A day of culture in Gore

If you’re in NZ's deep south and want to experience a bit of culture, Gore is the place to be. Here's my recommendations for a day of culture in Gore.

1. The Hokonui Moonshine Museum - the museum tells stories of the region’s illicit moonshine days. Colourful characters populated the industry and their adventures are kept alive through re creations, audio-visuals and artifacts. Whisky made according to an original local recipe is available for purchase and you can try before you buy. www.hokonuiwhiskey.com.

2. Eastern Southland Gallery - Over the road from the museum is a public art museum featuring an internationally renowned John Money collection, one of the largest holdings of works by contemporary Kiwi artist Ralph Hotere and significant works by West African carvers. It also has an exciting programme of temporary exhibitions, performances and workshops.www.goredc.govt.nz/artgallery.

3. Gore Historical Musuem - the town’s early history is celebrated at the Gore Historical Museum. Displays include Victoriana, gold recovery, farming relics and domestic and medical memorabilia. The museumtells of the lives of Maori and early European settlers, there’s an exhibition dedicated to fly fishing on the Mataura River, and the adjacent Hokonui Heritage Research Centre caters to visitors interested in local history. www.gorenz.com/visit/arts-and-culture.

4. Croydon Aircraft Company - At the old Mandeville airfield, 15 minutes’ drive northwest of Gore, is an aviation museum that is one of the area’s main draw cards. Opened in 2006 and run by the Croydon Aviation Heritage Trust, it holds a collection of vintage aircraft and is one of the area’s top attractions. Displays and interpretations celebrate the lives of pioneer aviators and charter flights are available, weather-permitting. The Croydon Aircraft Company workshops and The Moth restaurant are also on site. www.croydonaircraft.com.