- (For the current top-level subdivision of Southland in New Zealand, see Southland Region)
The Southland Province was a province of New Zealand from March 1861 until the province rejoined with Otago Province in 1870.
Area
The province was much smaller than the present day Southland region, and included Stewart Island. The capital and largest settlement of Southland Province was Invercargill.
Railways
The Southland Province began a number of railway projects. The branch to Bluff (Which was known as Campbelltown until 1917) opened on 5 February 1867. It was built to international standard gauge of 1,435 mm (4 feet 8.5 inches), wider than the national gauge of 1,067 mm (3 feet 6 inches) gauge. When the central government passed legislation setting a single standard for track gauges, the line was converted to the new gauge in a single day, 18 December 1875. The railway later became part of the New Zealand Railways Department.
Anniversary Day
Founded: April 1 1861 [1]
New Zealand law provides an anniversary day for each province.
Superintendents
Legislation
Source
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