Great South

12/06/2026

We’re proud to see the Riversdale Arts Mixed Media Exhibition return for its 53rd year in 2026.

This long-running event is a testament to the strength of Southland’s creative community, showcasing a diverse range of work brought together by the passionate Riversdale Arts team.

Held from 19–27 June in Northern Southland, the exhibition continues to highlight the important role arts and culture play in connecting communities and celebrating regional talent.

Find out more:

A 10-day iconic Riversdale Arts Exhibition attracting some of New Zealand’s finest artists to showcase their outstanding artwork at a majestically curated visual feast.

11/06/2026

👏 Celebrating 25 years of contribution to Murihiku Southland

After 25 years helping shape the direction and future of our region, we acknowledge the significant contribution of Great South’s General Manager – Strategic Projects, Steve Canny, as he retires from his role.

Steve’s impact can be seen right across Southland. From advancing regional connectivity and leading innovative projects like SpaceOps New Zealand, to his work in energy, climate and decarbonisation, he has played a key role in positioning Murihiku Southland as a forward-looking and resilient region.

His ability to bring people together, navigate complex challenges, and champion long-term opportunity has helped shape outcomes that will benefit our communities for generations to come.

We thank Steve for his dedication, leadership and lasting contribution to Southland, and know that he will continue to champion Southland in all that he does.

🔗 Read more: https://greatsouth.nz/news/celebrating-25-years-of-contribution-to-murihiku-southland

10/06/2026

We're pleased to be part of the National Growth Summit on 13 and 14 July, bringing together regional leaders from across Aotearoa to discuss the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of our regions.

Great South Chief Executive Chami Abeysinghe will be among the speakers, sharing insights from Southland and joining the conversation about how we can support strong, resilient regional economies.

📅 13 - 14 July 2026
💻 Online

Find out more and register at: https://www.growthsummitnz.com/

10/06/2026

✨ We’re proud to support opportunities that showcase the unique natural assets of our region, including Fiordland’s incredible night skies.
Join a community night sky viewing in Te Anau next week, led by Glen Greaves, as part of the journey towards Fiordland becoming an International Dark Sky Park.

📅 Thursday 18 June
⏰ 7.00pm
📍 Outside the Rugby Ground Clubhouse, 21 Dusky Street, Te Anau

This is a great chance to learn more about the night sky, connect with others, and experience firsthand what makes Fiordland’s dark skies so special.

Please note this event is weather dependent.

09/06/2026

Looking for insights about housing affordability in Southland? 🏡🔑
Explore DISH – the Data Insights Southland Hub
Learn more 👇
https://southlanddata.nz/data/housing

09/06/2026

🔥 Flames on Esk – lighting up the city centre 🔥

Esk Street is about to come alive! Join us on Friday 19 June from 6pm – 8:30pm for Flames on Esk – an immersive night of fire performances, juggling, magic, light and creative installations transforming the heart of Invercargill.

Expect:
✨ Fire and flow performances to groovy tunes
✨ Jugglers, magicians, and costumed characters
✨ A lantern making workshop in the Esk Eats food court
✨ Projection-mapped visuals and light installations
✨ Street food and drink vendors

Bring your friends, wrap up warm, and experience Esk Street in a whole new light.
Make a night of it – grab dinner, stay for the spectacle, and support our local businesses.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/share/1PRjWJ1xq7/

07/06/2026

Invercargill businesses, this one’s for you.

Our FREE Adapting to Change workshop is coming up on 15 June, a practical session to help you respond to challenges, spot opportunities, and plan ahead with confidence.

✔ Free for NZ business owners
✔ Practical and interactive
✔ Delivered by Great South

📍 Great South, 143 Spey Street, Invercargill
📅 Monday 15 June
⏰ 9:00am – 12:00pm

Spaces are limited, register here:
https://greatsouth.nz/business-services/business-support

Tag someone who should attend, o let us know if you’re joining!

05/06/2026

We’re on the move, Southland! 🌱
This June, Great South and SpaceOps are teaming up for the Move Smarter Challenge – a month-long push to rethink how we get to and from work.
It’s all about cutting emissions, saving money, and boosting wellbeing by making smarter commuting choices 🚶‍♀️🚴‍♂️🚗💡

We’re also pretty excited to be the first organisation in Southland using the The Wednesday Challenge & The Weekday Challenge platform to track and gamify our progress (a tool already making waves across NZ!).

Shoutout to Jonathan Duarte, who’s already leading by example – swapping the car for two wheels and biking to work 👏

We’re hoping to spark something bigger… imagine more Southland businesses getting on board and moving smarter together!

04/06/2026

Looking for insights on housing in Southland? 🏡
Explore DISH – the Data Insights Southland Hub and make smarter decisions with real data.
https://southlanddata.nz/data/housing