One of the mainstays of local business in Central Otago, Central Otago Sports Depot has been servicing locals with outdoor goods for generations. 

A family-owned business, the Sports Depot has been playing a role in getting people outside for decades. 

As part of New Zealand Small Business Day last week, I chose to focus on a store which was one of the first I visited when I moved to the area. 

Central Otago Sports Depot owner Ellen Middendorf is one of the smiling faces who work in the store. Image: Contributed.

As an Australian, I landed in Central in the deep of winter and I ventured in the Sports Depot looking for some advice. 

An hour later, I left cheerful and enthusiastic about the adventures I could go on in the area. 

Ever since then I have gone back and forth to the shop a multitude of times, each occasion I’ve left with more knowledge than I thought I would need. 

Such is the experience and genuine nature of the Middendorf’s who own the business. 

Locals through and through, they live and breathe their hobbies and experiences and are more than willing to pass them on. 

Rather be fishing? Central Otago Sports Depot will help you out. Image: Central Otago Sports Depot/Facebook. 

If they recommend a fly to catch a trout in a particular patch of water, you bet your bottom they’ll be imparting genuine knowledge. 

So for me, armed with a couple of flies and a mediocre fly casting technique at best, I at least have the gear and the knowledge to put myself in the best position to catch that pesky fish. 

I just have to work on my casting, to say the least. 

If you want more information or need to prepare yourself for duck shooting season, these are the locals to visit. Central Otago Sports Depot also sponsor The Central App Fishing guide - click here Fishing Visit or shop online.