Winter scene, Lawrence
©Lou Farrand 2017
Welcome to Lawrence, Otago, New Zealand
Lawrence, in the Tuapeka District, was Otago's first gold-rush town. At the height of the gold fever, its population was 11,500; double that of Dunedin, making it one of the largest communities in the country at the time.
Today, with a population of around 450, Lawrence is a small but bustling community nestled in the beautiful surroundings of Clutha country. The surrounding Tuapeka area has a population of approx 1,600 and includes smaller townships from Beaumont across to Waitahuna.
Lawrence sits on State Highway 8, the main route between Dunedin and Queenstown, and with a wonderful collection of cafes and shops is an ideal location to break your journey.
Why not stay the night
Lawrence offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets, from boutique lodgings, top-class motels and self-contained accommodation through to the park like setting of the local motor camp. Why not stay a while and explore our beautiful town.
Immerse yourself in the wide range of activities available in the Tuapeka region. Get out and about and enjoy the fantastic scenic vistas or explore the history of Lawrence town and its beautiful architecture. Feeling active? Why not take a walk in the historic Gabriel's Gully, a spot of fishing at Lake Mahinerangi or a cycle down the spectacular Clutha Gold Trail which starts or ends in Lawrence. There's always time for a round at the town's idyllic 9-hole golf course or a stroll around the eclectic range of gift and antique shops and a relax in one of the cafes/restaurants.
Whatever you choose to do, you'll find friendly people who are happy to help and share this hidden little jewel in South Otago.
Download
The Tuapeka Times is a weekly newsletter distributed free to Lawrence residents. Click here to download the latest issue.
Subscribe
If you would like to receive The Tuapeka Times each week by email, please enter your name and email address below.