Overview
Balclutha is a town located in the Otago region of the South Island of New Zealand. It is situated on the banks of the Clutha River, which is the largest river in New Zealand by volume. Balclutha is an agricultural town, with a strong focus on sheep and dairy farming.
Balclutha Details | |
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Location | Balclutha |
Region | Otago |
District Council | Clutha District |
Postal Code: | 9230 |
Current Time: | 07:05 PM |
Date: | Sunday, September 08, 2024(NZST) |
Time zone: | NZST (UTC+12:00) |
Elevation / Altitude | 51.73 meters. Above Seal level |
Latitude | -46.2455 |
Longitude | 169.7237 |
DMS Lat | -47° 45' 16.3431'' |
DMS Long | 169° 43' 25.2545'' |
History
The area now known as Balclutha was originally settled by the Māori people. European settlers arrived in the area in the mid-19th century and the town of Balclutha was established in 1856. The town grew rapidly during the gold rush of the 1860s and it became an important hub for trade and commerce.
Geography
Balclutha is located in the fertile agricultural region of South Otago. The town is situated on the banks of the Clutha River, which is the largest river in New Zealand by volume. The surrounding area is characterized by rolling hills and farmland and there are several scenic drives and walking trails in the area.
Balclutha is located at latitude -46.24546026 and longitude 169.72368180 (decimal degrees), and approximately at latitude -47° 45' 16.3431'' and longitude 169° 43' 25.2545'' (DMS).
Below is map of Balclutha
Demographics
As of the 2018 census, Balclutha had a population of 4,230. The population is predominantly European, with Māori and Pacific Islander populations also present. The median age of the population is 43 years and the town has a slightly higher proportion of older residents compared to the national average.
Climate
Balclutha has a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. The town receives moderate rainfall throughout the year and occasional snowfall during the winter months. The average annual temperature is 10.6°C (51°F).
Balclutha Live Weather & 5-day Forecast: Stay informed on current and upcoming weather.
Balclutha Live Weather
Light rain
Humidity: 71%
Wind: 4.43 mt/sec towards SW
observed on 08 Sep 2024 09:00
Balclutha Weather Forecast for Next 5 days
10.07°C to 10.46°C
Light rain
13.7°C to 13.7°C
Scattered clouds
14.22°C to 14.22°C
Light rain
13.19°C to 13.19°C
Clear sky
13.85°C to 13.85°C
Scattered clouds
14.93°C to 14.93°C
Light rain
Landmarks and Tourist Attractions
Balclutha has several historic landmarks and tourist attractions, including the Balclutha Road Bridge, which is one of the longest single-span concrete bridges in the world. The town is also home to the South Otago Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region. Other popular attractions include the Catlins Forest Park and the Nuggets Lighthouse.
Economy
The economy of Balclutha is primarily based on agriculture, with sheep and dairy farming being the main industries. The town is also home to several manufacturing and service industries, including a meat processing plant and a hospital. Tourism is also an important contributor to the local economy, with visitors attracted by the town's scenic location and historic landmarks.
Nearby Schools
Sr. No. | School Name |
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1 | Balclutha School |
2 | BestStart Balclutha |
3 | Big River Educare |
4 | City Impact Church Childcare Balclutha |
5 | Rosebank Kindergarten |