Old Cromwell Town Historic Precinct, South Island, New Zealand

Buried deep in the waters of Lake Dunstan, divers could locate the footings of an old gold town from the 1860's named Cromwell. However,with the need for power in this century a hydro-electric dam was built and old Cromwell was in danger. So the little town was moved to higher ground and reconstructed using original designs and  materials similar to the old main street shops of old Cromwell.

Wild flowers on display at the fused glass artist shop. 

Today, it's a unique heritage attraction with shops and stables for modern day artist and craftsmen to display their wares. The endless creativity of the local talent of Central Otago, can be found here and in other galleries and craft shops through out the valley. There is a cafe for relaxing with a good cup of coffee plus a bakehouse if you need a snack to hold you over. Hollyhocks, roses, irises and many other old world varieties of domestic flowers abound throughout the historic town.  A easy way to start or end your  day.                                                                                                              

Lake Dunstan
Old Cromwell, Galleries of many local Central Otago artist and craftsmen.
www.cromwell.org.nz/

Submitted by: Bernadette Heath, photographer and writer and Janet Webb Farnsworth, writer. of "Grandma Needs a Four-Wheel Drive, Adventure Travel for Seniors."  Web page: www.grandmaneedsafour-wheeldrive.com.