Last updated October 2026
Heidelberg is a residential suburb located in the southeastern part of Invercargill, New Zealand. It sits within the Southland region on the Southland Plains and offers a quiet suburban setting with convenient access to the city centre. The suburb features established housing stock alongside local green spaces and educational facilities that serve residents and families.
Official Suburb Facts
- Population (2023 Census)
- About 2,380, up 4% since 2018
- Land area
- 1.32 km²
- Location
- 2.8 km south-east of central Invercargill
- Council
- Invercargill City Council
- Getting there
- BusSmart Invercargill buses, including the Hargest and Waverley routes, to the central BusSmart Hub
- Schools
- Aurora College, St Patrick’s School (Invercargill)
- Nearby landmarks
- Elizabeth Park, Elizabeth Park BMX track
Who Lives in Heidelberg
About 2,380 residents in 840 households. From the 2023 Census, with the New Zealand figure alongside for comparison.
About Heidelberg
Heidelberg lies southeast of Invercargill city centre and forms part of the city’s southern residential areas. The suburb occupies flat terrain typical of the Southland Plains, with a history tied to the broader agricultural development of the region.
Elizabeth Park provides a major local green space covering more than 14 hectares. The park includes a playground and Invercargill’s primary BMX track, supporting family recreation and outdoor activities for residents.
Aurora College serves as the local secondary school, offering education with community-focused programs. Primary options nearby include schools such as St Patrick’s School and Ascot Community School.
Public transport connects Heidelberg to central Invercargill through BusSmart services. Current routes include Hargest and Waverley, with services operating on weekdays and Saturdays from the BusSmart Hub.
Location and Access
Heidelberg occupies a position that balances suburban quiet with proximity to Invercargill amenities. Major roads provide straightforward connections to the city centre and surrounding areas.
The suburb falls within the Invercargill City Council area, with services and infrastructure managed at the city level. Essential facilities such as healthcare and shopping are accessible via short drives or bus routes.
Demographics and Housing
The suburb reflects the broader demographic mix of Invercargill City, including European and Māori communities.
Housing in Heidelberg consists of a mix of established family homes and other residential properties. Property market information is available through real estate platforms, with demand influenced by the suburb’s location and amenities.
Near Heidelberg
Just outside Heidelberg, within 10 km of its centre, nearest first.
Places
Businesses
Where to Learn More
Wikipedia Heidelberg, New Zealand: Overview of suburb history, location and census population data.
Invercargill City Council Elizabeth Park page: Details on park facilities, size and access points.
Aurora College website: Information on the local secondary school and programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Elizabeth Park located?
Elizabeth Park is a large reserve in the Heidelberg area of South Invercargill, with car parks on John Street and Lime Street.
Which schools serve Heidelberg?
Aurora College provides secondary education, while nearby primary schools include St Patrick’s School and Ascot Community School.
Are there bus services in Heidelberg?
Yes, BusSmart Invercargill operates routes including Hargest and Waverley that connect the suburb to the city centre.
What recreational facilities are available locally?
Elizabeth Park offers a playground and the city’s main BMX track for outdoor recreation.
Is Heidelberg part of Invercargill City?
Yes, Heidelberg is a recognised suburb within the Invercargill City Council area in the Southland region.
What is Heidelberg’s best-known landmark?
Elizabeth Park, a large reserve with a playground and Invercargill’s main BMX track, is the suburb’s best-known landmark.
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Explore Invercargill only lists suburbs officially recognised by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), and Heidelberg is one of them. Suburb boundary: LINZ, CC BY 4.0.