DescriptionEuropean settlers recognised the potential of the South Otago area for farming. The country was like that of Scotland, and it was determined that stock could be wintered by supplementing grass feed with crops such as swedes. The first few decades of farming were difficult with grain growth slow, the wool market low, and isolation causing restricted access to large markets for the sale of meat. However, farming was revived by goldrush money leading to investment in stock and station agencies. From the 1860s through to the 1890s, large runs dominated farming in South Otago with one owner managing vast amounts of land. MP John Mackenize established a number of land Acts which led to the breakup of runs throughout the country, and many in South Otago were sub-divided and opened for settlers. During this period, the population of South Otago soared. However, as changes in the agricultural industry occurred it become less viable to make a profit from smallholdings and many of these farms have been absorbed into neighboring properties. Today the Clutha District is predominately an agricultural based economy.
