Clifden, New Zealand facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Clifden
|
|
|---|---|
 Clifden
Location in New Zealand
|
|
| Country |  New Zealand |
| Region | Southland region |
| Time zone | UTC+12:00 (NZST) |
| Local iwi | Ngāi Tahu |
Clifden, New Zealand is a small, quiet community located in the Southland region of New Zealand. It sits right by the Waiau River, which is a well-known river in the area. Clifden is a rural place, meaning it's mostly countryside with farms and open spaces, rather than a big city.
Contents
Exploring Clifden's History
Clifden is home to some interesting historical spots that tell stories about its past. These places are important for understanding the community's heritage.
Clifden Suspension Bridge
One of the most famous landmarks in Clifden is the Clifden Suspension Bridge. This bridge is very old and important, so much so that the government has made it a Category I historic site. This means it's one of the most significant historical places in New Zealand.
The bridge is located about 99 kilometers north of Tuatapere. It's not just a bridge; it also has a special memorial. This memorial remembers the local soldiers who bravely fought and died in World War I. Their names are carved into the memorial, helping people remember their sacrifice.
Clifden Limestone Caves
Another cool place to visit in Clifden is the Clifden Limestone Caves. These natural caves have been a popular spot for visitors for a very long time. People have been exploring them since the first European settlers arrived in the area. Caves like these are formed over thousands of years by water slowly dissolving rock.
Learning in Clifden
Even though Clifden is a small community, it has a local school that helps educate the children living there.
Hauroko Valley Primary School
The main school in the area is Hauroko Valley Primary School. This is a state school, which means it's funded by the government. It's a primary school, teaching younger students. In 2017, the school expanded its classes. It now teaches students from Year 1 all the way up to Year 8. This helps more children in the community get their early education close to home.
