South Alive Project
Heritage Trail
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
South Alive Project
Heritage Trail
Purpose
We are excited to bring you the South Alive Heritage Trail which is under development. This will be a series of interpretation panels installed in places of significance in South Invercargill all within walking distance of South Alive & The Pantry. The trail is designed primarily for the local families of South Invercargill who want to learn more about the history of the community they live in. This community led project has involved consultation with the local community as to what they see as the important history for this trail.
The South Alive heritage trail will include such landmarks as Russell Square, Pleasure Bay and Southland Hospital, and as the project evolves a brochure/map and digital content will be developed to support the sharing of the history of this vibrant community.
What Have We Done?
The first panel of the South Alive Heritage Trail was installed at the South Invercargill War Memorial Site 363 Elles Road in November 2021 to coincide with the Armistice Day commemoration.
Since then, four more panels have been installed at Russell Square, Appleby Cricket Grounds, Southland Hospital, and a second panel has been installed at the War Memorial Site, telling the stories of the tramway.
We look forward to sharing quirky and interesting history with you, here are a few snippets:
Powell’s Garden
Powell’s Garden
“A record size turnip exhibited in town and other fruit and vegetable were grown on this area of land when it was known as Powell’s Garden in the 1880s.”
Pleasure Bay
Pleasure Bay
Memories of Pleasure Bay:
“Now you’ll find me every evening
In the surf at Pleasure Bay;
I come out very stylish,
And I always come to stay.”
– S.G. August, 1916
Story of a local ice-cream legend
Did you know a local ice cream legend helped invent Hokey Pokey Ice Cream. We sat down with Brian Simon to hear his story. Tune in here to listen.
Forward Plans
Complete the South Invercargill Heritage Trail with a total of nine panels installed along the walking trail.
Identify new ways to celebrate the stories shared on the trail.
Support the trail with amenities such as seating, brochures and digital content.
