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.
11 Independent Food Producers of Central Otago
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.
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.
Explore our Directory
View AllStardust Gallery
Tucked away on Earne Street in the quiet and quaint town of Naseby, Stardust Gallery celebrates the breathtaking beauty of the Māniatoto’s land and skies.
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.
Te Kano Estate
Pulling up at the entrance to Te Kano is sure to garner some gasps from the passenger (or bike) seat.
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.
Feinerman’s General Store
Roxburgh may be a small town, but Feinerman’s General Store delivers a specialty grocery store experience that rivals even the big cities.
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...
Olivers
A place to relax, sip and savour the best of Central Otago, Olivers is one of Clyde’s most celebrated destinations.
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...
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.
Industry Lane Eatery
Easy-going and always welcoming, Industry Lane Eatery is a bright and bustling cafe that offers a comfy seat for all.
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.
The Post Office Cafe and Bar
On the corner of Blyth Street in Clyde, The Post Office Cafe and Bar is a beloved local gem with a rich past and warm, welcoming spirit.
Pinot Junction
Set in the heart of the Cromwell Heritage Precinct, Pinot Junction is a café and wine store with a sense of community that reaches well beyond the region’s...
Dicey
Tucked into the hillside on Felton Road, one of Aotearoa’s most famous wine stretches, Dicey is a breath of fresh Bannockburn air.
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...
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...
