Skip to content

Bridges - Past & Present (Central Otago) Traditional Cache

This cache has been archived.

TheCur8or: As there's been no cache to find for a long time, I'm archiving it to keep it from showing up in search lists, and to prevent it from blocking other cache placements.

Please note that if geocaches are archived by a reviewer or Geocaching HQ for lack of maintenance, they are not eligible for unarchival.

More
Hidden : 4/29/2010
Difficulty:
1.5 out of 5
Terrain:
1.5 out of 5

Size: Size:   small (small)

Join now to view geocache location details. It's free!

Watch

How Geocaching Works

Please note Use of geocaching.com services is subject to the terms and conditions in our disclaimer.

Geocache Description:

1st Bridge


The original stone work that formed the piers and bank support structures of the two earlier bridges can still be seen, above and below the modern bridge.

If you park at the Parking Coordinates there is no need to venture onto this busy road.
If you do, for any reason, cross the road please be careful.

2nd Bridge

TEVIOT VALLEY HISTORY (history & photos off the "Net")

Several hundred years before the European settlement, the Roxburgh Valley was used by Maori as a route between coastal Otago and the West Coast for greenstone collecting expeditions. Evidence of these excursions remain, campsites, ovens and moa remains, particularly in the Millers Flat and Moa Flat districts. In 1853 Nathaniel Chalmers with several Maori guides set off from Mataura bound overland for Lake Wakatipu. On their return journey they passed through the valley by raft on the River Clutha, making him the first recorded European to travel through the Roxburgh Valley. By 1857 the first squatters had arrived, Walter Miller and John Cargill, and they made claim to the first pastoral leases. Miners ventured in from the overcrowded Tuapeka fields in the 1860's and discovered gold by panning, pick and shovel. By the 1880's many large dredging operations were in progress in the river Cluta and many surrounding areas continuing well into the next century. Joseph Tamblyn was said to be responsible for the orchard industry in Roxburgh as we know it, by purchasing a few fruit trees from a passing swagger in 1866, including the famous

Roxburgh Valley, The Knobbies, Old Man and Mount Benger Ranges, lush leafy orchards, and the icy waters of the Clutha River typify this unspoilt area of Central Otago. Whether tramping in the tussock-clad hills or picnicking by the river, its timeless beauty will always astound you. Clear spring days herald the beginning of a new season with a patchwork of fruit orchards in full blossom woven across the valley floor in subtle hues alongside the bright shoots of the young willows and poplars. A sheer contrast to the beautiful autumn shades - an artist's haven. A four wheel drive onto the surrounding ranges is a great place to view such wonders, also the outlying farmlands and historical relics. Take a lunch and truly escape. During the summer months the roadside stalls are busy selling a fine array of their fruits, plums, cherries, apricots, nectarines, peaches, an abundance of different berries, not forgetting the tasty crisp apples. If outdoor activities are more your style, there is something for everyone.
The magnificent Clutha River, one of the fastest in the world, boasts some of the best salmon in New Zealand, whilst the surrounding lakes are well stocked with brown and rainbow trout.
Lake Roxburgh is the ideal spot for all watersports, kayaking, jet-boating, skiing, or just plain sailing.
The tramping tracks and walks are endless, with short, long, steep, some gently following the river, but all interesting and beautiful, while the same can be said of the mountain biking and horse riding. Maybe just a look at the local museum to absorb some of the diverse history, a visit to the local vineyard or a stroll around one of the nearby picturesque gardens would be enough to satisfy some of the more unhurried visitors to our lovely valley. Whatever your pleasure, please enjoy.



It is a signature container

Additional Hints (Decrypt)

Fgnl ba gur sbbgcngu - ab arrq gb tb bire gur srapr. Tbvat bire pbhyq or qnatrebhf

Decryption Key

A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M
-------------------------
N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z

(letter above equals below, and vice versa)