Chaslands: Nature and Cemetery History

Chaslands brings together two distinct travel interests: the natural environment of Chaslands Scenic Reserve and local history, which can be explored on a walk through the cemetery. This places a large natural area alongside a clearly defined historical activity. When planning your stay, you can build on these themes and then decide whether the wider destination of Clutha District should be part of your travel plans.

Chaslands: Scenic Reserve and Cemetery History

Chaslands Scenic Reserve is classified as a scenic reserve under section 19(1)(a) of New Zealand’s Reserves Act 1977 and covers 1,439.71 hectares. Its legal status identifies the category of the area, while the figure indicates its size. Together, they provide a clear point of reference for anyone wanting to explore Chaslands from the perspective of its natural environment.

The historic Heathfield Cemetery is now called Chaslands Cemetery. A walk there offers the opportunity to learn more about the history of Chaslands. The 2025 Catlins visitor map estimates 30 minutes for the return walk to Chaslands Historic Cemetery, including historical interpretation. This connects the local history theme with a stated duration that can be taken into account when planning your day.

The Wider Setting: Clutha District

In the wider destination of Clutha District, the focus broadens to include the coast, cycling and seasonal experiences. Clutha District stretches along the coast between Dunedin and Invercargill and is a notable section of the Southern Scenic Route. This regional perspective complements Chaslands’ local themes with further options to choose from according to your travel interests.

For multi-day cycling trips, the Clutha Gold Trail is an option in Clutha District. It is 135 kilometres long, graded easy and rated difficulty level 1–2; the duration is two to four days. A 62-kilometre extension between Lawrence and Waihola opened on 25 August 2023. It connects the existing trail network in Central Otago and Clutha and provides a cycling route towards the east coast. Compared with the half-hour cemetery walk, the multi-day timeframe is a clear difference between two very different types of travel. Check current route information before planning a specific trip.

The coast is also a destination in its own right in Clutha District: the region has more than 200 kilometres of coastline and various surfable wave types, including beach breaks, river breaks and reef breaks. Kākā Point is a beach break with rocky points and is suitable for surfers from beginner to advanced level. Surf conditions vary with swell, tides and weather.

A seasonal cultural highlight in Clutha District is the daffodil show, held by Lawrence every spring on the grounds of Weatherston’s Brewery. Since seasonal programmes can change, check the specific dates before you travel. Those interested in agriculture can also find farm tours and hands-on encounters with animals in the district; individual operators and schedules may change.

Choose the Right Focus for Your Accommodation

The durations illustrate the difference: the cemetery walk is listed as 30 minutes return, while the Clutha Gold Trail takes two to four days. Consider which experiences matter most to you and how much time you want to set aside for them. This can help you align your accommodation search with the focus of your stay.

Discover more destinations: Balclutha, Lawrence, Kaitangata, Edievale, Owaka, Tarara, Milton, Larnachs Castle

For the wider travel overview: Clutha District.