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
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
Best accommodation on the rail trail 5 out of 5, best accommodation on the rail trail be far. The spa pool and view of the stars at night is
Dougbodley
Our group had an excellent stay. Our hosts were amazing and made everyone feel so welcome. This is a beautiful large house in an excellent scenic location. The
Tony, Australia
Perfect hosts. Beautiful view and luxuriously furnished rooms. Nice social area. Perfect location on the rail trail.
Charles Kirby
The owners couldn’t do enough for us. Lovely breakfast. Fantastic rooms, lounge area and outdoor area with a view. Perfect for our group of 10 on the
Adele
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