Dunedin

Kurow , North Otago

Kurow is the heart of a thriving rural community in the centre of the South Island, close to 45 South - the parallel that is exactly halfway between the Equator and the South Pole. Kurow lies on the junction of SH83 from Oamaru and SH82 from Waimate and has a population of 500.

Kurow is a popular spot for fishermen and boating enthusiasts. The area is a sportman's paradise, thanks to the fabulous lakes on the Waitaki River. People flock from overseas and throughout N.Z. to enjoy the outdoor pursuits and tranquillity. It is often remembered by the 'Twin Bridges' that cross the Waitaki River from North to South.

Kurow is an adaptation of Te Kohurau (meaning 'many mists' or, 'a hundred mists') the Maori name for Mount Bitterness (1091m) which is frequently covered by fog. A legend tells of a chief, pursued up the mountain by his enemies, who conjured up a heavy fog with an effective karakia (chant) which enable him to escape. Te Kohurau was also the name of the burial cave of Uneuku, a fabled chief of Hawaiki.

In the early 1930's, Kurow local doctor D.G. McMillan, Presbyterian Minister Arnold Nordmeyer and Mr A M Davidson headmaster of the Kurow school prepared the blueprint for reforms of the first Labour Government and today's welfare state, be drafting the basis of the Social Security Act in the old Presbyterian Manse. McMillan and Nordmeyer later became Cabinet Ministers. However, the streets of Kurow are named after Govenors of the last century.

Kurow has serviced workers from the series of dams built along the Waitaki River since 1928 when the Waitaki Power Station was built. The largest, Benmore Power Station was built from 1956-1965. Aviemore was built in 1968. The dam itself can be crossed over to a scenic drive around the north side of the lake up to the Benmore dam.