Invercargill invitations

Press, 15 April 1980, Page 15

Invercargill invitations

With the provision of accommodation and conference facilities, such as the recently opened Ascot Park Hotel-Motel, which must be near the top of the list in New Zealand, it is anticipated Invercargill will receive many more outside visitors than before.

A city with a population exceeding 50,000, Invercargill is an ideal base for motor touring throughout the province of Southland.

However, it also has its own attractions. What could be more inviting than 80 hectares of greenery in the heart of the city.

Invercargill has this in the form of Queens Park. Along with its gardens, trees and shrubs this park

has many other points of interest for adults and children alike. These include a wildlife sanctuary, . a children’s playing area and a fountain, which was donated by the Invercargill Licensing Trust. On the fringe of Queens Park can be found the Southland Centennial Museum and art gallery. This contains a variety of exhibits and displays and is open daily. Anderson Park, seven kilometres north of the city is a 24 hectare estate which was gifted to the city by the family of the late Sir Robert and Lady Anderson. This magnificent home surrounded by lawns and

gardens is well worth a visit.

Half day trips from Invercargill, include Bluff, Southland’s port and the site of a SIOM artifical island harbour. An extensive view can be gained from Observation Point at the top of Bluff Hill. Omaui, a popular beach is 25km from Invercargill or an extra 12km if it is visited on return from Bluff. Riverton, one of Southland’s main seaside resorts it also a base for fishing and a science centre for the surrounding farming area. Seaward Downs, Forest Hill, and Dolemore park are among the more wellknown names.