Omakau
Omakau is a settlement in Central Otago, New Zealand, located between Alexandra and Ranfurly on the northwest bank of the Manuherikia River. The smaller settlement of Ophir, New Zealand is located on the opposite bank, three kilometres to the southeast.
Omakau | |
|---|---|
Rural settlement | |
Former Bank of New Zealand building | |
| Coordinates: 45°07′S 169°36′E | |
| Country | New Zealand |
| Region | Otago |
| Territorial authority | Central Otago District |
| Ward | Vincent Ward |
| Community | Vincent Community |
| Electorates |
|
| Government | |
| • Territorial authority | Central Otago District Council |
| • Regional council | Otago Regional Council |
| • Mayor of Central Otago | Tim Cadogan |
| • Waitaki MP | Miles Anderson |
| • Te Tai Tonga MP | Tākuta Ferris |
| Area | |
| • Total | 21.47 km2 (8.29 sq mi) |
| Population (June 2023) | |
| • Total | 410 |
| • Density | 19/km2 (49/sq mi) |
| Time zone | UTC+12 (NZST) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC+13 (NZDT) |
| Local iwi | Ngāi Tahu |
The New Zealand Ministry for Culture and Heritage gives a translation of "belonging to husband and wife" for Ōmakau.
Omakau grew when the Otago Central Railway was opened in 1904. Today Omakau has a population of about 250, and is a stopover on both State Highway 85 and the Otago Rail Trail.
Omakau is the site of many historic buildings, including the local hotel built in 1898 and the Catholic Church. Omakau also hosts the Central Otago A&P Show at the local domain, which attracts people from all over the country in February.