Focus On | Duntroon & Kurow
The heart of a region Even before Duntroon became the penultimate stop as cyclists head east on the Alps2Ocean Cycle Trail, people were being drawn to the town.
Located on State Highway 83, the town is steeped in history. It was named Duntroon by Robert Campbell an early run holder, after Duntroon Castle, the Campbell's ancestral home in Scotland. The nearby settlements of Livingstone and Maerewhenua still provide evidence of their gold mining days. With mountains and hills for a backdrop, the mighty Waitaki River glistening within walking distance and the Maerawhenua river bounding Duntroon on the east, a golf course a short distance away - the appeal is obvious.
Although the town does not occupy a large area, there is a lot to enjoy within a short distance.
Although a rural location, the town is populated There are two eateries. The Duntroon Hotel, one of the South Island’s oldest hotels, having by an eclectic mix of people. been built in 1864, was practically rebuilt A short 25-minute drive to Oamaru makes for an before being reopened in 2019. easy commute for some residents. While others The Flying Pig Cafe, had an enviable reputation have chosen to retire here and/or create their for its food in the past. The cafe too has own living within the town. This gives the town reopened recently and has made an impressive its distinctive vibe. debut. Both establishments offer quality food. A drive around Duntroon's quiet streets will reveal art works in back yards and at gateways. The Hotel also offers accommodation, as do other operators within Duntoon and nearby. Even the public toilets provide a background to travellers as they pose before the splendid mural On the main highway is the only working blacksmith shop open to the public. Nicol's painted by local legend Burns Pollock.
Blacksmith Shop has been operating since the 1890s.
A minute’s walk from this area is the Vanished World Heritage Centre.
In 1974 four local farmers bought it complete with tools of trade and it has since been restored it to its former glory.
Thousands of visitors a year enjoy the presentation of geologic displays and excavating their own fossils at the centre.
A category one Heritage building where training days and workshops are now available to the public, as are the articles wrought from within by the very gifted artisans who utilise the forge. Directly behind the forge is a spring in the limestone embankment known as the Brewery Hole. Prior to European settlement the travelling Maori people used to stop there and later, European settlers brewed cider using the spring water. Guarding the Brewery Hole are two metal sculptures. A massive Moa standing proud and a Haast eagle suspended over the spring. Both constructed out of scrap metal from Nicol's Forge. Towering over these, is the section of bridge span saved from the old road/railway bridge that was replaced in 1975 by the existing road bridge. The railway having been closed in 1983.
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Across the road where the Alps2Ocean cycle trail emerges into the town, is the Gaol. The original holding cell for the Duntroon Police Station. This is now a mini museum, complete with a policeman, albeit and a mannequin.
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KUROW MEDICAL CENTRE Kurow Medical Centre is a pro-equity practice. This means that as a medical center we are actively working towards achieving equitable health outcomes for our patients. SERVICES • Aviation, workplace medicals • Vasectomy • Diabetic reviews and healthy heart checks • Ear Health • Cryotherapy and Diathermy • Maternity and general ultrasound • Steroid injections • Minor surgery • Mole checks and mole removal • Audiometry • Spirometry • Childhood immunisations • Tongue tie surgery and much more! 03 436 0760 / 03 976 0503 info@kurowmedicalcentre.org.nz www.kurowmedicalcentre.org.nz
Kurow Holiday Park Theo and Diane Curtis invite you to enjoy our peaceful park-like surroundings with landscaped terraces graduating down to the Waitaki River.
Enchanting views of the picturesque Waitaki Valley by day, and unrivalled starry skies by night. Experience a luxurious getaway at this secluded property.
Phone. 03 436 0876 Mobile. 027 501 6534 westernhouse.kurow@gmail.com
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Showcasing our beautiful area, the lavender we grow, and the products we make. Stop to visit our shop, bring a picnic, enjoy the peace and the garden. 76 Bledisloe Street, Kurow Phone: 03 436 0725 / 0800 142 649 Email: office@kurowholidaypark.co.nz
www.kurowholidaypark.co.nz
Phone: 03 431 2596 Email: lavender4life@gmail.com www.danseyspasslavender.co.nz
