When Ophir’s current Postal Manager, Val Butcher, was appointed in 2002, she continued an unbroken tradition that goes back to 1 October 1863 and Ophir’s first Postmaster, James Swanson, who also operated a general store where the Post Office was located. Ophir Post Office is now...

Ophir is a village which ranks alongside St Bathans and Clyde as one of the country's most authentic and significant settlements from early gold mining days (1860s – 1900s). The town sprang into life almost overnight when gold was found on Charles Black's farm in April...

During the early days of the Ophir gold rush, the Manuherikia River was a dangerous and hazardous barrier; many people and horses drowned while attempting a crossing. The need for a bridge became critical. After intense lobbying by locals, the Vincent County Council commissioned County Engineer,...