Like many of Central Otago's heartland towns, Ophir is steeped in gold mining history and rich in charm.
Located on the eastern banks of the Manuherikia River, between Alexandra and Ranfurly, Ophir was founded in 1863. It grew to become the biggest town in the Manuherikia Valley during the gold rush days, until the railway bypassed it.
Today, this small town is rich in historical buildings, including New Zealand’s oldest post office, and a popular stopover for cyclists on the Otago Central Rail.
