Central Otago

Experience true solitude in an inspiring place where fascinating cultural history tells a story of human endurance against a ruggedly beautiful landscape.

Central Otago – affectionately known as ‘Central’ – is home to welcoming rural outposts such as Alexandra, Clyde, Cromwell, Ranfurly and Roxburgh, where you can enjoy the famous southern hospitality in the utmost comfort, juxtaposed against a harsh landscape: New Zealand’s most inland region is also the hottest, coldest and driest. Enjoy a cold beer at an historic pub on a scorching summer’s day or a warming glass of the local Pinot Noir wine before a stone fireplace on a winter’s evening while you plan your next adventure – playing a round of golf at one of 11 regional golf courses, experiencing a 4WD adventure, trying the ancient winter ice sport of curling or just relaxing away from cell phone coverage.

DO IT. Explore the gold mining history on the Goldfields Heritage Trail, cycle the Otago Central Rail Trail, taste fresh summer stone fruits, soak up the atmosphere in Old Cromwell Town, experience a 4WD backcountry adventure, sample Pinot Noir at a local vineyard.

Destinations

Alexandra Business centre of Central Otago.
Cromwell Famous for fruit and its ‘Old Town’.
Ranfurly Rural Art Deco oasis and main town of the Maniototo district.

Getting there and around

Air The nearest airport is in Queenstown, which offers flights to New Zealand and Australian destinations.
Road Cromwell is 6 hours from Christchurch, 3 hours, 15 minutes from Dunedin, and 50 minutes from Queenstown. Alexandra is 6 hours, 30 minutes from Christchurch, 2 hours, 45 minutes from Dunedin and 1 hour, 20 minutes from Queenstown. Ranfurly is 5 hours, 30 minutes from Christchurch, 1 hour, 45 minutes from Dunedin, and 2 hours, 20 minutes from Queenstown.

Ride the Rail Trail

Built along a disused rail trail from the Gold Rush era, the 150-kilometre Otago Central Rail Trail is popular with walkers, cyclists and horse riders. With great scenery, history and accommodation along the way, this outdoor adventure is highly recommended.