Despite (or perhaps because of) its wild and untamed nature, Central Otago’s rocky and rugged terrain lends itself to a world of experiences designed to delight every sense.
Home to biking trails, a famous food and wine scene, dramatic skies, gold rush relics, mud-brick cottages and so much more, this region is a playground for foodies, outdoor enthusiasts, creative spirits and history buffs.
From Roxburgh to Ranfurly, Cromwell to Clyde, and Omakau to Oturehua, each township offers something unique – with breathtaking vistas accompanying the journey from one destination to the next.
For those in search of culinary experiences, you needn’t look far for a world-class glass of pinot noir, a bag of juicy stone fruit picked fresh from one of many orchards, or hearty homemade pies served at country pubs that date back to the 19th century. The food landscape bounces from cabinets filled with cheese rolls to fine dining wineries, with a fierce commitment to stocking kitchen fridges and pantries with local produce.
The Otago Central Rail Trail is one of the most well-known attractions, drawing in thousands of cyclists throughout the year. However, the region boasts three other ‘Great Rides’ of New Zealand, as well as thrilling mountain biking tracks, curling rinks, luges, and more.
Whether you prefer your itineraries relaxed or set at top speed, our Central Otago guide proves it’s simply impossible to run out of things to eat, drink, see and do in this one-of-a-kind place.
48 Hours Central Otago
Boy, is there a lot of ground to cover in Central Otago. Here's our guide if you're there for the weekend or 48 hours.
11 Independent Food Producers of Central Otago
When winding through Central Otago roads, you may have noticed that it’s never far between roadside stalls, orchards and fertile gardens. When we think of this beautiful region of Aotearoa, we cast our mind to plucking juicy stone fruit straight from the tree, jars of homemade preserves with sweet handwritten labels, and a community that loves to be elbow-deep in soil.
The Best Places to Dine Alfresco in Central Otago
There is something inherently joyous about dining in the great outdoors, and when your surroundings are as attractive as Central Otago, that just adds another layer of special seasoning to the experience.
One of the Locals: Your Insider's Guide to Central Otago
As an awestruck visitor to the Central Otago region, your trip will likely be a combination of leisurely wine tastings, gold rush history lessons, mandatory stops at every scenic viewpoint, and the inevitable helmet hair. And trust us, all of those things will add up to a very good time.
6 Central Otago Adventures & Where to Treat Yourself Afterwards
Famous for its hundreds of trails and tracks to traverse on two wheels or two legs, Central Otago is the kind of place you can return to time and time again and always uncover a new adventure. And while that’s an exciting prospect, it can be a little overwhelming at first to find where to even begin. That’s what we’re here for.
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View All103 The Store
Some destinations in Central Otago involve fast-flowing rivers or lush orchards, and others reward the traveller with a cheese roll topped generously with butter.
Forage & Gold
The only thing sweeter than a roadside stall is one selling jars of locally made honey.
Muddy Creek Café
It may be a petite town, but Muddy Creek Cafe provides one big reason to hit the brakes and pull up in Omakau.
Quartz Reef
Tucked away in an industrial pocket of Cromwell, just down from Pinot Noir Drive and Chardonnay Street, Quartz Reef may not offer sweeping vineyard views, but that’s...
Janyne Fletcher Gallery
Central Otago has long been a magnet for landscape photographers eager to capture its breathtaking scenery.
Tarras Village
Just 30 minutes from Wānaka and 20 minutes from Cromwell, Tarras Village is a delightfully unique and unexpected stop that has become a destination in its own right.
OCTA Gallery
Set inside the Cromwell Heritage Precinct’s Belfast Store, OCTA is a living gallery space that houses a world-class collection of original limited-edition prints by...
Historic Hayes – Engineering Works and Homestead
Thought you weren’t into tools and machinery? A trip to Hayes Engineering Works & Homestead may just change your mind.
Waipiata Country Hotel
Waipiata may be just a wee speck on the South Island map, but its one-and-only pub has become a magnet for travellers seeking a comfortable bed, hearty meals, and a warm...
The Packing Shed
After your first visit to The Packing Shed, you’ll find yourself torn between sharing this hidden gem with everyone you know and wanting to keep it as your little secret.
Blacks Hotel
In a handsome Art Deco building that marks the turn off into Ophir, Blacks Hotel is a quintessential country pub that has seen its fair share of history.
Folklore Fine Goods
Folklore makes a strong impression down Holloway Street in the historic town of Clyde.
Paulina’s Bar
Right on the corner of Holloway and Naylor Street, Paulina’s Bar is the pub of Clyde, an unpretentious, welcoming and much-loved gathering place where regulars know...
Black Forest Cafe
Named after the local woodland, Black Forest is known by Naseby locals as the best little cafe in New Zealand. We can certainly see where they got that idea.
Te Kano Estate
Pulling up at the entrance to Te Kano is sure to garner some gasps from the passenger (or bike) seat.
Industry Lane Eatery
Easy-going and always welcoming, Industry Lane Eatery is a bright and bustling cafe that offers a comfy seat for all.
The Stoaker Room
Tucked off the highway near Lake Dunstan and the neighbouring Freeway Orchard, The Stoaker Room converts old wine barrels into unique cooking apparatuses that steam and...
