NZ Tourism.com Central Otago Tours
This is a place of both adventure and reflection. Experience true solitude in an inspiring and timeless land. First time visitors are silenced and energised by this tumble of mountain, river, rock and tussock. See the grandeur of breathtaking vistas. The crystal clear light out here brings mountains within an arm’s reach and displays a star-studded night sky. It is a place of extraordinary contrasts, our middle earth.
Experience Central Otago
- Wild flowers
- Goldfields
- Heritage towns and tracks
- Unsurpassed stark beauty
- Angler’s paradise
You´ll ❤️ these great things to see & do…
- Discover the treasures of the Otago Central Rail Trail by foot, cycling or horse riding!
- Take to the ice for the age old Scottish sport of curling
- Follow the wine trails at Cromwell & Bannockburn, Clyde & Alexandra
- Fish for salmon on the Clutha River
- Visit roadside stalls for exquisite cherries, apricots, nectarines, peaches, pears, berries & apples.
Useful Central Otago Resources
Central Otago is a renowned wine-producing region in New Zealand. This historical region is also famous for its majestic mountains, weathered rock formations, rivers, and alpine herb fields.
Pinot Noir is the most famous grape variety grown in the region and is used for making wine. The wine produced from this grape is acclaimed worldwide. The soil structure in the region allows for easy drainage, making it ideal for wine production. Other grape varieties grown in the region include Riesling, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc, and Chardonnay.
The region was once famous for its gold rush and you can still find the trails used by the miners winding over the hills. Some of the other relics from the historic time include haunted hotels, mines, machinery, stone cottages, and water channels. Central Otago is also famous for its hiking tracks, wine industry, museums, and historic sites, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.
Central Otago can be easily accessed from Queenstown and Dunedin airports. You can also reach the region from Christchurch, Queenstown, Dunedin, and Invercargill by rail or road. However, before planning a trip to Central Otago, it is essential to analyze the weather, which is the hottest, driest, and coldest in the country. In winter, it is important to take extra precautions while driving as you can expect snow or ice anytime.
Central Otago Day Tours & Activities
Listing view
The Kawarau river is ideal for first time rafters or suited to those looking for a more relaxed rafting experience. There’s plenty of white water action, but also time to sit back, relax and enjoy the spectacular New Zealand scenery. Keep an eye on the other rafts though, as there’s a good chance of a water fight. It’s the Kawarau River that starred as the River Anduin in Lord of the Rings. The grandeur of the canyons imparts a feeling of paddling through the heart of Middle Earth. Whether you are a Lord of The Rings fan or not, this rafting trip offers an insight into the beauty of the New Zealand wilderness. Enjoy the unforgettable 400m long Dog Leg rapid. New Zealand’s longest commercially rafted rapid. Before returning to Queenstown, enjoy a sauna and hot shower at Cavell's Rafting base and perhaps treat yourself to a well earned hot chocolate, beer or snack at the licensed cafe. ....
