Clarks Mill

Planned from 1865 as part of Totara Estate and one of 13 flour mills in North Otago, this complex tells the story of pioneering entrepreneurship and innovation, the rise and decline of the wheat growing and flour milling industry once central to the district’s economy, and changes in land use and ownership. By the time it finally ceased operation in 1976, Clarks Mill had witnessed all manner of human dramas and outlived most contemporary local mills by half a century.

The heart of the site is the imposing building, constructed of local limestone. It houses a rare collection of roller milling machinery installed in 1893. The machinery has been lovingly restored to operating condition by a team of dedicated volunteers who get the machinery grinding into action on a regular basis.

Check out the operating times to ensure you enjoy the whole experience and see, hear and feel what work in the mill was like when the machinery rolls into action. Other highlights include the original water race, the railway line built in 1877 to connect the mill to the main trunk line.