Central Otago is a region touched by history, with a powerful landscape of ancient mountains, weathered rock formations, alpine herb fields and fast rivers.
Central Otago is a region touched by history, with a powerful landscape of ancient mountains, weathered rock formations, alpine herb fields and fast rivers.
Browse our collection of images to see what the region has to offer:
A landscape that tells stories of times gone by
In ancient times, Maori travelled through Central Otago on their way to the pounamu
rivers of the west coast. Hunting parties also visited the region - they built
rafts and used the Clutha River to transport moa and other game back to the east
coast.
More recently, in the 1860s, Central Otago was the scene of a gold rush. Trails
used by miners can still be seen winding over the hills. Stone cottages, a haunted
hotel, cleverly engineered water channels, mines and machinery are other relics
to discover. You can still try your luck with a gold pan, or be satisfied with
the golden sweetness of a Roxburgh apricot.
Nowadays, Central Otago is the scene of a ‘wine rush’. Pinot Noir has become
one of the region’s newest treasures, and many of the wineries welcome visitors
for tours and tastings.
Key Features
Gold history Retrace the steps of the hardy gold miners who carved their living from the harsh
and often unforgiving environment. Relive their experiences in the museums and
historic sites throughout the region.
Premium Pinot Noir The mountain valley vineyards of the world’s most southerly wine region have
excelled in recent years. In particular, the vibrant, spicy flavour and velvety
texture of Central Otago Pinot Noir has earned wide acclaim.
Tracks and trails Around the hills of Central Otago, the hiking tracks are almost endless. Many
were created by miners during the gold rush; others lead to alpine herb meadows,
secret valleys and strange rock formations.
Key Tips
Allow 1 ½ hours to drive from Queenstown airport to Alexandra. Dunedin airport
is a 2 ½ hour drive away.
The region is readily accessible by main highways from Christchurch, Dunedin,
Invercargill, Queenstown and the West Coast via Wanaka.
Many small towns do not have petrol pumps, so make sure you fill your vehicle
before visiting more remote areas.
During winter - June to August - road conditions will demand extra care and attention
by drivers. Ice and snow can be expected.
Related Links
Journals
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Mountain Biking Goldmine The several mountain bike trails enable visitors to enjoy first-hand the landscape, tranquillity and history that makes Central Otago so unique.
www.newzealand.com Pages
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Geography and Geology New Zealand has a stunning variety of landforms — from spectacular alpine glaciers and massive mountain ranges to rolling green farmland and long sandy beaches. Find out how this country was shaped.
Experience the beauty, solitude and remoteness of the High Country.
Seasonal Tips
DURING YOUR VISIT
In spring, there can be a vast difference between night time and day time temperatures. Frosts and icy roads are still likely, so take care.
Once the snow has cleared from the high country, the first wildflowers appear. Sometimes slopes can be found fully covered in one of the many mountain daisy species.
The fruit-growing areas of the region are bedecked with blossom. Alexandra's annual Blossom Festival is held each year when the town's cherry trees are in full bloom.
