Where to go and what to see
Balclutha there are plenty of things to do. The mighty Clutha River is the soul of the district with the well known landmark, the Clutha Bridge a fitting introduction. Balclutha is a gateway for central Otago townships providing visitors with an opportunity to delve into the story of 19th century gold mining. The local Balclutha Museum is a good place to spend a rainy day or to research local stories. Balclutha is the gateway to the wild untamed Catlins, an important service centre and transport hub.
WHAT TO DO IN BALCLUTHA, HIGHLIGHTS
- Taste the Clutha food trail
- Linger in the local museums soaking up stories about the personalities of the district
- Walk the Blair Athol Walkway
- Cycle to Balclutha’s Naish Park for an impromptu picnic
- Join a local fishing guide for a day throwing a line for salmon and trout
BLAIR ATHOL WALKWAY
- A riverside walk that finishes in a glorious spring display of rhododendrons
TASTE THE CLUTHA FOOD TRAIL
- A Clutha visitor initiative the ‘Taste of Clutha’ showcases local foodie treats and food producers. Eating like a local is a superb idea and, for visitors, the online stores mean you won’t miss out when you return home. You get to meet and greet the producers. There are honesty stalls (cash is king) and farmers markets to attend. Check the Travel Pack Section for more information about the Taste the Clutha Trail.
- South Otago Museum the Balclutha Museum – the interactive displays of domestic and industrial history are well thought out
The passionate volunteers who manage the museum and its collections have catalogued and photographed the entire collection providing an excellent resource for researchers.
Check opening hours beforehand to avoid disappointment.
Contact the museum via email southotagomuseum@xtra.co.nz
Admission is free. Donations welcome.
WHO TURNED UP AND NAMED BALCLUTHA?
Balclutha is the Gaelic name for the River Clyde in Scotland. The Maori name for the district is Iwikatea: iwi: bones; katea: whitened – refers to a battle which left human bones strewn over the ground. Pre-European Maori named the Clutha River “te awa Mata-au” or “the river with surface current”.
Built in 1935, The Balclutha road bridge is 244m long and takes you across New Zealand’s second longest river.
TRAVEL PACK INFORMATION
Every town adds to the richness of things to do and see. For more details about the region check Dunedin & Otago Region nearby attractions and events.
TE PAPA COLLECTION
Collections Online – Te Papa Tongarewa An appealing mix of photographs capturing the essence of the town.
BEST BITS TRAVEL GUIDE