Chaslands: Scenic Reserve and Cemetery History

Chaslands in focus: reserve and cemetery history

Chaslands can be understood through two specific themes: the Chaslands Scenic Reserve and a walk that explores the area’s history. The protected area has a clearly defined legal classification and area; the cemetery walk covers a historical theme and has a stated duration. When planning your trip, it is also worth distinguishing Chaslands itself from the broader setting of the wider Clutha District destination.

The Chaslands Scenic Reserve

The 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. The classification and area complement each other: the designation identifies the legal category, while the hectare figure indicates the size of the area. Together, they give a clear measure for understanding the protected area. If protected status matters to you when choosing a destination, the classification offers a precise point of reference, while the area gives you a sense of its scale.

A walk to the historic cemetery

A walk to the historic Heathfield Cemetery, now Chaslands Cemetery, offers an opportunity to learn about the history of Chaslands. The 2025 Catlins visitor map lists the Chaslands Historic Cemetery, historical interpretation, and a 30-minute return walk. This gives the walk a clear focus on history and a specific timeframe for planning your day. It differs markedly from multi-day activities, which involve a different time commitment at the Clutha District level.

The broader setting: Clutha District

The wider Clutha District destination extends along the coast between Dunedin and Invercargill and is a remarkable stretch of the Southern Scenic Route. The travel ideas below belong to this regional setting. They complement the local points of interest in Chaslands with other themes, without equating the town itself with the regional offerings.

The Clutha Gold Trail is an easy Grade 1–2 route spanning 135 kilometres, with two to four days recommended to complete it. It includes a 62-kilometre extension between Lawrence and Waihola. Opened on 25 August 2023, it links the existing trail network in Central Otago and Clutha and heads towards the east coast as a cycle trail. Compared with the 30-minute walk in Chaslands, this multi-day trail requires considerably more time. Check current trail conditions before setting out.

Every spring, a daffodil show is held on the grounds of Weatherston’s Brewery in Lawrence. As seasonal programming can change, it is best to check dates for your travel period. The wider Clutha District also offers farm tours and hands-on encounters with animals. Individual operators’ offerings and schedules may change, so take these details into account when planning.

The Clutha District also offers a regional perspective for those interested in surfing: its coastline extends for more than 200 kilometres and includes 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. Conditions vary with swell, tides, and weather, which you should take into account when planning a surfing stop.

Tailor your search according to whether Chaslands itself or the wider region is the main focus of your travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Clinton, Edievale, Kaitangata, Tapanui, Balclutha, Tarara, Kaka Point, Lawrence

For the wider travel overview: Clutha District.