Vast rolling hills burst into life with colour and freshness. Days warm, skies brighten, the fragrance of thyme fills the air. Blossom adorns the trees and vines, set against a backdrop of tussock and schist. This is the perfect time to explore this timeless region with family and friends.
Otago Central Rail Trail
The Otago Central Rail Trail journeys into New Zealand's heartland. This 150km-wide gravel pathway runs between Clyde and Middlemarch with a gentle gradient, making it ideal for walkers and cyclists. Explore this recreational passage of discovery that reveals truly breathtaking treasures unlike any other in New Zealand and not readily accessible by any other means.Gold Heritage
Spend the afternoon exploring the Old Cromwell Historic Precinct, wandering through the buildings watching artists at work. With a short drive to nearby Bannockburn you will glimpse past gold mining where sluicing has left its mark and visit award-winning wineries. Young and old can try their hand at gold panning at the Goldfields Mining Centre or view working water-powered machinery still operating as it did over 100 years ago.Sheer Indulgence
Central Otago has many vineyards in gorgeous, dramatic settings. Enjoy sitting outdoors surrounded by vines, supping an award-winning Central Otago wine, dining on local produce and feeling rejuvenated! The region is often referred to as the fruit bowl of the south, producing pipfruit - apples and pears; and summer fruits - apricots, cherries, peaches, nectarines and plums for export and local markets. Stop at a pick-your-own orchard and treat yourself to a Central Otago apricot or sweet, plump red cherry!
Roadside Fruit Stalls - Central Otago
The roadside fruit stalls around Roxburgh, Alexandra and Cromwell are a local cultural icon, selling tree-ripened fruits at the orchard gate. They offer easy access to an abundance of fresh, seasonal fruits for eating, preserving and cooking. Read MoreAlexandra Blossom Festival - Alexandra
New Zealand's longest running festival of its kind is a celebration of the arrival of Spring. The Festival attracts thousands of participants each year with five major events and more than 20 supporting events to entertain all ages. The 2009 Festival will be held 25 September to 3 October. Read MoreFish an Angler's Paradise - Central Otago
Heralded as an angler's paradise, Central Otago offers the fishing enthusiast world-class opportunities to indulge in the quiet pleasures offered by their favorite past-time. The region provides a fantastic variety of fishing opportunities in a place where vast mountain vistas are usually the backdrop. Read More
