Otautau

Otautau is a peaceful little town in rural Southland, about 40 minutes drive from Waihōpai Invercargill. Otautau is known as "The Heart of Western Southland", with a population of about 800 people. The town is the core of a farming community, once dominated by sheep farmers, now home to several dairy farmers as well.

In the historic courthouse on Otautau's main road, you will find Otautau Museum. Their collections consist of historical photographs, archival material, and other interesting objects related to Otautau and its surroundings. Please note: this museum is temporarily closed for collection conservation, but you can still admire the courthouse from the outside.

In the summer months, you can have a wonderful country experience in the orchard of Blueberry Country. Pick your own blueberries and enjoy fresh blueberry ice cream—a great activity with kids! If you'd like to stay a night in town, the Otautau Hotel is the place to go. It's a newly renovated country hotel surrounded by beautiful rivers, mountains, and bush.