The District is located in the deep south of the South Island, New Zealand. The District covers an area of 1250km² and has a population of about 12,300. The two main towns are Gore and Mataura with the smaller settlements of Pukerau, Waikaka and Mandeville. The Gore District Council plays an active role in creating an evironment that encourages new business and supports an innovative rural sector; ensuring everyone enjoys the same sports and recreational opportunities, and fosters the continued growth of its arts and heritage. Gore is known as Southland's main rural service town and is surrounded by lush farmland that supports dairying, sheep and beef. There is also arable farming, albeit to a lesser extent. The town has events and arts and heritage facilties more at home in metropolitan areas. This mix between town and country is what locals call Rural City Living. Gore's key national events include the Hokonui Fashion Design Awards and the New Zealand Gold Guitar Awards. Meanwhile, the strong rural connection is borne out every second year with the Southern Field Days, a three day farming extravaganza that attracts over 38,000 visitors. Gore is home to the famous Eastern Southland Gallery, with its John Money Wing and permanent collection of work by NZ artist Ralph Hotere. The District's illicit whiskey making past is a major attraction today, particularly the Hokonui Moonshiners' Festival, which is held biennially in Gore's heritage precinct.