The Maniototo, includes a large open plain and mountain ranges in central otago in southern New Zealand. The region surrounds the upper reaches of the Taieri and Manuherikia Rivers and is bounded by the Kakanui Range to the north and the Rock and Pillar Range to the southeast. It has a harsh, dry climate, ranging from over 30#176;C in mid-summer to -15#176;C in mid-winter.br/br/The local economy is primarily based on agriculture and sheep farming in particular; the Maniototo area being reliant on irrigation that enables the basin to be a productive area. The total population of the Maniototo is approximately 1,910 people with the largest centres being Ranfurly, Naseby, Omakau, and Ophir.