Southern DHB medical officer of health Dr Susan Jack thanked those who took part and described it as an important way of checking if the disease was "lurking" in Eastern Southland.
The centre had a queue of people throughout the day and was open from 9am when anyone, with or without symptoms, was able to get a test.
“Thank you to everyone who went and had a test today.
"Your actions helped everyone in our community.
"It helps us be sure there is not Covid-19 circulating in our region, and means that if we did find it, we're in the best position to stamp it out quickly.”
Pop-up centres will be set up in Balclutha next Thursday and Oamaru next Saturday.
Gore Mayor Tracy Hicks was one of those swabbed.
He said even though the procedure was not pleasant he would encourage people to get a test.
"It certainly brings tears to your eyes but a lot worse things can happen in life."
Results should be available in the next two to three days.
