36 Scotland Street, Roxburgh, Central Otago, Otago

Tucked away in the heart of Roxburgh, the charming cottages of Dalton's Deed tell a story of grit, gold, and generations past. These historic dwellings are more than just stone and timber, they're a tribute to the bold spirit of the 1860s gold miners who helped shape Central Otago.

In the wake of the gold rush, Daniel Dalton set sail from the U.K., drawn by the promise of fortune in New Zealand's rugged landscape. By the mid-1860s, he had staked his claim on the banks of the Clutha River. Thanks to a unique Government scheme, registered gold miners could secure residential land, but only if they built a home within two years. Fail, and the deed would be lost.

Daniel seized the opportunity. Around 1865, he built a humble single-room cottage at 36 Scotland Street. In a surprising twist, he registered the property under the name of his 13-year-old son, William. A decade later, he added a second, slightly larger two-room cottage, quietly expanding the family homestead.

Today, these historic cottages serve as boutique tourist accommodation, offering guests a rare glimpse into the lives of early Otago miners. Now, a new chapter beckons. Dalton's Deed is ready for fresh custodians - those with a passion for heritage and a heart for storytelling. Will you be the one to carry on the Dalton legacy?