Gore: Art, history and green spaces

A former Carnegie library building is now home to the Eastern Southland Gallery in Gore. Together with historic museums, park trails and opportunities for exercise, the city has a range of things to offer that you can consider when planning your stay.

Art and history in Gore

The Eastern Southland Gallery includes the John Money Wing, where works by Theo Schoon, Rita Angus and Lowell Nesbitt are displayed. The gallery also houses one of the largest collections of works by contemporary New Zealand artist Ralph Hotere. This makes it a specific point of interest for travellers who would like to see art during their stay.

The Old Hokonui Museum & Distillery offers a different historical perspective: its static displays, audio and visual material, and artefacts explore the prohibition era. Gore’s Heritage Precinct is also home to the Hokonui Heritage Centre, which includes the Gore Historical Museum. These places offer different perspectives—from artworks and the prohibition era to local history.

Parks, trails and activities

Those looking to spend time outdoors will find several described options at Hamilton Park. The Waikaka Walkway is an easy, flat trail beside the Waikaka Stream, with access to the stream for fishing. The Waikaka Way Walkway is on the outskirts of Gore in Hamilton Park and follows the Waikaka River to Toronto Street. The different names and trail descriptions give you specific points to consider when planning walks during your stay.

There are also options for cyclists at Hamilton Park: a mountain bike practice course, four scenic trails beside the Waikaka Stream, and a shared walking and cycling path for beginners. The miniature railway also operates there in summer. Whether you prefer walking, cycling or looking for an activity for children, these park attractions can each have a place in your daily plans.

Bannerman Park combines garden paths with wildlife viewing: it is home to Romeo, a red deer, his hinds and his calf. A paved path and gravel paths run through the park. Gore Public Garden has a conservatory that is open year-round, as well as an aviary. Alongside the trails and sporting options, the gardens offer further places to visit for a stay that caters to a range of interests.

Gore Multisports Complex has Southland’s only ice rink and a state-of-the-art Aquatic Centre. If you want to make exercise a priority, you can consider these options as another facet of Gore alongside its outdoor activities. When choosing your holiday accommodation, it helps to first consider whether you would rather spend your time exploring art and history, walking park trails or taking part in sporting activities.

Unique experiences and visitor information

The On the Fly Mataura River Festival features free activities for children and local artists. You can also find fly-fishing guides and anglers there, and food is available from stalls. The festival takes place on River Terrace in Gore. This combination of activities, art and fly fishing is a distinct reason to look into the city’s events.

The Gore Visitor Centre is in the heart of the Heritage Precinct at 16 Hokonui Drive. You can get local information there through advice, brochures and maps. The centre also sells local products from food producers and craftspeople in Southland. It can also arrange bookings for bus, ferry and scenic rail services. This makes it a useful place to get your bearings and plan the rest of your trip.

Discover Mataura as another place in this area.

For the broader travel overview: Gore District.