Last updated July 2026
At Demolition World in Invercargill, visitors discover an eccentric collection of salvaged buildings and curios assembled from a family scrap business into a mysterious small town atmosphere. This private attraction on the south side of the city offers a unique, immersive experience built from demolished structures and recycled items. The site began taking shape around 2003 when owners David and Lee Fallow started staging their salvage collection for public viewing. It provides an offbeat journey through recreated scenes including a church, pioneer kitchen, toy shop, and medical clinic.
Practical Information
| Address | 290 Bain Street, Invercargill 9812 |
| Entry | By donation (gold coin suggested) |
| Parking | Free on-site |
| Phone | (03) 216 2441 |
| da***@**********co.nz | |
| Hours | Variable; check Facebook or call ahead (often closed Mondays) |
About Demolition World
Demolition World extends from the Fallow family’s long-running scrap and demolition business. Salvaged materials from building demolitions, stock overruns, and rescues have been curated and staged into an elaborate, eerie village setting that blends the familiar with the exotic.
Key features include a rebuilt church scene, a pioneer kitchen, a toy shop, an imaginary medical and dental clinic, and a medieval-style banquet area populated by mannequins. Vintage mannequins from as early as the 1940s add to the quirky character, along with puppets and other curios. The owners are known for being welcoming and happy to share stories about the collection.
The attraction sits on the south side of Invercargill and functions partly as a salvage yard where recycled building supplies remain available for purchase. Its maze-like layout encourages wandering and discovery, creating a time-travel feel without formal museum structure.
Visitor Experience
Visitors often describe the site as one of Invercargill’s most unique and memorable stops. The combination of salvaged architecture, staged vignettes, and general atmosphere of creative reuse appeals to those seeking something different from standard museums or heritage sites.
Many appreciate the low-cost entry and the chance to wander freely through the recreated village scenes, noting the friendly owners and the sheer volume of interesting salvaged items on display.
Reviewers frequently mention the quirky, slightly creepy charm created by the mannequins and staged settings, while praising the opportunity to see local history preserved through recycled materials in an unconventional way.
Where to Learn More
Southland NZ: Official tourism listing with address, contact details and brief description.
Atlas Obscura: Detailed account of the site’s origins, key exhibits and visitor guidance.
Demolition World Facebook: Current opening hours and updates from the owners.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Demolition World located?
It is at 290 Bain Street on the south side of Invercargill.
How much does entry cost?
Entry is by donation, with a gold coin suggested.
Is there parking?
Yes, free parking is available on-site.
Are pets allowed?
Pet policies are not publicly detailed; contact the venue directly to confirm.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
Pathways may be uneven due to the salvaged and staged nature of the village; check with owners for current accessibility details.
Can I buy salvaged materials?
Yes, the site continues to operate as a source of recycled building supplies alongside the village display.
What are the opening hours?
Hours vary; recent examples include 9:30am to 1pm on some days, with closures on Mondays. Confirm via phone or Facebook before visiting.
Is photography allowed?
Visitors commonly take photos of the scenes and exhibits.
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