Last updated June 2026
Wachner Place is a small public reserve in the heart of Invercargill that serves as a convenient spot for locals and visitors to pause during city explorations. The space features open grass areas, seating, and a historic clock tower element. It sits at the intersection of key pedestrian routes and connects directly to the surrounding retail and civic precinct. Recent council decisions have shaped its immediate future, including a shift away from earlier clock tower redevelopment proposals. The reserve remains open to the public at all times as a free urban green space.
Practical Information
| Location | 20 Dee Street, Invercargill |
| Public toilets | 8am–8pm daily (closed Christmas Day); wheelchair accessible |
| Access | Pedestrian paths from Dee Street and Esk Street West |
| Parking | Street parking on Dee Street and Esk Street West |
| Status | Public reserve, open at all times, free entry |
| Bookings | Not available for private events |
About Wachner Place
Wachner Place occupies a central block in Invercargill bounded by Dee Street and Esk Street West. It provides a modest open space with lawns and seating that offers a quiet contrast to the adjacent commercial streets. The reserve was created to restore a sense of civic gathering space in the city centre after earlier buildings were removed.
The site is named after Abraham Wachner, who served as mayor of Invercargill from 1942 to 1950. Land contributions associated with the Wachner family helped establish the reserve, which was officially opened in 1989. A clock tower incorporating mechanisms from the former Littlejohn Bluff Post Office forms a notable feature, though plans for its full redevelopment were cancelled by council in April 2026.
Current council projects under the City Block West initiative focus on improving pedestrian connections along Esk Street West and enhancing the public realm around Wachner Place. These works prioritise wider footpaths, better lighting, and seating while limiting vehicle access to maintain a calm atmosphere.
History and Naming
Abraham Wachner served as Invercargill’s 35th mayor and was recognised for his community-focused leadership. The reserve honours his legacy and that of his family, who supported its creation. It was developed on the site of earlier commercial buildings and formally opened in 1989 by then-mayor Eve Poole to revive a central gathering area.
The clock tower draws on local heritage by reusing chimes from a historic post office. Although refurbishment work began in 2024, the council decided in April 2026 not to proceed with the more extensive redevelopment due to cost and other considerations.
Facilities and Access
Public toilets at Wachner Place operate daily from 8am to 8pm and are closed only on Christmas Day. They are maintained by the Invercargill City Council and listed as wheelchair accessible. Street parking is available on the surrounding roads, and the site is easily reached on foot from the city centre and nearby bus stops.
The reserve itself has no formal booking system and functions as an unreserved public space suitable for informal use such as picnics or short rests. Ongoing streetscape improvements aim to strengthen pedestrian links to adjacent developments including the Distinction Hotel precinct.
Community Use and Events
Wachner Place occasionally accommodates small public gatherings and local events organised by community groups or the council. Its central location and open layout make it a natural venue for informal meetups and occasional cultural or promotional activities. Larger or private functions are directed to other Invercargill venues.
Updates on any scheduled activities are available through the Invercargill City Council website and local community channels. The space remains primarily a passive public reserve rather than a programmed events venue.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the central location and easy pedestrian access when taking a break from shopping or city walks. Many note the clean toilets and convenient timing of their hours as practical benefits during daytime visits.
People describe the space as a simple, quiet spot for a quick rest or informal meetup rather than a major destination. Recent comments mention awareness of ongoing street improvements and the historic clock feature.
Where to Learn More
Invercargill City Council public toilets page: Current opening hours and accessibility details for the Wachner Place restroom.
Invercargill City Council news: April 2026 decision on the Wachner Place clock tower redevelopment.
Let’s Talk Invercargill – City Block West: Information on current pedestrian and public realm improvement plans affecting the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wachner Place open to the public at all times?
Yes, the reserve is a public space accessible at all times with no entry fees or gates.
What are the public toilet hours at Wachner Place?
The toilets operate daily from 8am to 8pm and are closed on Christmas Day. They are wheelchair accessible.
Can I book Wachner Place for a private event?
No, the space is not available for private bookings and functions as an unreserved public reserve.
Where can I park near Wachner Place?
Street parking is available on Dee Street and Esk Street West with direct pedestrian access to the reserve.
What is the status of the clock tower redevelopment?
Council decided in April 2026 not to proceed with the planned clock tower redevelopment project.
Are there regular events at Wachner Place?
The space occasionally hosts small community or council-organised gatherings; check the Invercargill City Council website for updates.
How do I reach Wachner Place by public transport?
Bus stops in the city centre are within easy walking distance via well-maintained pedestrian paths.
Is there any recent construction affecting the area?
Pedestrian improvements under the City Block West project are underway or planned around Esk Street West and Wachner Place.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.