If wasn't for the hospitality of Southland, Jason Myers would be at home with his two little girls watching television.

Myers was one of many less fortunate residents of Invercargill enjoying lunch with Invercargill Mayor Tim Shadbolt at the Scottish Hall on Christmas Day.

Myers moved from Whangarei to Invercargill in 2010. Three months his wife died, leaving him with two daughters, one who was born seven weeks prematurely.

Ella, who is now 5, was cut from her mother's womb after she died.

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Myers said he had no family and only a few friends in Invercargill.

When his girls found out they were invited they were "bouncing around", Myers said.

It was the second time he had Christmas lunch with Shadbolt, he said.

"We got presents and got to see Santa," Myers said.

Functions and events co-ordinator Rachel Christensen said the lunch was put on with donations and help from volunteers.

Staff at the Ascot Park Hotel prepared the food for 112 people, and about 90 were served on Christmas Day.

"If somebody walked in off the street, we wouldn't turn them down. We've had a lot more families this year."

Diners were treated to a baked ham, roast potatoes and vegetables with pineapple sauce and a selection of desserts including pavlova.