Last updated July 2026
Anderson Park is a 24-hectare public park on the northern outskirts of Invercargill featuring landscaped gardens, native bush, a historic homestead and family facilities. The park offers walking tracks through remnant native forest, picnic areas and an accessible playground. It serves as a convenient day trip destination for locals and visitors seeking a mix of nature, history and recreation close to the city centre. Access is straightforward via McIvor Road or through Donovan Park from Bainfield Road during daylight hours, with free parking available.
Practical Information
| Location | 91 McIvor Road, Invercargill |
| Size | 24 hectares |
| Access | McIvor Road; alternative via Bainfield Road through Donovan Park (daylight hours) |
| Playground | Accessible with inclusive roundabout |
| Facilities | Picnic areas, barbecue facilities, toilets, free parking |
| Entry | Free |
| Hours | Daylight hours (dawn to dusk) |
| Dogs | Permitted on leash |
| Management | Invercargill City Council |
About Anderson Park
Anderson Park originated from a 300-acre block purchased by Sir Robert Anderson in 1910. He preserved 50 acres of native bush and developed gardens on the property. Following his death in 1942 and his wife’s in 1951, the estate was gifted to the city as a public park in accordance with his wishes.
The park’s centrepiece is the Neo-Georgian homestead designed by architect Cecil Wood and completed in 1925. The house is registered as a Category 1 historic place and sits within formal gardens that provide seasonal colour and open lawns for picnics and gatherings.
A well-defined walking track leads through the native bush, which features kahikatea, rimu, thin-barked tōtara, matai, miro and pokaka. The bush represents typical pre-European vegetation of the Southland plains and offers a peaceful setting for walkers.
The park is managed by the Invercargill City Council with ongoing pest control to protect the native forest ecosystem. The grounds remain open to the public while conservation and maintenance work continues.
Anderson Park Playground
The playground at Anderson Park includes an all-inclusive roundabout designed for use by people in wheelchairs. It provides a family-friendly space within the park’s scenic setting and is suitable for visitors of varying abilities. The playground is maintained by the Invercargill City Council as part of its network of public play areas.
Te Wharepuni o Anehana
Te Wharepuni o Anehana is a carved Māori meeting house located in the bush behind the homestead. Sir Robert Anderson commissioned carvings from Ngāti Tarāwhai in Rotorua to create the replica whare whakairo. The structure is one of the oldest carved houses in the South Island and the southernmost example of work by a tohunga whakairo. Restoration work on the carvings began in 2025.
Walking and Picnicking
Visitors can enjoy a network of walking tracks through the native bush and formal garden areas. Spacious lawns provide space for picnics and social gatherings, with barbecue facilities and picnic shelters available for hire through the Invercargill City Council. The combination of bush, gardens and open space makes the park suitable for relaxed outdoor activities.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the peaceful bush walks and the variety of native trees visible along the tracks. Many note the playground’s inclusive features and the convenience of picnic areas with barbecue facilities.
Families often comment on the spacious lawns and easy parking, describing the park as a pleasant spot for a relaxed outing close to the city. Some mention the historic homestead as an attractive backdrop even when the building itself is not open for entry.
Where to Learn More
Invercargill City Council – Anderson Park: Official page with access details, history and facilities information.
Heritage New Zealand – Anderson House: Heritage listing and architectural details for the homestead.
Invercargill City Council – Playgrounds: Information on the Anderson Park playground and other local play spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Anderson Park open to the public?
Yes, the park grounds are open during daylight hours. The homestead building has limited public access while upgrades continue.
Are dogs allowed in Anderson Park?
Dogs are permitted but must be kept on a leash at all times.
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry to Anderson Park is free.
Can I book facilities for events?
Picnic shelters and barbecue areas are available for hire. Bookings are made through the Invercargill City Council.
Is the playground accessible?
Yes, the playground includes an all-inclusive roundabout suitable for wheelchair users.
What walking tracks are available?
A defined track leads through the native bush, passing kahikatea, rimu and other native trees.
Is Te Wharepuni o Anehana open to visitors?
The whare is on public display within the park, though restoration work on the carvings is underway.
Where can I find the latest updates?
Check the Invercargill City Council website for current park conditions and facility availability.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.