Naseby
2000ft Above Worry Level
After gold was discovered in 1863, Naseby, the 'Jewel of the Maniototo' was a booming town filled with shops, hotels, post offices, a courthouse and more.
With weekly dances, the Naseby community was close-knitted, lively and proud. Sport has been popular from the start - with cricket, rugby and cycling dating back to the 1870s, however the most popular sport is curling. Curling was introduced by the Scottish settlers in the 1880s and Naseby's freezing winters meant the local dams and ponds were perfect conditions for the sport. To be available all year around, an International Curling Rink was built and has hosted numerous tournaments!
Naseby today is quaint and tranquil. As a popular holiday destination, Naseby offers visitors fresh air, relaxed paces, a dabble of heritage and overall time out.
Getting There
The Naseby township is just under two hours drive away from Dunedin; one hours drive from Alexandra and only fifteen minutes from Ranfurly. The main route into Naseby is turning off State Highway 85 however, 4WD Adventurers are also able to come over the famous Danseys Pass Road.
Heritage
Like the rest of Central Otago, Naseby has fundamental ties with gold. In 1863, gold was found, and the Māniatoto's earliest settlement sprung to life. Churches, hotels, shops, a hospital, a bank and a courthouse led to the very social township.
The gold industry boomed with the Government's investment in water races and reservoirs which are still prevelant in Naseby's landscape today. Curling was introduced by Scottish and Irish gold miners in 1878 to use the natural ponds and dams that would freeze over in the harsh Central Otago winters.
Even though the gold mining steadily declined, Naseby continued to be a large service town for the Māniatoto region, until the Otago Central Railway line went through the Ranfurly township. This caused many of the businesses and services to move from Naseby to the up and coming Ranfurly township.
Nowadays, you will see proud remnants of Naseby's past all over the township. In particular, the heritage precinct boasts shop façades that offer insight into what was. It is a fantastic holiday destination as the township embraces its history, the peace and quiet, the scenic landscapes and the history and heritage of the area. Naseby offers a safe environment for families.
Walking
If you're a hard-core hiker or prefer a leisurely stroll, Stewart Island offers something for all abilities and ages! New Zealand's most southern Great Walk, Rakiura is a three-day 32km loop traverses through the bush, beach and wildlife. There are also numerous short, scenic walks ranging from ten minute strolls to half and whole day options.
About Naseby
Activities
Naseby Night Sky Tours
From $50 per person
The dark velvety skies of the Māniatoto Valley make it a perfect location for navigating the night sky! Naseby Night Sky Tours are hosted by an astrophysicist, and he provides all of the equipment you need to explore the universe and observe objects near and far. With customizable tours available, Naseby Night Sky Tours allows you to make the most of your Central Otago holiday, because why should the adventures stop at dusk?
* The tour begins an hour after sunset, but is subject to weather conditions.
Curling
From $45 per person
The whole family can enjoy this unique game – it’s easy to learn yet challenging to play and is a fun sport for all ages and abilities!
Slide the stones across the ice to get as close to the target area as possible (called the house). Each player slides two stones each and points are given for the closest stone to the house. The opposition team is able to 'sweep' the ice with brooms which makes the ice slippery, and the stone travel further.
If you’ve considered trying curling, but thought it looked too difficult, think again! Indoor Curling is easy and fast to learn. The three different delivery techniques mean people of any age or ability can give it a go!
4WD Tours
Price on Request
Experience the rugged landscapes of the Oteake Conservation Area; the Māniatoto and Manuherikia regions on four wheels!
Be guided through historic gold mining sites such as Buster and Kyeburn Diggings as you head through the incredible rock and tussock country. Enjoy a personalised experience - catered for your interest. There are many different tracks and trails to follow, and many different tour themes to choose from. Enjoy garden tours, heritage trails, high country landscapes, views and more!
Naseby Forest
Free
Walk and bike through the Naseby Forest as it offers many tracks and trials through the exotic forest area, allowing many hours of exercise and exploration!
Enjoy the experience of cycling under a rich canopy, on trails that weave through this open forest floor. Mostly flat and undulating, these trails follow the natural contours making for hours of exploration. Do beware there are some blind corners, so do look out for those walkers and joggers.
There is a network of mountain bike trails criss-crossing all over the forest with 52km of trails ranging from beginners to advanced grades. It is free to explore the forest, but it is advised to check for closures due to logging or fire risks!
Featured Accommodation
Benesek
House
Whole Holiday Home
With consistent 5 ⭐reviews, Benesek House truly is your home away from home. With its awesome location, it is the perfect base for your Naseby holiday!
Naseby
Lodge
Stay a While
Enjoy our one or two bedroom self-contained spacious apartments as you explore this glorious part of the South Island.