Otematata
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Otematata is a township in the Waitaki District of North Otago, in New Zealand's South Island. The 2001 Census identifies the "usually resident population count" for Otematata1 was 243. However, this was considerably higher in the 1960s during the construction of the Benmore Dam.
Surrounded by rugged peaks and beautiful lakes of the Waitaki Valley, this area echoes with tales of long ago. The earliest inhabitants were Maoris on hunting expeditions or traveling through the valley to reach the inland areas and mountain passes. The Maori name Otematata means `Place of good flint.'
Otematata township was built in 1958 as a base for the construction of the Aviemore and Benmore Dams. ECNZ (Electricity Corporation of New Zealand) used it as a base until the early 1990's.
ECNZ's presence is now minimal, and Otematata is becoming a village of holiday homes. It is a popular holiday village with a hotel, restaurant, camping ground and basic services.
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