Invercargill’s Queens Park has a new attraction that’s turning heads—and minds. A giant outdoor chess board has been unveiled at the park’s playground, offering visitors a chance to enjoy fresh air while sharpening their logic and problem-solving skills.

The installation, completed earlier this week by the Invercargill City Council’s Parks and Recreation team, was quickly put to use by members of the Invercargill-Southland Chess Club.

President Gary McLean and Treasurer Richard Christie were the first to test out the oversized set.

“It’s a dream come true for us,” said McLean.

Manager Parks and Recreation Caroline Rain, Invercargill-Southland Chess Club Treasurer Richard Christie and President Gary McLean set up the new chess board. Photo: Supplied

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“We always wanted an outdoor chess set somewhere in the city, and we couldn’t have asked for a better location than in the middle of Queens Park.”

The idea was inspired by similar setups seen around the country, according to Caroline Rain, Manager of Parks and Recreation.

“As soon as we took down the construction fences and had the pieces set up on our new board, we had people walking past and wanting to play,” Rain said.

“It’s a simple addition, built by our staff for very little cost, but adds a lot of value to the playground and Queens Park.”

To protect the pieces from damage or being blown away, they will be stored indoors each evening.

A sign explaining the rules of chess will also be placed nearby to help newcomers get started.

Christie, an internationally accredited chess official and trainer, sees the board as more than just a game—it’s a teaching tool.

“The large board will be a useful tool for demonstrating different techniques to groups, and it could be the focal point of an outdoor chess tournament,” he said.

Chess has deep roots in Southland, with the region’s first club dating back to the 1860s.

The current Invercargill-Southland Chess Club was re-established in 2017 and meets weekly on Friday nights for social games and tournaments, open to all.

McLean hopes the new installation will raise awareness and encourage broader participation.

“Chess is accessible to anyone, regardless of gender, age or culture,” he said.

“The outdoor board is an open invitation to anyone visiting the park to give it a go.”

The giant chess board is located beside the Cheeky Llama Café and is available for public use during the café’s opening hours, typically from 9am or 10am until 4.30pm daily.