Central Otago, with fewer than 16,000 permanent residents scattered over an area of 11,000 square kilometres, ensures that you will notice a change of pace.

Our gold history is still evident in the many museums and historic sites preserved by the dry Central Otago climate and many historic stone buildings are still in use today. The annual rainfall is as low as 350mm and summer temperatures average 24deg C. Central Otago has quite distinct seasons so you will experience the grandeur of Central Otago any time of the year.

The mighty Clutha River runs through the heart of Central Otago, with the nearby towns of  Alexandra and Clyde located on its banks.

Indulge in the fine wine and foods, from fresh fruit to wild herbs. Enjoy the abundance of food produced in an area which is becoming world renowned for its Pinot Noir wine.

Enjoy a walk in the hills, or along our walking tracks. The energetic may like to mountain bike the 150km Rail Trail (NZ’s first).

Perhaps follow a wine trail, visit art and craft galleries, or swim at our multi pool aquatic centre. In winter try ice skating or curling at our Olympic sized rink.

We are just an hour drive to Queenstown and Wanaka, and 2¼ hours to Dunedin.