Fruitlands

13km south of Alexandra on SH8 Known as Bald Hill Flat during the mining period, the area gained its name from an ambitious orchard enterprise established after World War 1.

When the scheme failed because of the severe climate, many Dunedin families as well as soldier settlers lost all they had invested. Old stone buildings in various states of decay are reminders of the boom days of the past.

The best surviving example is Mitchell’s Cottage, Symes Road (13km south of Alexandra off SH8). Shetland Islander, Johnnie Mitchell, started building his cottage in the 1880s. It stands on a great slab of rock and is a fine example of the stonemason’s art.

Mitchell is said to have carried for miles any stone he judged a perfect fit for the walls of his cottage.

A big rock in the area is named the Obelisk and visitors are encouraged to visit it.