Situated inland and nestled on the banks of the Mataura River is Southland's second largest town - Gore . Gore proclaims itself to be two capitals - the world capital of brown trout fishing and New Zealand's capital of country music. The Mataura River has an international reputation for the quality of its fishing and attracts anglers from all around the world as they seek the challenge of snaring a wily brown trout. It is not only the Mataura River that offers this quality fishing as within Southland, there are in excess of 27 quality fishing rivers and streams. The challenge of catching a brown trout, the clearness of the water, the relative uncrowded rivers and easy access will leave any fisherman totally satisfied.
Heritage plays a big part in the Eastern Southland area which has a colourful past.
It was here in the Hokonui Hills that the illicit yet romantic New Zealand whisky industry had its beginning. The recently opened Hokonui Moonshine Museum tells stories from this time and industry as well as give a wonderful insight into the social history of New Zealand during the 1880-1920 era. Aviation of yesteryear can be captured by experiencing the thrill of open cockpit flying at the Croydon Aircraft Co at the Mandeville airfield. Vintage aircraft - particularly Moths are restored here as well as being able to be hired for flights. Events represent a major part in the life of Eastern Southlanders and for the 10 days leading up to Queens Birthday the town of Gore comes alive to the sounds of country music as the New Zealand Gold Guitar Awards festival brings all types of musicians to town.