History of Roxburgh Gorge Trail

The Roxburgh Gorge Trail is situated in Central Otago, New Zealand, and is a relatively new addition to the region’s outdoor offerings. Here is a brief history of the trail:

Early Māori Presence
The Central Otago region has a long and rich history of Māori presence, dating back over 800 years. The Roxburgh Gorge was an important route for Māori travelling between the east and west coasts of the South Island.

European Settlers
European settlers began arriving in the Central Otago region in the mid-19th century, drawn by the discovery of gold. They established settlements along the Clutha River, which runs through the Roxburgh Gorge.

Hydroelectric Development
In the 1950s, the Roxburgh Hydroelectric Dam was constructed on the Clutha River, transforming the landscape and creating a lake that flooded some parts of the gorge. The dam continues to generate electricity to this day.

Trail Development
The Roxburgh Gorge Trail was first proposed in the early 2000s as a way to provide access to the scenic and historic area. The trail was built in stages and officially opened in 2013.

Partnership and Collaboration
The development of the Roxburgh Gorge Trail was made possible through the partnership and collaboration of several groups, including the Department of Conservation, local iwi, and local government authorities.

Trail Improvements
Since its opening, the Roxburgh Gorge Trail has undergone several improvements to make it more accessible and enjoyable for visitors. These include the installation of signage, toilets, and picnic areas, as well as the addition of the jet boat transfer service.

Today, the Roxburgh Gorge Trail is a popular destination for visitors to Central Otago, offering a unique opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty and rich history.