around the fields and grandstand on a sunny afternoon?
Is there a skatepark at Turnbull Thomson Park?
InversCity guide
Yes, there's a skateboard park in the park. It was built in the 1990s while the stop banks were being constructed.
Is the playground at the Tay Street entrance fenced off from the road?
Is there a BBQ at Teviot Street Reserve, or do people bring their own gear?
Is there parking at Makarewa Domain?
InversCity guide
Yes, there's a car park off Flora Road East, and on-street parking is also available nearby.
Are there toilets at the domain, and are they unlocked outside of sports days?
Are the netball and tennis courts at Myross Bush Domain lit at night?
InversCity guide
Yes, the concrete netball and tennis courts at Myross Bush Domain have lights.
Is there much shade around the fields and seesaw in the afternoon?
Where are the entrances to McQuarrie Park in South Invercargill?
InversCity guide
You can walk in from McQuarrie Street or from the corner of Lancaster and Albany Streets. Pathways lead to the play equipment at the north end of the park.
Is the play area fenced off from the road, or can kids wander out easily?
What is the main threat to the forest at Kew Bush?
InversCity guide
Weed invasion is the main threat to this kahikatea forest remnant. Ongoing weed and animal pest control and native planting are used to protect it.
Are there any public toilets near Kew Bush, or do you need to go into the hospital?
Is there a basketball hoop at the O'Byrne Street playground?
InversCity guide
Yes, O'Byrne Street Playground has a basketball hoop, along with a double swing and a seesaw. It's at 4 O'Byrne Street.
Is there any water play here, or a tap the kids can use on hot days?
Is there parking near the Waiau Crescent playground?
InversCity guide
Yes, there's on-street parking nearby. The playground is reached from Waiau Crescent, so you can park along the street.
Is the playground fenced off from the road, or can kids wander out easily?
Is there parking at Surrey Park near the playground?
InversCity guide
Yes, the park has parking areas, with pathways linking the playground to the other facilities. You can drive in via Isabella Street or the nearby arterial roads.
Is the playground fenced off from the car park and the sports fields?
How do I get into Talbot Street Reserve to reach the playground?
InversCity guide
Walk in from Talbot Street opposite Fern and Rowan Streets, or via Salford School Grounds, Roseburn Place or Racecourse Road. Vehicles aren't allowed on the reserve.
Is there any water play here, or does the old river bed get wet after heavy rain?
How far is Grant Road Reserve from the centre of Invercargill?
InversCity guide
It's about 6 km from central Invercargill, out at 123 Grant Road in the suburb of Otatara.
Is the grass by the road okay for a pram, and can you get one into the bush?
Is there a barbecue at Kennington Reserve?
InversCity guide
Yes, there's a concrete barbecue built into the bank, on the large grassed area at the reserve.
Is the swing area fenced off from the road, or is it open to the street?
What is Waikiwi Memorial Park inside the domain?
InversCity guide
It is the district's Second World War memorial, with memorial gates honouring the Waikiwi men who served. It was officially opened in February 1954.
Is it easy to get a pram around the playground and across the grass?
Is there a grassy area for kids to run around at Wagner Street?
InversCity guide
Yes, there is an open grassy area for informal play next to the seesaw, double swing and slide.
Does the playground get busy after school, and is it quiet in the mornings?
Is there a shorter option than the full 4.7 km Estuary Walkway loop?
InversCity guide
Yes, there's a shorter walk to an elevated viewpoint with views over the estuary and Pleasure Bay lagoon, if you don't want to do the whole loop.
Has anyone taken an e-bike round the Estuary Walkway? Any rules about them?
Where do you park for Pine Crescent Playground?
InversCity guide
Park along the residential streets nearby. Spaces can be limited during peak times.
Is the playground fenced, or is it open to the street?
Are there other playgrounds in Appleby near Panton Street?
InversCity guide
Yes, Russell Square in the Town Belt at 191 Elles Road and Ettrick Street Reserve at 148-154 Bowmont Street are also in Appleby, so you can combine playground visits.
Is there a public toilet anywhere near the Panton Street playground?
Is there a way up to the top of Monkey Island?
InversCity guide
Yes, a stairway leads up to the top of the island. From the summit you get views over Te Waewae Bay and toward the distant Fiordland mountains.
Is the water safe for swimming here, or are there rips and strong currents?
What is the track surface like on the way up to Hatch's Hill Lookout?
InversCity guide
It's a mix of dirt and gravel with gentle inclines and the odd root. Sturdy footwear is a good idea for the uneven sections.
Can you take a bike up to the lookout, or is it walking only?
How far out of Invercargill is the Daffodil Bay track?
InversCity guide
It's in Sandy Point Domain, about 7 km west of Invercargill, on a sand and shingle peninsula between the Oreti River and Foveaux Strait.
Can you get a pram around the loop, or is it too rough in places?
What is the surface like on the Otatara loop track?
InversCity guide
The loop is undulating, with a mix of soil and boardwalk underfoot. It starts and finishes at the picnic shelter and car park off Dunns Road.
Do the soil parts of the track get muddy after rain? Thinking of taking a pram.
How do I get to Sandy Point Domain from Invercargill?
InversCity guide
Take Dunns Road from Otatara to Sandy Point Road, the main road into the reserve. It's sealed up to the Daffodil Bay Road turnoff, and Pit Road gives access to some areas.
Is Petrie's Track manageable in a wheelchair, or is the gravel too soft in places?
How long should I wait to swim at Taramea Bay after heavy rain?
InversCity guide
Stay out of the water for 2 to 3 days after heavy or prolonged rain. Water quality can change quickly, especially after rain, so check the latest LAWA results for the bay before you swim.
Is there anywhere to rinse off after a swim at Taramea Bay, like an outdoor shower?
Are there any steep sections on the Foveaux Walkway?
InversCity guide
Yes, the Millennium Track from Lookout Point up to the Bluff Hill summit is very steep uphill. Allow about 45 minutes. It has great sea views across to Rakiura along the way.
How windy does it get on the Foveaux Walkway, and is it still okay on a rough day?
Where does the Otepuni Walkway start and finish?
InversCity guide
It starts at the Clyde Street bridge over Otepuni Stream and heads east through Otepuni Gardens to finish at Rockdale Road.
Is the Otepuni path sealed all the way, or does it turn to gravel in places?
Is the lower Ōreti near Invercargill a good spot to take kids fishing?
InversCity guide
Yes, the tidal lower stretch near West Plains is a great place to introduce kids to bait fishing. It holds good numbers of medium sized trout, with the odd large one.
Are there changing rooms near the swimming spots, or do you just get changed at the car?
Is there a playground right by the Waihopai Walkway?
InversCity guide
Yes, Holywood Terrace Reserve backs onto the walkway and has a playground near its centre. You can reach it from Holywood Terrace.
Are there any taps or drinking water along the track, or should I bring my own?
Is there a shop in Waikawa or should I bring food with me?
InversCity guide
Bring food with you. Waikawa has very limited services, so most people stock up beforehand or stop in nearby towns like Tokanui or Owaka.
Can you take a dog around the harbour and along the shore at Waikawa?
What months can you fish for chinook salmon on the Waiau River?
InversCity guide
Chinook salmon can be targeted from November to March. The Waiau is the only Southland river where you can go for brown trout, rainbow trout and chinook salmon.
Are there any toilets near the river access points, or is it best to go before you leave Te Anau?
Where is the Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre in Te Anau?
InversCity guide
The visitor centre is at 1 Lakefront Drive, Te Anau 9600. It's the Te Rua-o-te-Moko Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre, on the lakefront.
Are there public toilets near the lakefront if you head down for sunrise?
Can I fly a drone around the Catlins coast for photos?
InversCity guide
Not without a permit. Flying a drone without one is strictly prohibited on the Catlins conservation land.
Anyone know how long the George Aitken Walk takes? Is it doable in under 15 minutes?
What was the Pleasure Bay area before it became a walking and cycling spot?
InversCity guide
Pleasure Bay was part of an old Invercargill landfill used for reclamation. The landfill closed in 2004 and was converted into a recreation area with walking and cycling tracks.
Are there toilets along the estuary track, or only near the car parks?
Is the Aparima fly fishing only, or can you use bait and lures?
InversCity guide
No, it's not fly only. The lower river suits bait, soft baits, lures and streamers, as well as fly fishing with dry flies or nymphs. The tidal zone fishes well too.
Are there any toilets near the river access points around Riverton?
Was Lake Manapouri used as a filming location for any movies?
InversCity guide
Yes, landscape shots of the lake were used for the scenic frames where the Company flees on the backs of eagles. The Waiau River between Manapouri and Te Anau was also used on screen.
Anyone caught sunrise at Manapouri? Does the light reach the lake early or do the mountains block it?
Is there a car park at Toetoes Bay or do you park on the road?
InversCity guide
You park informally by the roadside. Access is via State Highway 92.
Are there any picnic tables at Toetoes Bay, or do you just sit on the beach?
How far is Mataura from Invercargill by road?
InversCity guide
Mataura is 53 km north-east of Invercargill, reached on State Highway 1.
Is there a usable boat ramp on the lower Mataura below Mataura Island Bridge?
Is there somewhere to sit at Wachner Place?
InversCity guide
Yes, Wachner Place has seating as well as open grass areas, so it works for a quick break during a walk around the city.
Do dogs have to stay on a lead at Wachner Place, or is there room to let them off?
Can I light a fire or have a campfire at Waituna Lagoon?
InversCity guide
No, don't light any fires at Waituna Lagoon, the wetland or along the coast. Wetlands burn very easily, so fires are not allowed anywhere around there.
Are there any steep bits on the 5 km loop, or is it pretty flat the whole way?
How cold is the water at Colac Bay through the year?
InversCity guide
The sea is coldest in August at about 9 to 11°C and warmest in February at about 12 to 15°C. It is cold year-round, so expect to want a wetsuit.
Anywhere to rinse off after a surf at Colac Bay, or are there no showers?
Where can you walk into Thomsons Bush from?
InversCity guide
You can enter from Queens Drive, Waihopai Walkway, Gimblett Street or Preston Street. The tracks run through the bush on both sides of Queens Drive.
Do the tracks get muddy or boggy after heavy rain?
Are there toilets at the Mavora Lakes campsite, and can wheelchair users get in?
InversCity guide
Yes, the campsite has toilets and they are wheelchair accessible.
How sheltered are the camping spots from the wind?
Can you go inside the Waipapa Point lighthouse?
InversCity guide
No, you can't go inside. The lighthouse is still active, and there is no public access to enter the building, but it's a short walk from the car park to see it up close.
Do people bike out to the lighthouse, or is it best left to walkers?
Are there good spots for a picnic at Otepuni Gardens?
InversCity guide
Yes, picnic spots are scattered throughout the park. The playground sits amid garden beds and open lawn, so parents can easily supervise kids while enjoying the plantings.
Is the playground any good for toddlers, or is it more for older kids?
Which roads lead into Anderson Park?
InversCity guide
The main way in is off McIvor Road, north of the city. During the day you can also come in from Bainfield Road through Donovan Park.
Is it easy to get a pram around the playground and the paths nearby?
What can you see from the lookout at Omaui Reserve?
InversCity guide
The lookout platform on the loop track has panoramic views over the Invercargill Estuary and Sandy Point, with the Takitimu Range on the horizon.
Is the walk up to the lookout steep anywhere, or is it fairly gentle all the way?
Where exactly is the Clifden Suspension Bridge?
InversCity guide
It's on State Highway 99, about 16 km north of Tuatapere in Southland.
Is it free to visit, or is there a charge for parking or a donation box?
Does the Queens Park playground in Invercargill have water play?
InversCity guide
Yes, the playground has water play areas, along with nature play elements for kids.
Is the playground fenced, or is it open to the rest of the park?
Can I have a drink at Gala Street Reserve?
InversCity guide
No, alcohol is banned in Gala Street Reserve. The ban area is bounded by Queens Drive, Gala Street, Dee Street and Victoria Ave.
How are the lawns and paths for a wheelchair, especially after rain?
What does my van need to count as certified self-contained at Colac Bay?
InversCity guide
It needs its own water supply, sink and toilet, waste tank and refuse container. A current self-contained warrant must also be displayed in the window.
How full does the Colac Bay freedom camping area get in summer, and what time should I arrive?
Can I walk down to the beach at Roaring Bay to see the penguins?
InversCity guide
Not after 3 pm. Stay off the beach then and watch from the hide, where the yellow-eyed penguins can be seen coming ashore in the late afternoon.
Are there any seats or benches along the track or at the lighthouse platform?
Is the road to Curio Bay sealed if I drive via Otara?
InversCity guide
No, much of the road between Otara and Curio Bay is unsealed. The more direct route runs through Tokanui and Waikawa, with a stop possible at Waipapa Point if you go via Otara.
Is it easy to find a park at Curio Bay in summer, or does the roadside parking fill up?
What's on the signpost at Slope Point?
InversCity guide
The AA signpost shows the distance to the Equator and the South Pole. A small solar-powered lighthouse also stands on the farmland nearby.
Has anyone been to Slope Point for sunset? Is the walk back okay as the light fades?
How long does it take to drive to Gemstone Beach from Invercargill?
InversCity guide
Allow about an hour. Invercargill is roughly an hour east of Orepuki and Gemstone Beach, so it works well as a day trip.
Is it worth getting there for sunrise, or do the dunes and cliffs get in the way?
Are the bikes behind glass or can you get up close?
InversCity guide
You can get right up close. There are no glass cases at Classic Motorcycle Mecca, so you can inspect the finer details of the bikes.
How long do people usually spend going through the whole collection?
Is it cheaper or better to buy Transport World tickets online?
InversCity guide
Buying online gets you a free standard coffee at The Grille café with every adult or senior ticket, and it helps you beat the queue at the door.
Do the vehicles have decent info boards, or is it mostly just cars to look at?
What are the SIT library opening hours during term time?
InversCity guide
Term time hours are Monday to Thursday 8am to 7pm, Friday 8am to 5pm and Saturday 10am to 2pm. It is closed on Sundays. Vacation hours are shorter and weekends are closed.
Is it easy to find a park near the SIT library on Tay Street during the day?
What hours is the Civic Theatre box office open?
InversCity guide
The booking office sells tickets Monday to Friday, 11am to 3pm, and the venue is open 10am to 4pm on those days. You can phone on (03) 211 1777.
Is it worth dropping in on a wet day when there's no show on, or is it only open for events?
What does self-contained actually mean for camping at Waikawa?
InversCity guide
Your vehicle needs its own water supply, sink, toilet, waste tank and refuse container. A current self-contained warrant must also be displayed in the window.
How full does Waikawa get in summer and what time do you need to arrive for a spot?
What are the opening hours at Invercargill Public Library?
InversCity guide
The library is open 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday, and 10am to 4pm on weekends. It's on Dee Street.
How easy is the library to get around with a wheelchair or mobility scooter?
What's the phone number for He Waka Tuia if I want to check something before going?
InversCity guide
You can ring He Waka Tuia on (03) 211 8408. The website is hewakatuia.nz if you'd rather look online first.
Are the information panels easy to read, or is there a lot of small text?
Is there another way into the park besides Pearce Street?
InversCity guide
Yes, there are extra access points at Walker Street and Stirling Point. They suit shorter walks or scenic entries into the park.
How steep is the climb on the easier loops from the Pearce Street car park?
Who made the wrought iron work on the Troopers Memorial?
InversCity guide
George Bissett made the memorial's wrought iron features. City architect John Rust supervised the erection of the pillars.
Where do you park to visit the Troopers Memorial? Is it easy to find a spot nearby?
What is there to see at Demolition World in Invercargill?
InversCity guide
You'll find a rebuilt church, a pioneer kitchen, a toy shop, an imaginary medical and dental clinic, and a medieval-style banquet area filled with mannequins.
Is it a good stop with young kids, or are the mannequins a bit much for them?
Can you actually go aboard the old oyster boat Monica at the Bluff Maritime Museum?
InversCity guide
Yes, you can climb aboard the Monica and explore the whole boat. She sits high and dry next to the museum, built in 1909 and part of the old Bluff oyster fleet.
How long do people usually spend going through the Bluff Maritime Museum?
Where do I park when visiting the BMX tracks at Elizabeth Park?
InversCity guide
There are car parks off John Street and Lime Street.
Is there a drinking fountain near the BMX tracks or should I bring my own water?
How far is Orepuki camping area from Invercargill?
InversCity guide
It's about 66 km, roughly a 50 to 52 minute drive. You head along State Highway 99, then take a short detour off it to reach the site.
How exposed is the camping area to wind when parked near the beach?
Do I share the trail with walkers?
InversCity guide
Yes. The final 16 km between Awarua and Bluff is a sealed path shared by walkers and cyclists, and it is kept off the highway.
Would a primary school kid on their own bike manage it, or is it too far?
Can you get in a replica of Burt Munro's streamliner for a photo?
InversCity guide
Yes, you can squeeze into a full size replica of Burt's Streamliner for a photo. It's a fun way to imagine what it was like on the Bonneville Salt Flats.
Does anyone give a talk on the Indian Scout, or do you just wander round by yourself?
What days and hours is Te Hīkoi Museum open?
InversCity guide
It's open 7 days a week. Hours are 10am to 5pm from Labour weekend to Easter weekend, and 10am to 4pm after Easter until before Labour weekend. Closed Christmas Day and Good Friday.
Does it work as a rainy day stop, or does it get crowded when the weather turns?
Has the Invercargill Water Tower ever been restored?
InversCity guide
Yes, it was restored in 1989 to protect the structure and mark its centenary. The City Council did the work, with Fletcher Development as main contractor.
Are there any public toilets near the tower or in the gardens next to it?
Is there parking close to the Fire Museum in Invercargill?
InversCity guide
Yes, there is street parking nearby, so you can park close to the museum and walk straight in.
Are volunteers usually there on open days to talk about the fire engines?
Is the Otatara pump track okay for beginners?
InversCity guide
Yes, it suits beginners as well as more experienced riders. There are multiple lines, so you can progress your skills as you get more confident.
Is it easy to find a park near the track on weekends?
Is it easy to get access to fish along the Aparima River?
InversCity guide
Yes, angler access is exceptionally good along the whole length of the Aparima, so you're rarely stuck for a spot to get in.
How's the parking near The Rocks on a sunny weekend, does it fill up?
Where do I turn off Chaslands Highway for McLean Falls?
InversCity guide
Turn onto Rewcastle Road, 11.6 km south of Papatowai. The car park is a further 3 km along the road.
Has anyone taken a pram along the McLean Falls track, or is it too uneven?
Is there a viewing platform at Matai Falls?
InversCity guide
Yes, there's a wooden platform built into the bed of the stream. It's a convenient spot to view the 10 metre high Matai Falls.
Has anyone got a pram along the track to Matai Falls, or is it too rough?
Can I bring my dog when fishing the lower Ōreti at Sandy Point?
InversCity guide
Yes, Sandy Point Domain is a dog exercise area. Dogs can be off lead except around playgrounds and on formed walking tracks.
How far is the walk from where you park to the water on the lower Ōreti?
How hard is the trailhead to spot from the road, and is the gravel pull-off easy to miss?
What's the driving route to Seaward Downs Scenic Reserve from Invercargill?
InversCity guide
Head east on SH1 for 16 km, turn right onto Woodlands-Morton Mains Road, right onto Dacre-Morton Mains Road, then left onto Tramway Road West for 1.5 km. The reserve is on the right.
Has anyone taken a wheelchair around the loop? Wondering about roots, steps or soft patches.
Is there anywhere near Morrisons Beach where swimming isn't allowed?
InversCity guide
Yes, don't swim within 50 m of the Bluff boat ramp. Boats must also keep to 5 knots within 200 m of shore, so watch for boat traffic.
Is it shallow and gentle enough for young kids to paddle, or does it drop off quickly?
Does the Turnbulls track go through private land?
InversCity guide
Yes, part of the track crosses private land, so access may be restricted at certain times of year. Check before you head out.
Are there any steep or tricky sections on the Turnbulls track?
Was there really a Chinese settlement at Round Hill?
InversCity guide
Yes. By 1882 about 500 Chinese people lived at the Round Hill township, called Canton. It was the largest Chinese settlement in New Zealand.
Can you get a pram around Long Hilly, or is the track too rough?
Can I walk up to the Bluff Hill summit from this track?
InversCity guide
Yes. At Lookout Point, turn left up the Millennium Track to reach the Motupōhue summit. You can also go back the way you came.
Are there any steep bits on the way to Lookout Point, or is it fairly flat?
Is there parking at both ends of the Glory Track?
InversCity guide
Yes. There's parking at Stirling Point, where the public toilets are, and alternative parking at the end of Gunpit Road.
Are there any steep or hard going bits on the Glory Track?
What is the address of Invercargill Skate Park?
InversCity guide
The skate park is at 57 Elles Road in Invercargill. It has a bowl and ramps.
Is there a public toilet within walking distance of the skate park on Elles Road?
Can I walk on to Kings Rock from the Picnic Point Track at Papatowai?
InversCity guide
Yes, there is an extension to Kings Rock that takes 20 minutes each way from the junction. Most of it crosses private land, so stay on the track.
Is it easy to find parking near the beach at Papatowai in summer?
How much does it cost to camp at Piano Flat?
InversCity guide
It's $10 a night for adults and $5 a night for children aged 5 to 17. Infants aged 0 to 4 are free.
Is it realistic to get a wheelchair to the water at any of the beats or Piano Flat?
How far is Purakaunui Falls from Owaka?
InversCity guide
Purakaunui Falls is about 17 km southwest of Owaka.
Has anyone taken a pram down past the top platform to the lower views?
Is there anything to see partway round the Forks Flat Track loop?
InversCity guide
Yes, midway round the loop you come out into a large grassy clearing that is often full of butterflies of various species. It's a nice spot to stop before the track carries on through the bush.
Has anyone taken a pram around the loop past the waterfall? How did it go?
How do I pay the Bluff boat ramp fee?
InversCity guide
For a casual launch, use the Tap n Go terminal on site or the ParkEasy app. You can also pay online through the permit portal, which is the only way to pay for an annual permit.
Is it okay to bring a dog along the foreshore when fishing at Bluff?
Is the road into Sandy Point Domain sealed all the way?
InversCity guide
Sandy Point Road is sealed only as far as the Daffodil Bay Road turnoff. To reach it, follow Dunns Road from Otatara.
Is there anywhere to rinse off the sand and salt after a swim at Oreti?
Are the tracks down to Bathing Beach steep, and does high tide cut the beach off?
InversCity guide
Yes, both tracks down to Bathing Beach have steps and are reasonably steep. At high tide a rocky headland divides the beach in half, and at low tide you can walk its whole length.
Is there much shade at Bathing Beach in the afternoon, or is it all open sun?
When did the logging start in Pourakino Valley, and who ran it?
InversCity guide
More & Sons got the milling rights in 1900. They built three sawmills in the valley, plus several tramways and bridges to move the timber.
Would a pram manage the loop, or is the track too rough?
Do the huts on the North West Circuit have gas, lights or power?
InversCity guide
No. None of the huts have gas cooking, lighting, power or toilet paper, so carry your own stove, light and toilet paper.
Where do you leave a car or spare gear at Halfmoon Bay while doing the circuit?
How much of the Fortrose Estuary is exposed at low tide?
InversCity guide
About half of it. The estuary has extensive mudflats, with around 50% of its area exposed at low tide, plus saltmarsh areas.
Can you park close to the water along Boat Harbour Road, or is it a walk in?
Is the New River Estuary clean enough to fish and swim in?
InversCity guide
The estuary is in very poor condition, with heavy seaweed beds, oxygen-starved mud and seagrass loss. People still fish, boat and swim there, but take care with the water.
Is it an easy walk from the car to Stead Street wharf?
Can I take my dog on the Waipohatu Waterfalls Track?
InversCity guide
Yes, dogs are allowed on the Waipohatu Waterfalls Track, but they must stay on a leash the whole way.
Is there anywhere at either fall that's good for a swim in summer?
Can I phone for river levels before heading out to fish the Makarewa?
InversCity guide
Yes. Ring 03 211 5010 for an automated message with up to date river levels and rainfall at sites across Southland.
Has anyone got a wheelchair down to the river at Collean Street? Is the ground firm and flat?
Where on the Waihōpai should I look for flounder?
InversCity guide
Try the tidal lower reach near the estuary, where the river runs into the New River Estuary on the western edge of Invercargill.
Is there anywhere to launch a small boat or kayak on the Waihōpai?
Does the Martin's Hut/Merrivale track go through private land?
InversCity guide
Yes, part of the track crosses private land, so access may be restricted at certain times of year. Check with DOC before you head out.
Are there any toilets at the road end where you start, or is it all bush?
Are there toilets at the Dunns Road car park, or should I go before I get there?
Can I take my dog with me when fishing at Mavora Lakes?
InversCity guide
Yes, dogs are allowed in the park if you keep them under control. They must be on a leash in the camping areas and at hut sites, and they are not allowed inside the huts.
Is North Mavora a good spot for kids to have a first go at fishing?
Where do I park when fishing at Awarua Bay?
InversCity guide
Park at the Muddy Creek parking area. Turn left onto Awarua Bay Road just before the bridge towards the Tiwai smelter and follow the road along to it.
Has anyone taken a dog along the shore here? Any issues with the wetland birds?
Will there be surfers in the water where I want to fish at Colac Bay?
InversCity guide
Yes, expect surfers when the waves are good, especially around the western point. The bay is best known for surfing, so fish away from them.
Does anyone fly fish off the beach or reef at Colac Bay, or is it all bait and lures?
Is Waituna a good spot to bring kids who are just learning to fish?
How good is the water quality in the Waimatuku Stream?
InversCity guide
Water quality is poor in many parts of the catchment. Excess sediment, nitrogen, phosphorus and E. coli are the main issues, so think twice before swimming or letting dogs drink.
Is there room to pull off and park safely near the road bridges?
How far is the Humboldt Falls walk return?
InversCity guide
It's 1.2 km return on the same track, about 30 minutes. The track is graded easy to intermediate, with a short climb through rainforest to the lookout.
Has anyone taken a dog to Humboldt Falls? Were there any signs about it at the start?
How far is Lake Marian Falls from Te Anau?
InversCity guide
Marian Corner is about 87 km along the Milford Road from Te Anau. From there the car park is 1 km down the unsealed Hollyford Road, and the falls are a short walk beyond it.
Is the track to the falls okay for a pram, or is it too rough with the swing bridge?
Is the Chasm walk wheelchair accessible?
InversCity guide
Yes, it's a wheelchair accessible short walk. It's 400 m return on the same track and takes about 20 minutes.
Has anyone taken a dog to The Chasm? Not sure if they're allowed on the walk.
Is there any mobile coverage at Tawanui campsite?
InversCity guide
No, there's no mobile coverage at Tawanui campsite. It's an isolated spot in a clearing beside the Catlins River, reached by a narrow gravel road.
Is the gravel road in to The Wisp okay for a normal car after rain?
Can I have a campfire at Dunsdale?
InversCity guide
No, open fires aren't allowed at the Southland council freedom camping sites, so a campfire is out at Dunsdale.
Is the camping area flat enough for a campervan, or is the ground uneven?
Is the stream water safe to drink on Stewart Island or do I need to treat it?
InversCity guide
Treat it first. There have been no reports of giardia on the island, but all stream water should be treated, or fill your containers before leaving huts.
Is a day trip from Bluff long enough to see much of the park?
How often are the toilets in the Catlins cleaned outside summer?
InversCity guide
Outside the peak summer season, Catlins toilets are only serviced once a fortnight, including a toilet paper restock. Use toilet paper sparingly in the off-peak period.
Which of these walks do young kids manage on their own legs without getting tired?
Who looks after Mores Scenic Reserve?
InversCity guide
Southland District Council looks after the reserve. It is at 163 Richard Street, Riverton, on Howells Hill overlooking Riverton/Aparima.
Is the car park big enough on a busy weekend, or do people end up parking on the road?
Is Donovan Park flat to walk around?
InversCity guide
Not quite. It looks basically flat at first glance, but the ground is gently contoured and undulating, so expect some mild rolling slopes.
Is there a playground at Donovan Park for the kids?
How often are the toilets in the Catlins cleaned and restocked outside summer?
InversCity guide
Outside the peak summer season the Catlins toilets are only serviced once a fortnight, including a toilet paper restock. Use toilet paper sparingly in the off-peak months.
Are sea lions often on or beside the track to the Waipapa Point lighthouse?
Are there mountain bike trails at Sandy Point Domain, and are they open?
InversCity guide
Yes, there are mountain bike trails, but they are only partially open at present. Check the map of open and closed trails, parking areas and access points before you head out.
Is the Silver Lagoon Loop easy to follow, and roughly how long does it take?
How do I spot the museum entrance from the Bluff Highway?
InversCity guide
When it's open, look for signs 200m either side of the entrance and an Open flag at the main road gate. The museum building is about 1km along the driveway, on the right beside a cattle-stop.
Is there room to park right by the museum, or do you end up leaving the car on the road?
Can I run a generator at the Thornbury camping area?
InversCity guide
Yes, but only between 8am and 9pm, to keep noise down for other campers. Outside those hours, switch it off.
How are the sandflies at the Thornbury camping area, and is it sheltered from the wind?
Why is the Esk Street building on the Invercargill trail called the WEA Building?
InversCity guide
The Workers' Educational Association moved in after David Strang's coffee and spice business left the site in 1966. The building was put up in 1912 for Strang.
Are the Don Street facades and Bank Corner worth a stop if you're short on time?
Where exactly is the Sir Joseph Ward statue in Bluff?
InversCity guide
It stands at the intersection of Blackwater, Gore and Shannon Streets in Bluff.
Is parking easy at most of the stops, like Stirling Point and the cemetery?
What counts as self-contained for the blue site at Fortrose?
InversCity guide
It needs its own water supply, sink, toilet, waste tank and rubbish container, with a current self-contained warrant displayed in the window.
How exposed is Fortrose to wind and does it get busy on summer weekends?
Can I fly a drone in Fiordland National Park?
InversCity guide
No, not without a permit. Flying a drone in the park without one is strictly prohibited.
How busy does the Milford Road get in summer and where do people park at the popular stops?
Is there a bar at the Rep theatre on Esk Street?
InversCity guide
Yes, the front of house area has a reception space with bar facilities.
Is it easy to find a park on Esk Street when a show is on?
Can I join the Invercargill Bluff Trail at Greenpoint?
InversCity guide
Yes, you can join or leave the Invercargill Bluff Trail at Greenpoint, about 3 km from the Bluff end. The whole off-road trail is roughly 25 km long.
Is there any drinking water at Greenpoint, or should I bring my own?
Nothing here right now.