The old Maheno Shops

The Newlands’ shop.

Photo courtesy of North Otago Muesum.

Introduction

In Maheno township there are a few abandoned shops left from a time when Maheno was buzzing with lots of shoppers. I wanted to find what happened to a busy shopping township.

Population

1890	525 (average school attendance 105)
1940	620 (not a big increase - due to people moving to cities and war)
1990	Maheno wasn’t listed, as it was included as North Otago.
1996	3,807
2001	3,573
2006	3,705

Maheno Township

Photo courtesy of North Otago Muesum.

Who owned the shops?

Newlands 1st , Jimmy Barron, Savilles, Crow, Foas, Wilson, Wallace, Watson, Woods, Preslands, Clark, Cartright, Fea.

What happened to the shops?

Most buildings were either burnt down or flooded. There are only 5 shops left in the Maheno district.

When did they close the shops?

The last to close was in 1984/1985.

The first to open was Newlands General store in the 1800’s.

What are the shops used for now?

Butchery is used for a store room. Bottle store used for storage. Boy Scouts Hall is used for storage for the Bowling Club.The Bakery is used as a house.

Were there any other shops in Maheno?

Yes there was. Beside the Maheno bowling green was Kings’s Garage, over State Highway 1 from the bowling green was the Fish ‘n’ Chip shop.

In Reidston, Tomatoes – Mr Henry Cooper – 1980’s – 1985. Strawberries – Louis Hore. Raspberries – Lesley Seldon.

Are some shops still going today?

Only 2 businesses are operating, Maheno Tavern and the Maheno Garage, but at the garage you have to have a Mobil card to get petrol. It has recently closed.