Driving into Balclutha in the Otago Region of New Zealand

Categories: Otago Region

Tags: balclutha, driving, new zealand, otago

Added: 2 years ago

Driving into Balclutha, in the Otago Region of New Zealand's South Island.

Central to the Clutha region, Balclutha is 80km southwest of Dunedin along the Southern Scenic Route, a touring route that curves around the lower South Island. Balclutha is home to an impressive arched concrete bridge that links the town, covering both banks of the mighty Clutha River. As the largest town in the region and the gateway to the Catlins coast, Balclutha is the area's commercial centre with a range of shops and services. The town also has excellent recreational facilities, including golf, swimming and indoor sports. Visit Naish Park with its tranquil duck pond and aviary, the park is also the starting point for the Blair Athol Walkway, leading to an amazing rhododendron dell. Take time to explore the diverse range of shops, including boutiques, sporting stores and giftware, or sample rural hospitality in one of the many cafes and eateries.

Balclutha is aptly nicknamed “Big River Town”, after its outstanding natural feature the Clutha River, New Zealand’s most voluminous river that runs through the heart of Balclutha. The river is an important part of the town’s history - it encouraged farmers to the area and brought fortune with the discovery of gold.

The Clutha River is great for fishing and is open for salmon and trout fishing all year round.