Discover Butchers Gully in Central Otago
Butchers Gully Reservoir sits within the Flat Top Hill Conservation Area, southwest of Alexandra in Central Otago. The reservoir's calm waters conceal the submerged remnants of a 1800s gold mining settlement, creating an unusual underwater heritage site. The surrounding conservation area features walking and mountain biking trails with expansive views across Central Otago's distinctive dry tussock-covered schist landscape.
Features of Butchers Gully
The reservoir's most intriguing feature lies beneath its surface. When water levels drop, remnants of the historic Butchers Gully gold mining settlement become visible, including building foundations, mining equipment, and infrastructure from the 1860s gold rush era. This submerged ghost town is a unique historical landscape where Central Otago's gold mining heritage is literally preserved underwater.
The surrounding Flat Top Hill Conservation Area showcases Central Otago's characteristic dry, open landscape. Tussock grasslands dominate the hillsides, with schist rock outcrops breaking through the golden vegetation. The area's distinctive colouring shifts with the seasons: Summer brings golden-brown tussocks, while autumn adds deeper gold and rust tones to the landscape.
Native skinks inhabit the rocky areas, while hawks and harriers patrol the open country. The reservoir attracts waterfowl, including paradise shelduck and black shags.
Things to Do
Tracks around the reservoir and through the conservation area range from short 20-minute strolls along the dam to longer explorations of Flat Top Hill. The tracks are generally easy to moderate and shared with cyclists. The hills east of the reservoir rise from 300 metres to 500 metres high, but the gradients are relatively gentle. At the top, you will have spectacular views of the Clutha River and gorge, and the surrounding region.
Mountain biking trails are suitable for intermediate riders. The terrain includes both flat reservoir-side sections and more challenging hill climbs. The open landscape provides good visibility for route-finding.
Photography opportunities are excellent, particularly in autumn when the landscape's colours intensify. The reservoir's reflections and the contrast between water and tussock landscape create striking compositions.
Fishing is permitted in the reservoir (check current regulations). The water supports brown trout, though fishing success varies with seasons and water levels.
The area is accessible year-round, though Summer heat can be intense. Early-morning or late-afternoon visits provide better light and cooler temperatures.
History
Butchers Gully was established during Central Otago's 1860s gold rush, when thousands of miners flooded the region. The settlement grew around gold workings in the gully, with miners establishing homes, stores, and infrastructure to support the mining community.
As with many gold towns, the prosperity was short-lived. When easily accessible gold was exhausted, miners moved to new fields, and the settlement declined. By the early 20th century, Butchers Gully was largely abandoned, and the reservoir followed.
How to Get There
From Alexandra, take State Highway 8 toward Dunedin. After approximately 12 kilometres, turn right onto Butchers Dam Road (signposted). Follow this gravel road for about 3 kilometres to the reservoir and conservation area car park. The drive from Alexandra is 20 minutes.
Nearby places to explore include Conroys Gully, Mitchells Cottage, the Obelisk Conservation Reserve and the Alexandra Millennium Track.
