Overview
Alma is a small rural village located in the Otago region of the South Island of New Zealand. The village is situated on State Highway 1, which runs between Dunedin and Invercargill and is known for its tranquil atmosphere and stunning scenery. Alma is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and offers a range of recreational activities including hiking, fishing and camping.
| Alma Details | |
|---|---|
| Location | Alma |
| Region | Southland |
| District Council | Gore District |
| Sub-District | Gore District |
| Postal Code: | - |
| Current Time: | 09:00 PM |
| Date: | Thursday, July 30, 2026(NZST) |
| Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
| Elevation / Altitude | 52.10 meters. Above Seal level |
| Latitude | -45.1200 |
| Longitude | 170.9200 |
| DMS Lat | -46° 52' 48'' |
| DMS Long | 170° 55' 12'' |
History
Alma was originally settled by Maori people who used the area for hunting and gathering. In the mid-1800s, European settlers arrived in the area and established farms and businesses. The village was named after the Battle of Alma, which was a significant battle in the Crimean War that took place in 1854. Today, Alma is a small but thriving community that celebrates its rich history and cultural heritage.
Geography
Alma is located in the Otago region of the South Island and is surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, including the Remarkables and the Eyre Mountains. The village is situated on the banks of the Clutha River, which is a popular spot for fishing and kayaking. The area is known for its rugged and beautiful landscape and is popular with hikers, campers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Alma is located at latitude -45.12 and longitude 170.92 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -46° 52' 48'' and longitude 170° 55' 12'' (DMS).
Below is map of Alma
Demographics
According to the 2018 New Zealand census, Alma has a population of approximately 120 people. The village has a diverse population, with a mix of Maori, European and Pacific Islander residents. The median age of residents is 47 years and the village has a relatively even gender split.
Climate
Alma has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cool winters. The village experiences moderate levels of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months being May and June. The area is prone to occasional snowfall in winter, which can create stunning scenery and excellent skiing conditions in nearby mountain ranges.
Alma Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Error: Unable to retrieve weather forecast data.Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
Alma is home to a range of tourist attractions, including the Clutha Gold Trail, which is a popular cycle trail that takes visitors through some of the region's most stunning scenery. The village is also close to the Roxburgh Gorge Trail, which is another popular cycle trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Other popular attractions in the area include the Alexandra Blossom Festival, which is held annually in nearby Alexandra and the stunning scenery of the Remarkables mountain range.
Economy
The economy of Alma is primarily driven by agriculture and tourism. The village is surrounded by productive farmland, which produces a range of crops including sheep, beef and dairy. The area is also popular with tourists and offers a range of accommodation options, including motels, bed and breakfasts and holiday homes.
Nearby Schools
| Sr. No. | School Name |
|---|---|
| 1 | Edna McCulloch Kindergarten |
| 2 | Fenwick School |
| 3 | Glen Warren Kindergarten |
| 4 | Holmes Kindergarten |
| 5 | St Joseph's School (Oamaru) |
Nearby Towns and Cities
| Popular Towns and Cities | |
|---|---|
| Alma, Otago | Alma Road, Alma |
| Alma | Brookfield, Otago |
| Deborah | Oamaru-alma Road, Alma |
| Richard Road, Alma | Robins Road, Alma |
| Stonewall Road, Awamoa | Tarfield |
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