About New Zealand's Alexandra Region

Alexandra is located in the Otago region on the bottom eastern side of New Zealand's South Island. Named after Princess Alexandra of Denmark. Alexnadra is the hub of central Otago. The lure of gold in the 1860s bought thousands to the Dunstan gold fields. To feed the large labour force imaginative settlers exploited the horticulture potential of the arid area, aspirant orchardists took up miners water rights and Alexandra was soon blossoming. Alexandra owes is current prosperity to the orchadists. The pretty town is an oasis of trees among barren rocky hills. The best in scenic rural Otago is encompassed in the Alexandra area.

Climate

The climate of Alexandra is semi-arid with the area classified as a semi-desert area. January and February are the warmest months with temperatures reaching into the 30's and July has the lowest average. Although the winter season is very bracing, dry conditions generally prevail underfoot and clear sunny skies compensate for the low temperatures. With hot summers and crisp cool winters Alexandra is the perfect getaway for people who love the great-outdoors and mountain terrain.

The Otago region

Dunedin is Otago's capital city. Originally a Scottish settlement the area is rich in culture and heritage. Dunedin is one of New Zealand's most prestigious universities, Otago University is also located here making for a unique and vibrant city. Popular attractions include beautiful Larnach Castle, The Railway Station building, historic Olveston homestead and the Octagon - Dunedin's 8-sided take on the traditional town square.

Clyde is a charming little town 10 km west of Alexandra . Historic stone buildings line the streets. The Clyde lookout point gives great views over the once bustling gold fields of the area.

The magical Moeraki Boulders are a popular tourist attraction when visiting Otago. Located on the coast mid-way between Dunedin and Oamaru, the circular boulders were formed around 60 million years ago.

Activites

The Alexandra Blossom Festival will celebrate its 50th year this year - from September 15 to 01 October. One of the oldest celebrations in New Zealand, the Alexandra Blossom Festival will crown the Festival Queen and host the Grand Festival parade. The Blossom Festival has grown and become a community event synonymous with spring to both local residents and visitors alike. Originally a one-day event, the Festival has grown into a two-week extravaganza!

Alexandra is a mountain bike and walkers haven with many old gold trails through the Old man, Dunstan, raggedy and Knobby ranges.

The Otago Central Rail Trail is a year-round recreational facility, designed for walkers, mountain bikers and horse riders. It is a public reserve and can be walked or ridden in either direction. The Rail Trail was developed by the Department of Conservation in Otago with funding support from the Otago Central Rail Trail Trust.

In addtion you could follow a garden or wine trail, or visit one of the many art and craft galleries.

Your hosts have a wealth of local knowledge and are available to assist you in planning you holiday excursions, ensuring you enjoy all that Alexandra and the Otago region has to offer. For further enquires please contact them via phone, fax or email as detailed below.

Phone: +64 3 448 7667

Fax: +64 3448 6283

Frephone (in NZ): 0800 ALMOND (0800 256 663)

Email: info@almondcourtmotel.co.nz

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