Tables and chairs in a restaurant looking out to a lake.

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.

6 Central Otago Adventures & Where to Treat Yourself Afterwards

A dusty hill in Central Otago.
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.

6 Central Otago Adventures & Where to Treat Yourself Afterwards

A dusty hill in Central Otago.
Central Otago

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.

The Food & Drink Heroes of Central Otago

A woman working behind the cafe counter at Packing Shed.
Central Otago

From its unparalleled Pinot Noir wines to orchards of juicy plums, famous hand-crafted pies to crafty pale ales, the soil and kitchens of Central Otago erupt with flavour.

Meet 10 Creators and Curators of Central Otago

A woman working at a sewing machine.
Central Otago

Wandering the wild and beautiful landscape of Central Otago is sure to spark inspiration. Is it any wonder then, that the region is home to a thriving community of makers? From the quaint streetscape of Clyde all the way to Naseby’s whimsical forest surroundings, here are 10 creatives soaking up the magic of the land and weaving it into their work. Whether it’s unique landscape photography, boutiques that showcase local designers, woolly knits or charming ceramics, Central Otago is an Aladdin’s Cave of creativity.

Explore our Directory

View All

Waipiata Country Hotel

A close up of a pie being cut into.
Place Central Otago
Accommodation key icon. Bars key icon. Restaurants key icon.

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...

Janyne Fletcher Gallery

The exterior of Janyne Gallery Ranfurly Central Otago.
Place Central Otago
Galleries and museum key icon.

Central Otago has long been a magnet for landscape photographers eager to capture its breathtaking scenery.

Carrick Winery & Restaurant

A large glasshouse outside Carrick Winery Bannockburn Central Otago.
Place Central Otago Editor's Pick
Restaurants key icon.

A small single-estate vineyard producing wild fermented and certified organic wine in Bannockburn, Carrick Winery offers a multi-layered cellar door and restaurant...

Vulcan Hotel

A bed in a hotel room.
Place Central Otago Editor's Pick
Accommodation key icon. Restaurants key icon.

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...

Get your Pocket Guide for Central Otago

The front cover of the Central Otago Pocket Guide.

Danseys Pass Hotel

The wooden interior of Danseys Pass Hotel Central Otago.
Place Central Otago
Accommodation key icon. Bars key icon.

In Central Otago, getting away from it all doesn’t require a long road trip.

Lohi Linen

The inside of Lohi Linen Ranfurly Central Otago.
Place Central Otago Editor's Pick

Keeping the circular economy spinning in Ranfurly, Lohi Linen offers a relaxing retail environment built on purpose and passion.

Cromwell Heritage Precinct

The Cromwell Heritage Precinct in Central Otago.
Place Central Otago Editor's Pick
Stay and explore key icon.

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.

Sanga’s Pies

Close up of a mince pie.
Place Central Otago
Cafes key icon.

Started in 2021 and already a staple in hot cabinets across the South Island, you’ve likely spotted the golden glow of a Sanga’s pie during your Central Otago...

Forfar Road Gallery and Collectibles

Vintage scooter and furniture inside a retail store.
Place Central Otago Editor's Pick
Galleries and museum key icon.

While they may be a little quiet about it, the Teviot Valley is home to a community of some of New Zealand’s most talented artists.

Folklore Fine Goods

The black exterior of Folklore Fine Goods Clyde Central Otago.
Place Central Otago
Fashion key icon.

Folklore makes a strong impression down Holloway Street in the historic town of Clyde.

Blacks Hotel

A pool table inside Blacks Hotel Central Otago.
Place Central Otago
Accommodation key icon. Restaurants key icon.

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.

Floral and Feast Kitchen

A close up of a muffin and coffee.
Place Central Otago
Cafes key icon.

With its bright neon sign and a cabinet of all things nice, Floral & Feast is a cheerful addition to the Ranfurly community.

Feinerman’s General Store

A woman browsing products at Feinerman’s General Store Roxburgh.
Place Central Otago
Goods key icon.

Roxburgh may be a small town, but Feinerman’s General Store delivers a specialty grocery store experience that rivals even the big cities.

Three Peaks Coffee

The exterior of Three Peaks Coffee Clyde Central Otago.
Place Central Otago
Cafes key icon.

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

The wine tasting counter at Te Kano Bannockburn Central Otago.
Place Central Otago
Restaurants key icon.

Pulling up at the entrance to Te Kano is sure to garner some gasps from the passenger (or bike) seat.

Olivers

The outside of Olivers in Clyde.
Place Central Otago
Cafes key icon. Restaurants key icon.

A place to relax, sip and savour the best of Central Otago, Olivers is one of Clyde’s most celebrated destinations.