Alexandra is centred near the heart of Central Otago at the junction of State Highway 8 and State Highway 85. The township was originally known as lower Dunstan then later on became Manuherikia and in 1863 it received the name it holds to this day. Named after Princess Alexandra, the settlement was one of the many Central Otago towns that prospered during the discovery of gold in the Central Otago region. When the gold rush tapered out, the town had to look to other means to support itself.

At the beginning of the 1900s mining races provided irrigation to the fertile soil. Coupled with the dry climate in the area orcharding multiplied rapidly. Today Alexandra flourishes with a new industry, wine making and viticulture. The local fruit stalls provide fresh cherries, apricots, nectarines, apples and peaches for you to sample.

Other popular activities include fishing for trout and salmon on the Clutha or Manuherikia rivers. Lake Dunstan also has sizeable stocks of fish. Alexandra is also home to the first class Molyneux Aquatic Centre can be a soothing getaway from the summer’s heat when temperatures can hit the high 30’s.

Events:

January

Art in the Garden

Easter

The Great Alexandra Easter Bunny Hunt

September

Alexandra Blossom Festival

November

Thyme Festival

December

Springvale Jazz, Wine and Food Festival