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What to Do when you travel to central otago

Experience the thrill of a four wheel drive expedition into the mountains; be awed by the viaducts as you cycle the Otago Central Rail Trail; enjoy the solitude of an alpine trek; imagine the back-breaking toil of early gold miners at a heritage site; try your hand at curling, an ancient ice sport; take a lake cruise; and evoke your sensibilities in the art galleries and museums. Whatever you choose to do when you travel to Central Otago - you'll have an unforgettable experience.

Cycle Central Otago
Central Otago has impressive mountain ranges, valleys, plains and seasonal weather, which provide opportunities for a wide range of land activities. Cycling the Central Otago Rail Trail is achievable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness, but for those who want a more exhilarating experience, off-track mountain biking is a must.

Otago Walks and Treks
Walks and treks take you into places not seen from the main highways. They vary in their levels of difficulty and should only be attempted with the correct gear. The rivers offer pleasing catches to those keen on fishing, and hunting is also an option. Guided tours showcase some of the region’s best attractions.

Winter Wonderland
Winter brings promise of frozen dams and ponds upon which curling, originally brought here by Scottish miners, is played. Fortunately, the recently built international curling rink means the sport is no longer weather-dependent and the nearby ice luge and ice rinks offer their own excitement.

On the lakes aquatic activities are popular in summer and cruises are available.

Arts & Heritage
Artists often comment on Central Otago’s clear, natural light. What they produce is exceptional and often accessible at the region’s art galleries. Museums display and tell the stories of the local heritage. They are the perfect complement to the many heritage sites.

Whatever the season, there is always somewhere new to discover and something exciting or interesting on offer when you travel to Central Otago.


Air Activities Central Otago viewed from the air is a sight to behold. A series of valley systems, mountain ranges and lakes set under amazing blue skies ensures that whatever time of the year you fly the experience will remain with you. Take to the skies with a scenic or charter flight. Flights generally operate from Alexandra Airport, however a network of local landing strips means you can land at many other towns and locations throughout the region. READ MORE	Arts, Culture & Heritage Let loose your senses and explore Central Otago’s colourful past and creative community. Visit galleries and shops exhibiting artworks inspired by the extreme landforms and natural environment. Look and marvel at museum stories and displays highlighting the people, places and happenings that have shaped the past and present. READ MORE	ENTERTAINMENT & EVENTs Plan your wedding, push the boundaries; be challenged, entertained and inspired in Central Otago. Specialist entertainment, educational and business professionals are available to plan and develop events, activities and training programmes. READ MORE


Land Activities Discover by foot, two wheels or four wheels the essence of this vast hinterland. Take the high, low or off road route under your own steam or on a guided tour. Indulge your outdoor passion; whether it’s golf or hunting we have the space and the place. READ MORE	Water Activities The mighty Clutha River, Lake Dunstan, and the many meandering rivers provide endless opportunities for water cooled fun. Fill the summer days with boating, fishing, swimming, and other aquatic activities. In the winter frozen high country dams become ideal curling rinks. READ MORE	MUST DO'S Central Otago truly is a Must Do holiday destination. Cycling our trails at your pace; indulging in a wine in stunning settings, eating summerfruit picked straight from the tree, trying the ancient sport of curling, fishing, boating and picnicking on our lakes and rivers; playing golf on varied and un-crowded courses and so much more. Here is our list of favourites. READ MORE


Brand Users Businesses listed on this website who are approved users of the ‘Central Otago A World of Difference’ brand are identified by the logo shown within their listing. Every one has agreed to support and enhance our regional values. They are proud to promote and invigorate our distinctive identity and stay true to the regional vision. READ MORE	Qualmark Qualmark is New Zealand tourism's official mark of quality. All accommodation and tourism businesses that carry the Qualmark, means they've been independently assessed as professional and trustworthy, so you can book and buy with confidence. Qualmark has a star grading system for accommodation and a quality endorsement system for other tourism businesses. READ MORE