Discover the Historic Lindis Valley in Otago
Located in Otago, State Highway 8 meanders through the scenic Lindis Valley for five kilometres after descending from Cluden Hill. At the northern end of the valley, just before it transitions into a rocky gorge, a signposted turnoff leads you onto Old Faithful Road. This road takes you to the DOC campsite in Nine Mile Reserve, where you can explore the ruins of the historic Lindis Hotel and the site of New Zealand's first gold rush.
Journey Along Old Faithful Road
Old Faithful Road was the original route through the valley and gorge. It rises 40 metres above the river, offering a pleasant view. After four kilometres, the road opens into Goodger Flat at the northern end and crosses a farm to reach Nine Mile Reserve. From here, you can also access the river.
The First Gold Rush in New Zealand
The Lindis Valley is notable for being the site of New Zealand's first gold rush. Although John Turnbull Thomson, the first European to explore Lindis Pass, discovered gold in 1857, it initially went unnoticed. In April 1861, Samuel McIntyre, a road crew member and former Californian gold prospector, found gold nuggets in the riverbank. Within a month, 300 prospectors had set up camp in the area. However, the rush was short-lived, as the discovery of richer gold deposits at Gabriel's Gully near Lawrence and harsh early winter weather quickly drew miners away. Chinese miners attempted to find gold in the 1890s, and during the Great Depression in the 1930s, the government subsidised gold mining. One miner, Wattie Thompson, continued his efforts until a flood washed out his claim in the early 1970s.
The Lindis Hotel and Its Legacy
The Lindis Hotel began as a store in 1861 and became a well-established stop on the road by the 1870s. Over the years, the hotel expanded, but in the 1930s, the road was rerouted to the opposite side of the river, leading to the dereliction of the nearby Faithful Bridge. The hotel served as a private residence until it was abandoned in 1951.
Outdoor Activities and Scenic Views
At the head of Old Faithful Road, you can access the Lindis Peak Track. This track offers a rewarding climb of about 800 metres, taking up to three hours, to reach stunning views from the peak at 1226 metres. The area is also popular for mountain biking, with various 4WD tracks winding through the mountains.
Getting to Lindis Valley
To reach the Lindis Valley, travel along State Highway 8 in Otago. After descending from Cluden Hill, follow the highway for five kilometres until you reach the signposted turnoff onto Old Faithful Road. This road will lead you to the Nine Mile Reserve and the historic sites within the valley. While in the area, consider exploring nearby attractions such as the Lindis Peak Track for more outdoor adventures.
