Pedalling Through Time

It’s a sometimes-challenging 42km ride through the Cromwell Gorge on the Lake Dunstan Trail that connects the museums in Cromwell (once known as ‘The Junction’ at the confluence of the Clutha and Kawarau Rivers) and historic Clyde.

The Lake Dunstan Trail itself is frequently punctuated with interpretation panels which provide a fascinating insight into the lifestyles of the early pioneers.

Cromwell Museum
47 The Mall, Cromwell
Open 7-days, 10am – 4pm

Delve into Cromwell’s storied past, where gold fever struck in the 1860s, sparking a rush that shaped the town. You’ll find fascinating objects from that era, including original gold mining tools and some shining nuggets—just a hint of the wealth once sought here.

Clyde Museum
4 Blyth Street, Clyde
Open Tuesday to Sunday, 1pm – 4pm (October to April)

In Clyde, a visit to the museum gives you all the stories and history of this pretty little town which dates back to the beginning of the gold rush. It’s a great spot to imagine the lives of these early miners who flocked here with dreams of fortune. The Vincent County Chambers room within the museum is also a must see with its grand tables, chairs and chandelier, ordered from DeBrets of London in the 1860s.

Between 1879 – 1990, the Otago Central Railway opened-up the Central Otago region. Once regarded as One of the Great Train Journeys of the World, the railway was decommissioned in the early 90’s and then redeveloped as New Zealand’s original “Great Ride” and reopened in 2000 as a purpose-built, multi-day cycle trail.

Needless to say, the Rail Trail is steeped in history with a wealth of interpretation and historic stations and railway buildings to visit along the 152km long journey. A visit to one of the three great museums en route further helps embellish the rich heritage of the trail.

Central Stories Museum & Art Gallery, Alexandra
21 Centennial Avenue, Alexandra
Open 7-days, 10am – 4pm

While cycling through Alexandra, discover Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery, a cultural gem showcasing the region's fascinating heritage and stories from Alexandra's past. Housing Central Otago's largest art gallery with changing exhibitions, plus a boutique gift shop featuring local products, it's a must-visit stop. Movie buffs can also catch a film at Central Cinema, located in the same building.

Maniatoto Early Settlers Museum, Naseby
3 Earne Street, Naseby
Opening hours: Mid December - 30 April, Weds: 1pm - 4pm, Thurs - Sun: 10:30am - 4pm

Maniatoto Early Settler’s Museum located in Naseby captures the tenacious spirit of the early settlers. A collection of fascinating artifacts that tell the story of everyday pioneer life of the early run-holders and goldminers, as well as wartime memorabilia. Don’t miss the Jubilee Museum – opposite the Early Settlers Museum – which houses a collection of vintage machinery and vehicles.

Roxburgh, in the Teviot Valley, is the central hub which services both the Roxburgh Gorge and Clutha Gold Trails. It’s a great pit stop for those riding the trails (don’t miss the world-famous in Otago Jimmy’s Pies) and an opportunity to learn more about the Teviot Valley’s highly innovative history.

Teviot District Museum, Roxburgh
77 Scotland Street / 11 Abbotsford Street, Roxburgh
Open: Saturdays & Sundays 2pm – 4pm (October – April and on request)

At Teviot, the Clutha River is central to the story. Treasures tell of early farming and river crossings, horticulture, gold dredging and sluicing industries.  This museum offers a glimpse into the hardships faced by pioneers taming the rugged land, but also how they were amongst the first to embrace “new” technologies such as NZ’s first public electric power scheme and fruit canneries.

Each museum offers a fresh perspective and makes for a great break along your ride, giving you time to soak in the area’s past before jumping back on your bike. These stops let you connect not only with Central Otago’s landscapes but also with the spirit and stories of the people who lived here - making your cycling holiday a richer, more memorable experience.