Exploring Danseys Pass Road
Danseys Pass Road is an adventurous trip across the Kakanui Mountains, connecting Naseby in Central Otago's Maniototo Plain to the Waitaki Valley on the border of Otago and Canterbury. This drive, which takes about an hour and a half, is rich with historical and natural attractions, making it worthwhile to spend a few days exploring the area.
Historical Background of Danseys Pass
The pass is named after William Dansey, one of the first Europeans to traverse it. Arriving in New Zealand in 1854, Dansey sought to acquire land and crossed the Kakanui Mountains from the Waitaki Valley in 1855, looking for farmland in the Maniototo Valley. Although he didn't find suitable land there, he became the lessee of the expansive Otekaike Station from 1857 to 1871. This station extended from the pass into the Waitaki Valley, reaching Duntroon and Kurow. The road was later constructed by Allan and John McLean, regional sheep station owners. In 1863, gold was discovered around Naseby, Mount Buster, and Kyeburn, near the southern end of the road.
Scenic Highlights and Historical Sites
Starting from Naseby, Danseys Pass Road has superb views of mountain ranges stretching from Lindis Pass towards the east coast between Moeraki and Shag Point. In winter, these ranges are often snow-covered, creating a striking contrast with the golden and green flats of the Maniototo.
As you leave the plain, the road leads into a historic gold mining area around Kyeburn Diggings. Here, you can explore a historic cemetery and remnants of the diggings along the Kye Burn river. Shortly after the cemetery, you'll encounter the Danseys Pass Hotel, also known as the Danseys Pass Coach Inn, dating back to 1862. Consider staying a night at this historic hotel or at the nearby Department of Conservation campsite.
The Ascent to Danseys Pass
Continuing from the hotel, the drive becomes steep, rough, and narrow as it ascends to Danseys Pass at 935 metres. The route winds through golden mountain tussock, offering several stunning viewpoints. To the east lie the remote 1,300-metre Kakanui Mountains, while the St Marys Range rises to 1,800 metres to the west. This area provides access to the Oteake Conservation Park.
Crossing into the Waitaki Region
Upon reaching the pass, the road crosses into the Waitaki region. The views here are spectacular, with a section of the road becoming sealed as it skirts the edge of a deep gorge carved by the Maerewhenua River. The road eventually connects to Livingstone Duntroon Road in the heart of the Waitaki Whitestone area, following the river to Duntroon in the Waitaki Valley.
How to Get There
To embark on this scenic drive, start from Naseby in Central Otago. From there, follow Danseys Pass Road as it winds through the Kakanui Mountains to the Waitaki Valley.
You will arrive in the Waitaki Valley near the interesting cliff and rock formations of Island Cliff, Elephant Rocks and Anatori.
