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 AllOlivers
A place to relax, sip and savour the best of Central Otago, Olivers is one of Clyde’s most celebrated destinations.
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...
103 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.
Te Kano Estate
Pulling up at the entrance to Te Kano is sure to garner some gasps from the passenger (or bike) seat.
Forage & Gold
The only thing sweeter than a roadside stall is one selling jars of locally made honey.
Industry Lane Eatery
Easy-going and always welcoming, Industry Lane Eatery is a bright and bustling cafe that offers a comfy seat for all.
Touch Yarns
In a charming white cottage on Sunderland Street in Clyde, a wonderland of wool awaits behind a bright red door.
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.
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.
Lohi Linen
Keeping the circular economy spinning in Ranfurly, Lohi Linen offers a relaxing retail environment built on purpose and passion.
Danseys Pass Hotel
In Central Otago, getting away from it all doesn’t require a long road trip.
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.
Folklore Fine Goods
Folklore makes a strong impression down Holloway Street in the historic town of Clyde.
Forfar Road Gallery and Collectibles
While they may be a little quiet about it, Teviot Valley is home to a community of some of New Zealand’s most talented artists.
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...
Bannockburn Hotel
Just over the bridge from Cromwell, Bannockburn Hotel perches on a hilltop overlooking lush vines and a stunning mountain range.
