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.
8 Christmas Destinations to Book Now Across New Zealand
A summer guide to eight of New Zealand's best holiday destinations, featuring the best places to make a pit stop, pull up a chair, have a mosey or unwind.
Creative Spaces Around New Zealand to Inspire Your Next Mindful Hobby
In a world increasingly dominated by screen time, many New Zealanders are seeking out something more tangible. Pottery classes are filling up months in advance, knitting needles are clicking back into fashion, and creative workshops are becoming social occasions in their own right.
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.
Explore our Directory
View AllFolklore Fine Goods
Folklore makes a strong impression down Holloway Street in the historic town of Clyde.
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...
Touch Yarns
In a charming white cottage on Sunderland Street in Clyde, a wonderland of wool awaits behind a bright red door.
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.
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...
Chatto Creek Tavern
On the highway between Alexandra and Omakau, this historic stone and mud-brick tavern has been a local icon since the days when travellers pulled up in horse and carriage.
Stardust 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.
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.
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...
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...
Domaine-Thomson Wines Cellar Door
Perched on a hilltop in Central Otago’s picturesque Pisa subregion, just outside Cromwell, Domaine Thomson is as much about diving into the region’s rich past as...
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.
Lohi Linen
Keeping the circular economy spinning in Ranfurly, Lohi Linen offers a relaxing retail environment built on purpose and passion.
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...
Janyne Fletcher Gallery
Central Otago has long been a magnet for landscape photographers eager to capture its breathtaking scenery.
Bannockburn Hotel
Just over the bridge from Cromwell, Bannockburn Hotel perches on a hilltop overlooking lush vines and a stunning mountain range.
