Title
Invercargill, New Zealand. A bird's-eye view, taken from the waterworks tower. Population about ten thousand
Description
Invercargill is the chief town in the Southland District, and has a population of between ten and eleven thousand. It is the starting point of five important railways, including one to the celebrated Southern Lakes; another to Dunedin and Christchurch; a third to the fine agricultural and pastoral country lying east of the Mataura River, and known as the Seaward Bush Line; a fourth into the western district; and finally, a short line to the Bluff, carrying heavy produce for export. Amongst the many thriving industries of Invercargill may be mentioned numerous rope and twine factories, carriage and implement works, brick-kilns and potteries, iron foundries, fellmongeries, flour-mills, sawmills, and three bacon factories. The corporation supplies the citizens with water and gas, and disposes of the sewage. The streets of Invercargill are said to be the widest in New Zealand, and they are well lighted and maintained. The Water-Tower, from whence this fine view was taken, is a very prominent landmark. Into this handsome tower artesian water is pumped, to be there stored in a capacious tank, and used to supply most of the houses within the town boundaries. The water-Tower, which is open for visitors to ascend at all times, affords an excellent view of the district, including the Takitimo Mountains. Travellers from Australia, reach here by rail from the Bluff, a distance of 18 miles, en route to the Cold Lakes. There are two bowling greens in Invercargill, and visiting bowlers are always welcomed with hearty hospitality. Amidst the other attractions, from a tourist's point of view, may be mentioned trout-fishing in the neighbouring rivers, besides sea-fishing and boating. Every Wednesday there is a steamer trip to Stewart Island, the land of lovely bush, and delightful inlets, bays, and islands.
