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 4. Clyde

Retired Clyde School principal Doug White welcomes readers to Clyde, population 1200.

How did your story in Clyde begin?

During the 1980’s I was a university student with a real passion for aviation. 

I stayed in Clyde and flew in some memorable regional and national gliding championships during this time from Alexandra Airfield.

The South Island high country is a special place for me and I enjoy working in rural school communities.

In 2005 I jumped at the opportunity to take up the position of principal at Clyde School. It was such a lovely place to work, I remained there until I retired in 2020.” 

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

The mountain biking tracks around Clyde are fantastic.

Take your pick from our vast network of trails and single tracks. There is something to suit all rider abilities.

View from the Clyde lookout. PHOTO: Tim Bardsely Smith / Tourism Central Otago

Where’s the best spot in town for lunch?

You have a great choice of lunch spots in Clyde. Have fun trying them all.

You will find they are all family run businesses that serve great fresh food with a smile and a chat.

If you feel you deserve a lunchtime craft beer after a walk or cycle, Olivers have a selection from their own brewery and interesting guest beers.

Olivers Cafe, Restaurant and Accommodation are located in the middle of the Clyde Heritage Precinct. PHOTO: James Jubb/ Tourism Central Otago   

What’s a fun fact about Clyde?

Clyde’s first school was established in 1863 with 66 pupils, only a year after Hartley and Reilly banked 87 pounds of gold in Dunedin, starting the Dunstan gold rush.

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

The Clyde Historical Museum in Blyth St presents a fascinating visual history of the area.

Historic Clyde is a resting and refuelling point for many cyclists in Central Otago. PHOTO: Tourism Central Otago

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

The distinctive rock tor Kopuwai/Obelisk (1682M) stands over Clyde on the southern skyline.

My e-mountain bike enables me to climb up to the amazing landscape of the Kopuwai Conservation Area. It is a unique, wild and lonely place.

Go prepared for alpine conditions. It is the highest point between us and Antarctica and the weather can change quickly.

Proudly sponsored by TyreLAND