Poolburn’s recent claim to fame comes from the Lord of the Rings trilogy, where the dam became the mythical city of Rohan
Note the Poolburn Dam is not to be confused with the Poolburn Gorge. Poolburn’s recent claim to fame comes from the Lord of the Rings trilogy, where the dam became the mythical city of Rohan.
The Poolburn Dam is often referred to as the Poolburn Reserve. Access to the area can be from either Omakau or Oturehua on the tar sealed Ida Valley Road.
Solandra Lodge is situated in the picturesque Ida Valley, close to the Poolburn Gorge section of the Rail Trail. We provide a courtesy vehicle in Omakau along with overnight storage for your bikes at shebikeshebikes. You use the courtesy vehicle to make the ten minute trip to and from Omakau.
Rates:1 to 3 adults (or 2 adults and 2 children) $225per night
Additional adults up to total of six guests - $75 per person per night
Additional children up to total of six guests - $45 per child per night Continental Breakfast.
more infoThe Poolburn Dam is a very popular location that is well-used by locals, tourists, holiday makers and visitors. It is surrounded in beautiful scenery that has tussock and rock swept land. It is suitable for fishing as it is abundant with brown trout. It is also suitable for boating and picnicking. The lake off the Poolburn Dam was used as a location in the Lord of the Ring movie series.
The dam is approximately 35 minutes by car from the recently closed Poolburn Hotel on the foothills of the Raggedy Range. When travelling through the Ida Valley look for the sign Poolburn Moa Creek Rd opposite the old Poolburn Hotel.
Follow Moa Creek Rd and look for the sign on the left “Poolburn Dam”. The last section of this winding road leading up to Rough Ridge is unsealed and closed during winter months. Take care and enjoy the beautiful views of the Poolburn Dam.
Biking along the Poolburn Gorge on Otago Rail Trail you will see beautiful scenery, tunnels, schist rock, the Poolburn Viaduct which has schist rocks piers, and more.
The Poolburn Community Hall is used regularly for community events, weddings, services, and as a polling booth. There is a children's playground behind the hall.
The single most important resource when travelling the Central Otago Rail Trail
A beautifully crafted book with amazing photography by Peter Andrews showing Central Otago as it truly is, one of the most rugged, extreme and beautiful locations on the planet. Stunning scenery, amazing and important historical and current information, detailed maps, lists of accommodation, frequently asked questions, where to eat, how far between towns, etc. It’s all in here.
More Info
