Welcome to the next installment of our "My Town" series.

This initiative is to find the charm and attractions of diverse small townships nestled in the heart of Central Otago. Our aim is to provide holiday-makers with an immersive experience that delves far beyond the well-known landmarks, such as Cromwell’s iconic big fruit sculpture and the majestic Clyde Dam. The series will unfold with weekly releases every Saturday and Wednesday until the 26 of January. Over this period, we will cover towns of Central Otago, exposing the region's hidden treasures from a locals perspective.

Episode 8. Alexandra

Tall Poppy Real Estate business owner Peter Hishon welcomes readers to Alexandra, population 6120.

How did your story in Alexandra begin?

It began with school holidays, camping at Matakanui, rabbiting everyday and digging up old relics around the township. Twenty years later I had the opportunity to work here in the meat industry and now I have been here 35 years.

Alexandra is known for being a picturesque town: a new bridge (built in 1958), stands alongside the old bridge towers, built in 1882 over the Mata-Au (Clutha) river. PHOTO: Will Nelson 

What is it about Alexandra that you couldn’t live without and why?

The four distinct seasons. Our hot dry summers with lots of fresh stone fruit, then the colourful autumn with very intense colours, the dry cold winter and finally the spring blossoms.

Shaky Bridge above the Manuherikia River is a spot for a stroll or a nearby riverside picnic. PHOTO: File 

Where’s the best spot in town for lunch?

For me, it’s often lunch on the run in Alexandra from the Sushi Café on Centennial Ave, or if I’m in Clyde from Recharge Bar on Sunderland St.

A ten minute drive from Alexandra, Recharge bar has fresh pressed juices, coffee and organic food. PHOTO: Supplied 

What’s a fun fact about Alexandra?

It’s the driest region in New Zealand, has only 355mm rain per year (or 14 inches).

What’s one thing people need to check out when visiting Alexandra?

It’s famous pinot noirs.

Where in Central Otago do you like to escape to and why?

Ophir’s Pitches Store or any of our golf courses early in the morning.

Alexandra Golf Course hole seven ‘The Ridge’ a par four, has views of the ranges, as does much of the undulating desert type terrain 18 golf course on the edge of town. PHOTO: Supplied 

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