Making the most of your stay
The township of Oturehua is not to be missed as it is one of the gems on the rail trail and there are numerous local sights and activities to make your stay memorable
Translated, Oturehua is “The place where the summer star stands high.”, but up until 1907 Oturehua was known as Rough Ridge after the range of hills the town is nestled below
Locally
Just across from the Oturehua Rail Station is New Zealand’s oldest continuously operating general store, Gilchrist's Store. Have a look around at the many shelves displaying nostalgic ‘Kiwi’ products of long-forgotten brands.
Oturehua is also the home of one of the most important contributions to New Zealand's farming. Hayes Engineering Works, on the outskirts of town, was the birthplace of the internationally acclaimed Hayes Permanent Wire Strainer in 1927. Today the mud-brick villa, grounds and workshop are open to the public between 9am to 5pm daily December through April.
At the other end of town on the way to Wedderburn is a very short detour up Reef Road to the historic Golden Progress Mine. Golden Progress Mine displays Central Otago’s last poppet head straddling one of the numerous shafts burrowing deep underground in search of gold-bearing quartz rock.
What our previous guests have said
This was a highlight of our Otago Rail Trail. The hosts were friendly and accommodating without being intrusive. The facilities were superb and immaculate.
Hookachucka
We stayed as a group of 8 including two young kids (8 and 4yrs) on the Otago Rail Trail. Roger and Fleur were amazing hosts, we loved the honesty bar, the warm
Victoria
Stayed a night as part of the Otago Rail Trail. Wonderful room and facilities, including heated floors in the bathroom. Enjoyed the spa after a day's
Roz Feyen
Inverlair Lodge is to be congratulated for their hospitality. The accom is excellent and the dinner that they cooked for us was our best meal on tour.
Charlotte
The hosts are attentive and accommodating. It is like a little oasis in the desert, just when you feel like you have had enough for one day, you reach Oturehua
Philip
We stayed here whilst on the Otago Rail Trail. Friendly, helpful hosts, lovely room, great spa, delicious breakfast.
Janene Paynter