Clyde

Clyde is a historic town in Central Otago, located on the Clutha River approximately 8 km north of Alexandra. The town was a major centre during the Central Otago gold rush and has many well-preserved 19th-century stone buildings.

Clyde was the largest town in Central Otago in the 1860s gold rush but declined as gold mining waned. Today it is a popular destination for its heritage architecture, the Clyde Dam (New Zealand's largest concrete gravity dam), and its position on the Otago Central Rail Trail.

By Plane

The nearest major airports are Queenstown (ZQN), approximately 100 km west, and Dunedin (DUD), approximately 160 km south-east.

By Car / Road

Clyde is on State Highway 8, about a 10-minute drive from Alexandra and 1 hour from Cromwell.

The historic centre is walkable. A car is needed for the wider area.

Clyde Historic Precinct — Excellent collection of 19th-century stone buildings including the post office, courthouse, and hotels.

Clyde Dam — New Zealand's largest concrete gravity dam, 100 metres high. A viewing area and information panels are available.

Clutha River — Walking and cycling tracks along the river.

Otago Central Rail Trail — The Clyde end of this popular cycling and walking trail.

Walk the historic streets. Cycle the Otago Central Rail Trail. Visit the Clyde Dam viewpoint. Fish the Clutha River. Explore the local vineyards.

Clyde has cafes and restaurants in historic buildings.

Cafes serve coffee. The historic hotels have bars.

Clyde has historic hotels, motels, and bed-and-breakfasts.

Clyde has a general store and boutique shops.

• Alexandra — 8 km south, fruit-growing centre
• Cromwell — 60 km west, heritage and wine
• Otago Central Rail Trail — cycle or walk
• Roxburgh — 50 km south, fruit-growing town
• Queenstown — 100 km west, adventure capital