There are few places in the world which will leave you with a lasting sense of difference. Central Otago is undoubtedly one of them from its landscapes, its seasons, its people, its products and experiences.
Moment by moment it will quietly reveal its differences to you in subtle and unexpected ways.
Our Place. Central Otago
As New Zealand’s most inland region. We're a collection of townships and rural communities scattered throughout some amazing landscapes.
Central is a place where you can leave the stresses of work behind and just relax, soak in the atmosphere and let the rejuvenation process begin.
Our Towns & Communities
Ranfurly, Naseby & the Māniatoto
Roxburgh & Teviot Valley
Cromwell & Bannockburn
Alexandra & Clyde
What's on in Central Otago
In Central Otago, we like a good get-together. Whether we're throwing curling stones down the ice, racing mountain bikes around the trails, or listening to live music in beautiful surroundings.
Central Otago Events
Heritage Talk - The 1906 Molyneux Coal Mine Fire
Thursday, 16 July 2026
New Zealand & Oceania Pool Championships
Thursday, 16 July 2026 – more dates
Russell Clark: The City Hotel Gold Rush Murals
Thursday, 16 July 2026 – more dates
Christmas in July Lunch
Sunday, 19 July 2026
Highlands Track Laps Breakfast
Sunday, 19 July 2026
CromCom - Josh Thomson, Justine Smith & Paul Ego
Friday, 24 July 2026
Jenny Mitchell - Heart Like A House Concert Tour Goes to the Theatre
Saturday, 25 July 2026
Winter Ball
Saturday, 25 July 2026 – more dates
Everybody Knows by Laser Kiwi
Friday, 31 July 2026
Central Otago Literary Series
Saturday, 1 August 2026
Spend quality time with your tastebuds
Central Otago is a place of sheer indulgence - whether it's fine dining, a casual al-fresco lunch or café culture. You will be spoilt for choice.
New Zealand's original great ride.
The Otago Central Rail Trail was the first of its kind. To be honest, a lot of people thought we were mad to put a cycle trail where the railway once was.
But it seems to have caught the imagination, with everyone from those on a mission to do it as fast as they can, to those in no hurry at all. Until they’re feeling thirsty, at least. It’s allowed many of the small townships on the route to be re-energised, with cafes, restaurants and boutique accommodation springing up. And, of course, it’s breathed new life into our old pubs.
Careful. A few of the locals were visitors, not so long ago.
It doesn’t matter if you’ve been here for five minutes or five generations, this place gets under your skin. Not just the landscape, but the locals, too. They’re only too happy to share local knowledge, advice, and more than a few yarns. Before you know it, you’ll feel right at home. Or maybe even make it your home.
Central Otago Local Directory
Our Central Otago townships are home to a diverse range of businesses, community groups, creatives, and artisan producers.
Whether you need your tap fixed, want to join a gym, or wondering where you can buy locally made products. Our directory of local businesses and community groups will help connect you with a local options.
Share your Central - #centralotagonz
OUR REGIONAL VALUES
Make a Difference
Be at the cutting edge, setting directions and accepting challenges.
Respecting Others
Take the time to listen and understand other people’s opinions and cultural differences.
Embracing Diversity
Be open to new ideas, open to exploring the possibilities and appreciate the strengths and talents each person brings.
Adding Value
Always ask ourselves is there a better way – one that achieves a premium status, quality experience or interaction.
Having Integrity
Seek to be open and honest in all our interactions.
Learning from the past
Choose to learn from past experiences with the future generations in mind.
Making a sustainable difference
Make decisions with the community in mind and in harmony with the natural environment so we can help create the kind of place we can be proud of.
Protecting our rich heritage
Protect and celebrate our rich heritage in landscapes, architecture, flora, fauna and cultural heritage.
Meeting our obligations
Do the right thing by our region and check what legal requirements need to be met before you get started.