This farming town flourished when the railway opened in 1905
Omakau Railway Station was built in 1904 and was at one time NZ’s busiest stock loading stations. Rather than construct a bridge over the Manuherikia River to take the Otago Central Railway to already well-established Ophir 2.5km away, the Government decided to create a new railhead and settlement, naming it Omakau. Today a township of some 400 hundred and still growing, Omakau offers Rail Trailers a range of accommodation and food and refreshment options.
From the centre of Omakau, signs point to Ophir. Cycle or walk over the concrete bridge across the Manuherikia River to take the 2.5km tarseal road to Ophir or use the off-road trail. After cycling or strolling down the main street with its many historic buildings follow the road to the Daniel O’Connell Suspension Bridge built in 1880. Continue until connecting with State Highway 85, turning right to cycle back to the centre of Omakau. Estimated total distance: 6km.
