The Clutha River - Central Otago
The mighty Clutha River embodies a flow of strength and vivid intensity as it etches its way from its outlet at Lake Wanaka, through Central Otago to the coast. Only 16km shorter than the Waikato River’s 354km, it has an average discharge of almost twice the volume. In the words of Vincent Pyke in 1874 whose impressions speak of the river’s power... "There, in that wild gorge through steep mountains … the river surged… a boisterous torrent … foaming, roaring, resistless…greeted the weary eye".
Cromwell and Roxburgh balance on the terraces of the path created by its force. Yet, such a foreboding force will still allow a zipping dragonfly to rest momentarily on its surface tension, will create riverside rocks soft enough for bare feet to tread, will assist a gentle breeze and let you bathe quietly on the edge of its flow in a pool shaded by delicate green willow trees.
In a land so dry, so severe and so expansive, the Clutha, taken from the Gaelic for ‘Clyde’ in Scotland, is coming 'home', it is 'arriving' in Central Otago.
The Clutha river and the surrounding Central Otago landscape inspires artworks, sculptures, writing and the making of many photos. Skim a stone, relax while reading a book or take a riverside walk beside the deep azure green of the Clutha described by locals as ‘a source of life’.
Take care however - 'Mata-au', the Maori word for the Clutha River translates to 'formidable in places for anyone attempting a crossing'. It is an unforgiving body of water if not shown the respect and the awe it deserves. The creation of beautiful bridges to cross over allows you to suspend above it and appreciate the sheer volume.
Overpowering, linking our land with one common thread. The Clutha River, incongruous in this dry desolate land, is distinctly different. Be sure to visit the Clutha River while exploring Central Otago New Zealand.
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