Central Otago
There are few places in the world that leave you feeling like you've been somewhere really special. Central Otago is definitely one of those places.
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It's New Zealand's most inland region - the hottest, coldest and driest. It's breathtakingly different with its vast treeless landscapes, majestic schist clad mountain ranges and distinct seasons - moment by moment, it will quietly reveal its differences.
Take the time to discover everything there is on offer. Cycle a section of any of our four cycle trails, go mountain biking, wine drinking or road-tripping. Explore our rich history, and be charmed by the quaint townships of Ophir, Naseby and Clyde. Go on a self-guided tour. Try Curling at the International Curling Rink at Naseby. Sample a boutique premium quality Central Otago wine at one of the many wineries or cellar doors.
Central Otago is an experience that will enchant you - it truly is time out.
Alexandra Basin
Alexandra • Clyde • Earnscleugh • Galloway
Surrounded by craggy tor-studded mountain ranges that have been morphed and squeezed over many millennia and never far from the powerful Clutha Mata-Au and adjoining Manuherikia Rivers, take time to explore our place for yourself.
Enjoy a walk up to the Clock on the Hill, 4WD Driving, fishing, wine-tasting or simply have a picnic on the banks of the many dams in the area.
No matter where you go, there is a wonderful sense of rich heritage that can be felt, seen, and experienced - whether it's the magnificent schist piers of Alexandra's first bridge, the beautifully restored cottages or the delightful historic village of Clyde.
The Teviot Valley
Fruitlands • Lake Roxburgh • Roxburgh • Ettrick • Miller's Flat
The Mighty Clutha Mata-Au River flows right through the Teviot Valley, creating a stark contrast of the blue waters, to the green patchwork of orchards, and the rugged Knobby and Old Man Ranges.
This is true Central Otago country. It's pioneering history started with the Otago Gold Rush in the 1860s where fortunes were made and the rush lasted for over twenty years.
After the rush was over, many miners invested in farmers and orchards, where a new kind of fortune came about. It turns out that the microclimate of the Teviot Valley was the perfect environment for produce to thrive.
Nowadays, it's easy to see why the Teviot Valley is nicknamed the 'Fruitbowl of Central Otago'!
Cromwell & Bannockburn
Cromwell • Bannockburn • Kawarau Gorge • Lowburn • Pisa Moorings • Tarras • Bendigo •
Found on the intersection of the Kawarau River and the Clutha River, Cromwell was originally called 'The Junction'. The Junction was used as a resting spot for gold miners travelling between Central Otago and Queenstown and was renamed in 1863 it was renamed to Cromwell after the 17th Century English leader, Oliver Cromwell.
Cromwell's natural landscape were dramatically changed when the Clyde Dam was established between 1982 - 1993, and Lake Dunstan was formed. The Old Cromwell town was flooded by the project, but a few of the old buildings were relocated to the Cromwell Heritage Precinct.
Manuherikia & Ida Valleys
Omakau • Ophir • St Bathan's • Lauder • Becks • Poolburn • Chatto Creek
The Manuherikia & Ida Valleys showcase the rurality and modernity of Central Otago perfectly. The landscapes are dramatic, fascinating and beautiful. Visiting here is a deep breath of fresh air, hiding away from the hustle and bustle, and into the mountains, the rolling hills or the flowing streams.
This area has lived a thousand lives. The towns and locals will tell you this when they provide that excellent Kiwi hospitality as you visit what they call home.
The Manuherikia and Ida Valley's are diverse, timeless and exceptional.
Māniatoto Valley
Ranfurly • Naseby • Waipiata • Wedderburn • Patearoa • Kokonga • Dansey's Pass
With its intense mountain ranges fringing the open plains, the Māniatoto Valley is quintessentially New Zealand Country. With its brilliant blue skies during the day and dark velvet glistening skies at night, this is big sky country.
Rural, rugged and resourceful, the Māniatoto Valley offers endless recreational opportunities for locals and visitors alike. Biking, hiking, off-roading, art, history, swimming and more, the Māniatoto Valley brings out the wonder in everyone.
