"For the old days, the old ways, the wonder, when life was so simple and plain.
Dear old homeland you're stealing the thunder, As I long to be with you again.
The skiing, the skating, the curling, That no other province can show.
The old times and things that come whirling, As I picture a Central under snow."
from 'Under Snow' by Blue Jeans

The Maniototo

From the Maniototo plain through the Ida Valley and on into the Manuherikia, you enter a Timeless land of wide open spaces covered in tors, tussock and meandering waterways, bordered by snow-capped mountains. The scenery is breathtaking. Once captured by the Maniototo, you will be inspired to explore it's beauty. From the St Bathan's Blue Lake through to Dansey's Pass you will come to know and love not only the land, but the character of it's people.

Founded in the 1860's following the discovery of gold nearby, retains it's gold-mining town heritage and history. It remains largely untouched and unspoilt despite the passage of over 140 years since it was established to service the gold miners who flocked to Central Otago to seek their fortunes. It has somehow survived as a real and truly authentic "Central" town, with an atmosphere and charm of yesteryear that really has to be experienced to be appreciated.

Once the largest gold-mining town on the Maniototo, permanent residents now number round 150. But this swells to upwards of 3000 in summer, as crib owners and camping ground dwellers enjoying the tranquil delights of this corner of the Maniototo; and for a time in winter, being home to the Scottish sport of curling.

is steeped in History with it's pubs being the meeting place of miners, musterers, and townsfolk for generations. Today the legacy of this past is in the locals, and the forestry and farming community. Spend a little time here and you will come to know and admire these gems of the Maniototo; the ites.

Ancient Briton Hotel - , 0954, New Zealand
Phone: 03-444 9992