History of the Otago Central Rail Trail
Farming & gold
The first European settlers in Central Otago came to the district in the 1850s as sheep farmers. People flocked to the area after the discovery of gold in 1861 at Gabriells Gully. The region prospered and in 1891 work began on a railway that would link Dunedin, then the country's largest city, to the goldfields.
The 'mile a year' railway
Crossing the Manuherikia bridge, 1936
It took dozens of labourers, stonemasons, blacksmiths and engineers 16 long years to build the 150km of railway from Middlemarch to Clyde. The railway linked economic and cultural life throughout Central Otago, bringing essential supplies to one of the countries most isolated regions.
Original economic benefit
The railway had a huge impact on the local economy and towns such as Ranfurly sprung up along the line. While Ranfurly thrived, Naseby, which had been
the major Maniototo township, declined. This was the
fate of several towns further away from the railway route.
A return to farming
Today you can cycle or walk over the many
bridges on the trail
Eventually gold production declined and farming was once again the regions main industry.
New Zealand's first rail trail
In 1990 the 150km stretch of railway from Middlemarch to Clyde closed and the line was pulled up. In 2000 this section of the line was officially reopened as New Zealand's first rail trail.
Since opening the rail trail has attracted thousands of visitors to the area each year, providing job opportunities and revitalising the regions economy.
Walk or ride the trail
'Curling' remains a popular winter pastime
beside the trail at Oturehura
The rail trail offers a scenic journey through the distinctive landscape of Central Otago.
The trail passes through unique scenery not seen from the highway, including snow peaked mountain ranges, vast plains, old gold mining towns, farms, and fruit growing areas.
Suitable for all ages
The rail trail is suitable for all fitness levels. There are no steep hills and you can choose to do the whole 150km or just a section. Visitors can stay in historic hotels, bed and breakfasts, and socialise in country pubs while enjoying the amazing scenery.
Historical highlights
Viaducts, stonework, bridges and some of the old railway stations have been maintained, preserving the heritage of the old railway line and making this New Zealand's most popular rail heritage experience.
Highlights along the rail trail include: Tunnellers Camp, the art deco town of Ranfurly, the Poolburn Gorge, and the iconic Wedderburn Station made famous by Graham Sydney.