Newshub looks at the realities of upping sticks and leaving the big city. This week: Invercargill.

It's home to more than 50,000 people, but Invercargill still carries a small-town vibe.

Maybe that's because that population spreads across 389 square kilometres of farmland and township, larger in land-size than Wellington.

It's got everything you need but no more - and everyone is a friend of a friend.

What's going for it?



It's the people that make this place, with their curiously contagious rolling R's and can-do attitudes.

If you want a better idea, watch The World's Fastest Indian - based on the true story of Invercargill world-record holder Burt Munro. It's set back in 1967, but really, not much has changed.

In summer it stays light until after 10pm and the main streets are 40m wide. You'll have space to breathe.

What's not?



It's just so far away. It's the westernmost, southernmost city in the country, and the weather won't let you forget that with summer temperatures averaging 18degC and 9degC in winter.

You also can't buy alcohol in supermarkets thanks to local council laws.