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.
The Great Country Pub Crawl of Central Otago
Whether you’re looking for a series of great pubs that intersect with your cycling route or need to break up the road trip with a cold brew and a charming room for the night, here are seven country pubs to add to your list.
Explore our Directory
View AllIndustry Lane Eatery
Easy-going and always welcoming, Industry Lane Eatery is a bright and bustling cafe that offers a comfy seat for all.
Wanderlust Books
Some adventures in Central Otago require two wheels, while others call for a stroll down to number 55 Centennial Avenue, where thousands of pages patiently wait to whisk...
Three Peaks Coffee
As you cross the Clyde Bridge from Earnscleugh, a small stucco building is waiting on the other side with a cup of specialty coffee – and a few buttery treats too.
Terra Sancta
Tucked away at the far end of Felton Road, an address that rings loud in New Zealand wine circles, Terra Sancta feels like a well-kept secret.
Bannockburn Hotel
Just over the bridge from Cromwell, Bannockburn Hotel perches on a hilltop overlooking lush vines and a stunning mountain range.
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...
Touch Yarns
In a charming white cottage on Sunderland Street in Clyde, a wonderland of wool awaits behind a bright red door.
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...
Floral and Feast Kitchen
With its bright neon sign and a cabinet of all things nice, Floral & Feast is a cheerful addition to the Ranfurly community.
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...
Jackson Orchards
On the highway just out of Cromwell, keep an eye out for a big tin building with pops of raspberry pink and you’ve found Jackson Orchards, a family-owned and operated...
Cromwell Heritage Precinct
If you find yourself in Cromwell or passing through the area, the Cromwell Heritage Precinct is a must-visit destination that deserves a spot on your itinerary.
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.
Lohi Linen
Keeping the circular economy spinning in Ranfurly, Lohi Linen offers a relaxing retail environment built on purpose and passion.
Vulcan Hotel
Tucked away at the end of a winding dirt road off the highway, the Vulcan Hotel feels like a step back in time, where you might half-expect a horse and carriage to appear...
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.
Carrick Winery & Restaurant
A small single-estate vineyard producing wild fermented and certified organic wine in Bannockburn, Carrick Winery offers a multi-layered cellar door and restaurant...
