Guyra couple Sam and Kirsty White have first-hand experience of how a rail trail can benefit rural communities after a visit to New Zealand in 2011.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
It is a concept that they ‘fully, whole heartedly support’ after the visit which included an overnight stay along the route of the Otago Rail Trail.
“When we were in NZ for the Rugby World Cup in 2011 we visited Wedderburn,” Kirsty said. “We had a lovely meal at the Wedderburn Tavern and met all the locals coming back from a rugby game at Queenstown.”
The White’s took advantage of accommodation offered by farming couple Stuart and Lorraine Duncan. Centrally situated along the Otago Central Rail Trail the Duncan’s offer on farm accommodation and hospitality in a comfortable 1928 farm homestead Lodge as well as self-contained Cottages.
They encourage rail trail visitors to join in their way of life and conduct farm tours of their 4,500 acre high country farm. Visitors can also play a round of golf, take a guided 4 x 4 Off Trail Tour exploring the surrounding hinterlands and villages or spend the day fishing.
“The Duncan’s let us stay in one of their delightful Wedderburn Cottages so we wandered up to one of the cottages (no key required) and stayed the night,” Kirsty said. “The cottage felt like the Hilton compared to our tiny campervan!”
“We checked out the Rail Trail and the information shed, with original press clippings about the family and honesty box, to buy drinks.
“The next day we caught up with the Duncan family at their house down the road and had a lovely morning talking about angus cattle, sheep, family farming and how positive the rail trail has been for their community.
“After talking to Stuart and Lorraine there is no doubt in my mind that the Rail Trail would be a wonderful thing for our town and community.”
If you want to find out more
visit the website www.wedderburncottages.co.nz/.