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 11. OphirAlexia Anderson welcomes readers to Ophir, population about 50.How did your story in Ophir begin?While I don’t live in Ophir, I moved to the area in 2018 to be with my, now, husband who was born and bred in the Ida Valley.We live in Omakau, but a visit to Ophir is never out of the question, especially as there is only 2km separating the two towns.Ophir is a great destination for cyclists, especially if it means a trip to Pitches Store. PHOTO: James Jubb/ Tourism Central Otago.What is it about Ophir that you couldn’t live without and why?The history - I love a good story! Although the town might seem small, it is rich in history, including the fact it was once called Blacks, after the station owned by Charles F Black and his brother. I also understand that when gold was discovered in Central Otago in 1863, Ophir’s population boomed to more than 1000.The town's hall, one of Ophir's many historic buildings. PHOTO: James Jubb/ Tourism Central Otago.Where’s the best spot in town for lunch?There’s a couple of great places to get something to eat - either Pitches Store or Blacks Hotel.Or, if you want to enjoy the area’s great outdoors, you can take a picnic down to the Manuherikia River, which runs between Ophir and Omakau.What’s a fun fact about Ophir?It’s weather extremes are next level. It can go from the hottest temperature in the country in summer, to the coldest in winter.Its lowest recorded temperature was -21C, a day that made headlines on national news.I understand Ophir was once a bustling town, the biggest by population in the Manuherikia Valley for many years, until the railway bypassed it. What’s one thing people need to check out when visiting Ophir and why?The old stone Post Office, which was built in 1886.It is still open for business thanks to Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, making it one of the oldest operational post offices in New Zealand.And, don’t forget to take a trip over the single lane Daniel O’Connell suspension bridge, which was built in 1880.The historic Post Office is worth a visit, all modes of transport welcome. PHOTO: James Jubb/ Tourism Central Otago.Poolburn Dam is also worth a visit when you are in the area, a drive that takes about 45 minutes from Ophir. PHOTO: Shirley Howden.Where in Central Otago do you like to escape to and why? Poolburn Dam, where cell phone coverage is zero and the only option is to relax.The unique setting, nestled amongst schist rock, provides some amazing landscape, so amazing that it was used as a backdrop in Lord of the Rings.Word of warning: the road is best navigated in a 4WD.Proudly sponsored by TyreLAND

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 10. CromwellGlen Christiansen welcomes readers to Cromwell, population 7160.How did your story in Cromwell begin?I came to Otago Polytech in 1994 and studied adventure tourism, I returned in 2005 as General Manager of the Golden Gate Lodge, now the Gate.Cromwell is a great place to relax and unwind. PHOTO: Supplied/ Central Otago Tourism What is it about Cromwell that you couldn’t live without and why?Cromwell and Central Otago has hidden gems everywhere, from The Nevis Valley through to Pinders Pond. With the arrival of the Lake Dunstan trail the region just got better for me. What I couldn’t live without in Cromwell is the people, they make our community, and through my job I meet so many.Don't forget to visit the town's Heritage Precinct, where it can feel like time has stood still. PHOTO: Hayden Parsons/ Central Otago Touring Route Where’s the best spot in town for lunch? Forage Café, maybe a bit biased, but plenty of space and carparking.What’s a fun fact about Cromwell?Neplusultra Street used to be classed as the town boundary. What’s one thing people need to check out when visiting Cromwell? Cromwell Museum it is amazing and shows how far the town has moved.There are a large range of cycling and walking trails to explore around Cromwell. PHOTO: James Jubb/ Tourism Central Otago Where in Central Otago do you like to escape to and why? Onto any of the trails, mountain bike or E-bike - the options are limitless.

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 9. BannockburnJackie Hamilton welcomes readers to Bannockburn, population 406.How did your story in Bannockburn begin?My family moved here in 2001 to farm merino sheep on Cairnmuir Station.We built a home on the Cairnmuir side of Bannockburn and have been privileged to be involved in the development of the highly successful Lake Dunstan Bike Trail.Our kids' childhood memories forever will be slalom water-skiing training in the Inlet.The neighbourhood in Bannockburn is very friendly and supportive with many residents sporting hidden talents of all sorts.What do you think is one of the town’s best hidden treasures and why?Desert Heart - where all the locals take their visitors for a home-made platter of savoury treats.It's tucked away down by the Kawarau River with the access road off Felton Road. It's an easy bike-ride back to the Bannockburn Hotel or Black Rabbit Cafe.What is one piece of advice you would give to someone planning a visit?Add a couple of days onto your visit.Then there's enough time for a variety of walks/bike rides on the Cairnmuir and Carricktown side of Bannockburn, as well as The Sluicings, and maybe a 4WD day-trip up through the Nevis, or over the Hawksburn to Clyde.Explore The Sluicings during your next visit to Bannockburn. PHOTO: Hayden Parsons / Central Otago Touring Route What’s something people planning a visit should bring with them?Walking shoes and plenty of drinking water.Make your way along Cornish Point Road to the DOC track over the Cairnmuir Range.Walk up the rocky track as far as you feel comfortable for a wonderful view over Highlands, Mt Difficulty and the Sugar Loaf. On the way back stop for some bean-bag R&R time at Pedal & Pour Wine Trailer at Carrick Winery overlooking the Inlet. What’s one thing about Bannockburn that might surprise a visitor?The educational plaques on the Sluicings track on Felton Road - visitors will discover an amazing variety of facts about the goldmining community of Stewart Town and the difficulties in making a living there in the 19th century. Where in Central Otago do you like to escape to and why?The swimming hole under the Bannockburn Bridge - clean and sandy and shady - perfect way to cool the core down on the way home from a hot day out and about.Proudly sponsored by TyreLAND

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 7. OmakauAlice Caron and Marie Dubois, of Muddy Creek Cafe, welcome readers to Omakau, population about 400.How did your story in Omakau begin? It all started when we launched Fishwives Smokehouse, an artisan smokehouse we created in 2020. The smokehouse was in Omakau, so we would commute from Queenstown every week to smoke the fish. We stopped at Muddy Creek pretty much every time for a pie and a baked good. And, one day decided to view it. The rest is history.Enjoying the sun outside Muddy Creek Cafe. PHOTO: SuppliedWhat is it about Omakau that you couldn’t live without and why? We couldn’t live without the community feel of it. Omakau without its people would not be Omakau. That is what is attractive when coming from a bigger town.Here everyone knows and helps everyone, it is delightful to be part of it.Where’s the best spot in town for lunch? We could be biased but Muddy Creek Café for sure.What’s a fun fact about Omakau? Maybe the good old joke “Oh my cow”!The Otago Central Rail Trail brings a lot of people to Omakau. PHOTO: James Jubb / Tourism Central OtagoWhat’s one thing people need to check out when visiting Omakau and why? Muddy Creek café of course! More seriously, walking along the Manuherikia river is one of the (most) peaceful things to do around here.Where in Central Otago do you like to escape to and why? Naseby is our absolute fav! Such a cute village surrounded by the forest and mountain ranges, a great café and overall vibe!

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 6. RanfurlyRaelene Miller welcomes readers to Ranfurly, population 780.How did your story in Ranfurly begin?I grew up in Ranfurly with my family on a small farm. Went to primary school at the area school before moving away to boarding school.After high school I moved away to Australia to work and travel, before moving back to Ranfurly in 2018.This past year my cousin and I decided to open a wee cafe in the heart of Ranfurly.It's been the best decision we've made to make a base in Ranfurly, not only having the rail trail booming and all the travellers through, but our wonderful local support has been out of this world. What do you think is one of Ranfurly's hidden treasures and why?In summer it definitely has to be our local swimming pool!It's right beside our brand new playground and the pool is such a great resource to have in town, it's perfect for families. Ranfurly is good place to take a break while doing to Otago Central Rail Trail. PHOTO: James Jubb/ Otago Central Rail TrailWhat is one piece of advice you would give to someone planning a visit?Probably to take time to explore not only Ranfurly, but the surrounding areas. There's some awesome wee places, walks and secret swimming spots all around us.Chatting to local business owners to get their advice is also a great way to get directions and insights to their favourite spots.The business owners are always there to help and are always up for a chat to visitors.Where’s the best spot in town for lunch?Definitely Floral and Feast!(I may be biased - as I own it, but we think it's pretty great).Joanna Steele (left) and Raelene Miller, who both co-own Floral and Feast in Ranfurly. PHOTO: SuppliedWhere in Central Otago do you like to escape to and why?My favourite place to escape to would definitely be Naseby Forest.There's amazing walking and bike tracks, my dog loves zooming around the trees and my wee boy loves throwing pinecones in the water race and playing on the playground in the forest.Plus it's only a five minute drive down the road.

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 3. Millers FlatMarion Mewburn welcomes readers to Millers Flat, population 90.How did your story in Millers Flat begin?“In April 1990 we drove past what would become our property while on an outing with some fellow apple pickers.There were two old walnut trees and we climbed the fence to check if there were walnuts.Half a year later we had bought it to build a house on, now they are our walnut trees. Great walnuts too.”What do you think is one of the town’s best hidden treasures and why?“About 9km from the village, on the track along the river, there is a walkway, about 10 minutes, to an old swing bridge.It’s a lovely walk and the bridge is not only a piece of history which makes you imagine what life was like here 150 years ago, but it’s also beautiful and magical to be there and look down on the fast flowing river.”Author Kyle Mewburn and the outlook at her and wife Marion Mewburn’s house. PHOTO: SuppliedMarion and Kyle on a walk. PHOTO: SuppliedWhat is one piece of advice you would give to someone planning a visit?“My advice would be to book ahead. There is very little accommodation here. Great campground with cabins though.” The Mata-Au (Clutha) River. PHOTO: Shirley HowdenWhat’s something people planning a visit should bring with them?“Bring your bikes or walking shoes. The track along the river in either direction from Millers Flat is stunning and not too hard to do. Also, bring snacks.The café is presently closed and there is only the pub for food.They have good food there, but it can be busy. The nearest shop is 17 km away in Roxburgh. And, even there the options for evening dining are limited.”What’s one thing about Millers Flat that might surprise a visitor?“The thing which seems to surprise people is that we have a heated pool of a reasonable size.I don’t know why people find this surprising, but there you have it.”Where in Central Otago do you like to escape to and why?“I actually really like staying home, because we have everything my heart desires on the property.A lovely creek to swim in, even the cycling track goes right through the middle of it. And, we always eat yummy homemade food. But, I do like to have little outings with friends once in a while to either Lawrence, Roxburgh or Clyde for coffee or lunch and maybe some shopping.”An example of Marion’s ceramics. PHOTO: Central Otago ArtsRead more: Millers Flat author to launch new children's books.Proudly sponsored by TyreLAND

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 5. NasebyAdrian Hood welcomes readers to Naseby, population 140.How did your story in Naseby begin? We moved from the Danseys Pass to Naseby to run the Ancient Briton Hotel and then the Royal Hotel. What is it about Naseby that you couldn’t live without and why? The mountains, the climate and the vibe - the perfect combination and quite possibly the main reason people love to visit.The Royal Hotel can help you recharge during a visit to Naseby. PHOTO: Geoff MarksWhere’s the best spot in town for lunch? Trick question, but have to go with Royal Hotel! Whether it’s a basket of chips you are after, or a gourmet meal, the Royal Hotel has it all. And, don’t forget to check out the range of Central Otago wines and beers on offer. The building also has a great vibe and celebrates the town’s rich history - so don’t forget to check out the photographs on the walls.What’s a fun fact about Naseby? We are 2000 ft above worry level. The holiday season embraces that notion, whether it’s people passing through on their bikes, staying at their holiday home, pulling up in their campervan, or locals from nearby areas who have made it their destination for the day. What’s one thing people need to check out when visiting Naseby and why? The indoor curling rink, the luge tracks and mountain biking trails in the forest. The town has many hidden treasures waiting to be explored.Naseby is a popular destination for mountain bikers. PHOTO: Mike BlewittWhere in Central Otago do you like to escape to and why? Clyde, another of the district’s quaint towns, which is rich in history, just like Naseby.Proudly sponsored by TyreLAND

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. ClydeRetired 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 OtagoWhere’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 OtagoWhere 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

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 2. St BathansBirgit Krippner welcomes readers to St Bathans, population "fewer than" 10.How did your story in St Bathans begin?Eleven years ago I did my first roady to the South Island. At the time I lived in Wellington and I had a little Mini Cooper. I planned out the trip, where I will be heading. My husband Murray said that there is one place, he would like me to visit. I said, sure, what’s that? It was St Bathans. After cruising around the South Island for some days, I ended up taking the right turn onto gravel road, leading to St Bathans. That was the beginning of my love affair with this historical place. A couple of years ago we started looking for a holiday home in the area. This holiday home became a big house which we purchased. Earlier this year we sold our house in Seatoun, Wellington, which was located close to the beach. Our home is in St Bathans now.St Bathans resident Birgit Krippner. PHOTO: Birgit KrippnerWhat is it about St Bathans that you couldn’t live without and why?The smell of nature, it brings me back to childhood memories, which I thought were long forgotten. Where’s the best spot in town for lunch?There is one amazing spot in town for great lunch, which is the one and only Vulcan Hotel.St Bathans' popular meeting spot is the Vulcan Hotel. PHOTO: Geoff MarksThe Blue Lake at St Bathans is a must see when visiting the area. PHOTO: Geoff MarksWhat’s a fun fact about St Bathans?Not sure if this is a fun fact, but it is being said that room number one of the Vulcan Hotel is haunted. This is a story coming from the old gold mining days of St Bathans.What’s one thing people need to check out when visiting St Bathans and why?The Gold Office, which is a little store selling local crafts and collectibles in the historic village of St Bathans. Coming here is like diving into a different reality. I highly recommend.Where in Central Otago do you like to escape to and why? A good escape for me is the Aquatic Centre in Alexandra. I go swimming there a couple of times a week. Always feeling great afterwards. Also, going for walks on gravel roads, and spending time with our five sheep, two dogs, one cat and my family.

Introducing the "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 in our News section 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.Beau Trevathan welcomes readers to Tarras, population 606.How did your story in Tarras begin?Born at the Cromwell Maternity Home, the third generation to live in the same house.What do you think is one of the town’s best hidden treasures and why?The Lindis river is the number one gem. While it has been the life blood to the local agricultural industry it also offers many special places for family camping and picnics.A large tin sculpture greets people to Tarras. PHOTO: Tourism Central OtagoTarras is a good spot for a picnic. PHOTO: James Jubb / Tourism Central OtagoWhat is one piece of advice you would give to someone planning a visit?Tarras has always been BYO. Do not expect the normal social gathering available at the “local,” that you will find in most other villages.Check out the community's small collection of stores, including cafe. PHOTO: James Jubb / Tourism Central OtagoWhat’s something people planning a visit should bring with them?Come with an open mind, golf clubs, walking shoes and sunscreen. There are several walks, but be prepared for all conditions. The locals would prefer to not have to carry anybody out.What’s one thing about Tarras that might surprise a visitor?Visiting any of the many heritage sites that remain since the discovery of gold in the 1800’s.