Riversdale

Riversdale is a small rural town located between the Hokonui Hills and the Mataura River in the centre of the Waimea Plains. While winters here can be cold and wet during summer, however, the Riversdale region is one of the few areas in Southland prone to drought.

Each year Riversdale Community Centre holds the Riversdale Arts Mixed Media Exhibition, an annual visual feast of outstanding artwork that runs over a 10-day period. If you like to swing a club, there is a testing 9-hole golf course that is worth playing. To spend a night in town, you can go to Riversdale Hotel. It's a nice country hotel that was originally established in 1880 and has been restored to its former glory.

A 40-minute drive from Riversdale will take you to Piano Flat, a lovely picnic and camping area along the Waikaia River. Gore is about a half-hour drive away from Riversdale.

Welcome Rock Trails in Northern Southland
Ben Arthur

Accommodation

Accommodation

There are plenty of hotels, motels, holiday homes, B&B’s and farmstays spread around Northern Southland, providing accommodation for every itinerary and budget.  Read More

Northern Southland Biking - Welcome Rock Trails
Videocopter NZ

Things To Do

Things To Do

Northern Southland offers plenty to see and do – particularly if you like mountain biking, are searching for back country adventure, or want to experience the Southland farming lifestyle. Read More

Around the Mountains Cycle Trail, Lumsden
Chris McLennan

Lumsden

Lumsden

Lumsden is Northern Southland’s main hub and a major travellers junction, providing access to Invercargill, Queenstown, Fiordland, and Gore. Read More

Around The Mountains Cycle Trail, Garston
Great South

Garston

Garston

Garston is a small town in northern Southland and the most inland settlement in New Zealand. It's a popular stop along the Around The Mountains Cycle Trail.  Read More

Mossburn Farm Animals
Chris McLennan

Mossburn

Mossburn

Mossburn is a small town in rural, northern Southland, located in a very scenic area with the Fiordland mountains as a beautiful backdrop. Read More

SUP Paddle boarding on Mavora Lakes
Chris McLennan

Mavora Lakes

Mavora Lakes

Mavora Lakes Park is a breathtaking testament to the wonders of nature, a place that truly inspires awe and reverence. Nestled within the Te Wāhipounamu/South-West New Zealand World Heritage Area, it… Read More

Piano Flat, Waikaia River

Waikaia

Waikaia

A former gold mining town, Waikaia, is progressively becoming a popular tourist destination and a fantastic holiday spot for many families. Located on the edge of the Waikaia River, the area has become a… Read More

Athol Bridge - Biking - Northern Southland
Chris McLennan

Athol

Athol

Athol is a small country town that lies on the Southern Scenic Route. Nowadays, farming is thriving in the area, and the area has become a popular destination with The Around the Mountains Cycle… Read More