Southland District is located at the southern end of New Zealand’s South Island, surrounding Invercargill City. It covers approximately 30,000 square kilometres and has a population of about 34,000.

The district council is based in Invercargill. Other principal towns include Winton, Riverton, Lumsden and Te Anau.

The economy is based on dairy farming, livestock farming, forestry, fishing and tourism. Major exports include agricultural products and seafood. The district offers scenic mountain cycling trails, while Stewart Island and areas along the Catlins River are home to many rare native birds.

The current mayor is Rob Scott.