Driving from Stony Creek to Balclutha in Otago New Zealand

Categories: Otago Region

Tags: balclutha, driving, new zealand, otago, stony creek

Added: 2 years ago

Driving SH1 from Stony Creek to Balclutha, in the Otago region on the East Coast of New Zealand's South Island.

Central to the Clutha region, Balclutha is 80km southwest of Dunedin along the the Southern Scenic Route, a touring route which curves its way around the lower South Island. Covering both banks of the mighty Clutha River, Balclutha is home to an impressive arched concrete bridge that links the town. As the largest town in the region, and the gateway to the Catlins coast, Balclutha is the commercial centre of the area 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 gift ware, 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.