Family Friendly Towns

Balclutha is the biggest town in the Clutha District with around 4000 residents. It sits on the banks of the Clutha River, surrounded by South Otago farms. It is the district’s commercial centre with a range of shops, services. There is always something happening, with a new residential subdivision and the ongoing development of an industrial park. Modern recreation facilities, a choice of schools and rest homes, Balclutha is a great place for all ages.

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Milton is Clutha District's second largest town, with a population of approximately 2000 people. Milton is growing and developing as the industrial hub of the Clutha District with some of the district’s largest businesses such as, Calder Stewart and Pan Pac based here.

For more information on Milton and the surrounding area go to their community run website

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The passionate people of 'Kai' have built a community to be proud of. Only 10km south of the township Balclutha, and close to the Otago coast it has established an affordable house and land package. There is a primary school and childcare centre and growing community facilities in Kaitangata, with plenty of fishing, boating and white baiting right on your doorstep. The Fonterra site at Stirling is also just up the road.

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The West Otago town of Tapanui has a strong farming community, surrounded by the Blue Mountains with walks, and fantastic fishing in the Pomahaka River. 

For more information about Tapanui, visit their website, or Facebook page.

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Lawrence is a charming town with a rich gold mining history. The town has a strong community spirit, getting behind local projects such as the Tuapeka Aquatic Centre. The Clutha Gold Cycling and Walking Trail goes through the town. Lawrence has an Area School for students from years 0 to 13.

For more local information on the Lawrence website, or visit their Facebook Page.

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On the shores of New Zealand's most inland tidal lake, Waihola is situated between Milton and Dunedin City along State Highway 1. It is close to Dunedin International Airport, with a growing residential development. Lake Waihola is a firm favourite with Otago locals and visitors for fishing, boating, and waterskiing. The Clutha Gold Cycling and Walking Trail will in time finish at Waihola, with work underway to extend the route from Lawrence, through to Lake Waihola.

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This is the largest town in The Catlins with around 400 residents, situated along the Southern Scenic Route. Owaka is surrounded by spectacular scenery. There is an Area School for years 0-13, an excellent museum, as well as a 4 Square Supermarket, cafes, boutique stores, art galleries and a small library.

To find out more about their community, head to the official website of The Catlins

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Clinton is a rural hub with a strong sense of community surrounded by rolling farmland. Close to Balclutha and Gore it has affordable housing with a day care and primary school. If you are seeking a rural, peaceful lifestyle while being close to town then consider Clinton as your new home in South Otago.

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Around 200 residents call the seaside settlement of Kaka Point home, with many crib-owners regularly staying in the area. Kaka Point has stunning scenery, including the famous Nugget Point Lighthouse. There is a convenience store and cafe and bar, and is home to Clutha District’s surf life-saving club. 

Visit the official website of The Catlins website.

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Clutha Valley is primarily a sheep, beef and dairy farming area. There are a number of rural and non-rural businesses within the area. Most are situated in Clydevale and Greenfield.

The area has a primary school, petrol station, two garages, two vets, postal service centre, community hall, tavern, church, golf club, bowling club, large industry (Danone), rugby club, swimming pool and more. Nearby is Tuapeka Mouth and the Heritage Hub and ferry. 

It is a very active community and important location on the highway between Balclutha and Beaumont/Lawrence/Central Otago.

A seaside fishing village on the river estuary is Clutha District’s closest settlement to Dunedin, Otago. Taieri Mouth is perfect for coastal living with great swimming and surfing. The focal point of the Taieri Mouth community is the primary school.

For local information, visit their Facebook Page.

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