Omakau

Omakau is a tiny, sun-baked settlement in Central Otago that punches well above its weight in charm. Set along the banks of the Manuherikia River, this former gold-rush town is now a laid-back base for cycling the Otago Central Rail Trail, with a classic country pub and a surprising architectural gem. The pace here is slow, the skies are big, and the locals are quick to share a yarn.

Highlights & What to See

• Otago Central Rail Trail – Omakau is a perfect staging point for this iconic cycle trail. The section east to Chatto Creek is gentle and scenic, crossing historic viaducts and through golden tussock country.
• St Patrick's Basilica – This striking Catholic church, built in 1898 with local schist rock and Oamaru stone detailing, is an unexpected piece of Gothic Revival in the middle of nowhere. Its interior is simple but beautiful.
• Omakau Domain – A shady riverside reserve with a playground, picnic tables, and a small golf course. Great for a leg-stretch or a quiet lunch by the water.
• Manuherikia River – The river is popular for gold panning (try your luck like the old-timers), trout fishing, and cooling off in summer.
• Omakau & District Museum – A tiny volunteer-run museum in the old courthouse, packed with gold-mining memorabilia and local photographs. Call ahead for opening times.

Suggested Time to Spend

Omakau is a brief stop rather than a destination in itself. Most visitors pass through for an hour or two to admire the basilica, grab a coffee at the store, and maybe cycle a short section of the Rail Trail. If you're riding the trail, it makes a natural lunch or overnight break – the pub offers hearty meals and basic accommodation. Allow half a day if you're cycling from here to Chatto Creek and back.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Alexandra – 20 minutes south, the region's main town offers the Clyde Dam, more Rail Trail access, and a lively Saturday market.
• Clyde – A beautifully preserved gold-rush town with excellent cafés, a historic precinct, and the Clyde Dam lookout.
• St Bathans – Half an hour east, this eerie ghost town has the Blue Lake (an old gold pit), the Vulcan Hotel, and a photogenic cemetery.
• Poolburn Gorge – A spectacular section of the Rail Trail with a long tunnel and high viaducts, easily accessed from Omakau.
• Ophir – Tiny historic settlement with a lovely stone bridge and a well-preserved post office (famous for its summer ice-creams).

Please check official sources for current details.