Invercargill

New Zealand's southernmost region is enjoying unprecedented growth especially in the dairy sector with farms suitable for conversion being snapped up almost as soon as they come on the market.

Yes, New Zealand's best kept secret that Southland has ``got what it takes'' has finally been let out of the bag.

Interest is such that people who hadn't previously considered Southland as a viable option are arriving to take advantage of the many lifestyle opportunities the region has to offer and one only has to look at the amenities, both sporting and educational to see why.

Rated the equal of any in the world, Southlander's can enjoy the experience of swimming at Splash Palace, cycling their way to fitness and fame at the ILT Velodrome or watching the best netballers or rugby players anywhere compete in the atmosphere that is Stadium Southland or Rugby Park.

But that's only the tip of the iceberg. Home to annual events such as the famous Bluff Oyster and Seafood Festival, Powernet Tour of Southland,  Hokonui Fashion Awards and the renowned Gore Gold Guitar Awards, this special part of Aotearoa also boasts a host of fine restaurants, sought after winter and summer holiday spots only a couple of hours away in Fiordland, Queenstown and Central Otago.

We boast first-class educational facilities including the Southern Institute of Technology in the heart of Invercargill itself and an abundance of parks and art galleries where families can enjoy the natural wonders of the far south as well as the work of some of New Zealand's foremost artists and photographers.

Always first to adapt to changing times, Southlander's are also talking about the current oil exploration taking place off the southern coast which will further boost the provinces coffers when ``black gold'' is struck.

What's more, Southland is enjoying the lowest unemployment rates in the country and while the real estate market in the province has bucked the recent trend in many other centres with prices for both urban and rural properties remaining buoyant, the fact remains that it is still one of the most affordable regions to live.

Here at the Southland Times we know how fortunate we are to live in a place where a hearty welcome awaits both newcomers and those returning from their big OE's alike. A place where you don't have to drive for hours to experience the most majestic scenery or take to the slopes with that new pair of ski's, ply a rod in a fish-filled river or enjoy the tranquility that is Stewart Island.

Is it any wonder Mayor Tim Shadbolt is always ready to extoll Southland's virtues?  The man northerners want back so badly, is definitely here to stay.