The railway line was once a vital link between the city of Dunedin and Central Otago and for 83 years brought a steady stream of commerce and activity to a number of towns in the region. As roads improved the 150km stretch of line became redundant and was closed in 1990. In 2000 the railway line was relaunched as the Central Otago Rail Trail for bikers and walkers. Steeped in a sense of history and remoteness, it provides a chance to view scenery not able to be seen from the highway. It also preserved, largely intact, an important part of Otago's history - www.otagocentralrailtrail.co.nz.
If you are walking or biking the entire rail trail Kokonga Lodge is approximately one third of the way from Middlemarch or two thirds from Clyde. A sign indicating the way into the lodge is visible from the trail.
If you plan to do sections of the trail, Kokonga Lodge is perfect stay-put accommodation from where you can walk or bike the more interesting sections of the trail and explore other parts of the region. Take a few days out to absorb the delights of the Maniototo while enjoying the hospitality provided by Kokonga Lodge.
