Must-Do's Lower South Island 2022-23

Voted the most extraordinary experience in the

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in October 2022 by AA Tourism Publishing Ltd Level 1, Building 2, 61 Constellation Dr, Mairangi Bay, North Shore, Auckland 0632

PO Box 101 001, North Shore, Auckland 0745

966

966

SOUTHERN LAKES

TOWNSHIPS

VISITOR

TANYA LARSEN

Buzz

Did you ever

Wonder?

THIS CORNER OF THE COUNTRY IS ONE OF THE WORLD’S MOST HEAVENLY PLACES, WITH QUEENSTOWN, WĀNAKA AND FIORDLAND EACH STUNNING WITH THEIR OWN APPEAL.

TOP SPOT

As the launch pad for Mt Aspiring National Park, Makarora sits snugly between Wānaka and the West Coast. A magnet for trampers, there are both short walks and long treks. You can jet boat up Wilkin Valley, take a scenic flight or head to the Blue Pools. Just 10 minutes by car from Wānaka, these glacier-fed pools are deep, but so clear you can see to the bottom.

Paradise Ziplines Travel via eight scenic ziplines on a wilderness adventure in the Oxburn Stream valley. Paradise Ziplines tours depart from Glenorchy.

National Transport and Toy Museum, Wānaka A staggering collection of more than 60,000 toys can be found here, from antique dolls to scale model cars, LEGO and the largest display of

Star Wars memorabilia in New Zealand. The museum also has vintage cars, aircraft and military exhibits, filling four huge allweather buildings.

Mavora Lakes Conservation Park Consisting of two lakes –North and South Mavora – this park boasts a beautiful landscape. You can fish, boat, hunt, horse ride, mountain bike and tramp

here. The Mavora Greenstone Walkway is the ultimate challenge – a 50km, four-day tramping trip passing through open valley tussock land and beech forested hill country.

Horse Trekking and Quad Biking Whichever your mode of transport, you can check out rural New Zealand on a series of treks that offer stunning scenic views.

Overlooking Queenstown © Adobe Stock BELOW LEFT: Lake Wakatipu, Queenstown © Destination Queenstown

WALKS & HIKES

BEN LOMOND TRACK

– QUEENSTOWN – 6-8 HOURS A demanding full-day hike with a 1438m elevation. It’ll take at least six to eight hours to get to the summit and back, but the views are arguably Queenstown’s best.

BIG HILL TRAIL, ARROWTOWN

– 4 HOURS ONE WAY This was once the main route to Macetown; now the old bridle trail climbs from Bush Creek via Eichardt’s Flat with the effort generously rewarded at the top.

LAKE ALTA TRACK While this is not a long walk, it includes a steep and rocky climb. Lake Alta is a glacial lake in the heart of The Remarkables Conservation area; the track begins from The Remarkables ski field. Lake Alta sits 1800 metres above sea level so it’s a true Alpine environment and you need to be prepared for fickle weather.

SKYLINE LOOP TRACK – 30 MINUTES RETURN Take the gondola up to Skyline Queenstown. Walk past the luge to the reservoir, turn right at the signpost and through the trees before descending back to the Skyline.

THE DEVILS CREEK TRACK, QUEENSTOWN – 5-6 HOURS Navigating a mix of conservation and private land, a saddle climb rewards with great views of the Wakatipu Basin.

MOTATAPU RIVER TRACK, WĀNAKA – 34KM ONE WAY, 3-4 DAYS

Following much of a historic route that linked Wānaka and Arrowtown areas, this alpine tramp resonates best with experienced parties. See gold mining relics, stone walls , dams, beech forest and waterfalls.

HISTORY & CULTURE

• Fiordland Vintage Machinery MuseumRev those engines and roll on up to this quirky collection of working tractors and motorbikes. Old-fashioned machinery, a traditional telephone exchange, timeless memorabilia and even a fully operational Blacksmith Shop are here. The museum, in Te Anau, also documents the town’s history.

• Nokomai StationNestled in its own valley at the foot of the Garvie Mountains in Northern Southland, this rural retreat is well worth a visit on this route. When else will you get the chance to visit an authentic historic high country sheep and cattle station? Take a farm tour to understand the farming way of life and visit the Hereford cattle and merino and Romney sheep.

• Te Anau Community Market - ‘Gaze, Graze and Be Amazed’ is the sweet little strapline of the local Te Anau farmers’ market. Stallholders meet indoors at the Te Anau Community Centre on Sundays to sell their wares and wholesome produce. Enjoy a chin wag with the local artisans.

Boardwalk,

MAKARORA

Feet First Roys Peak Track is #1 contender for most popular walk; Mt Iron and Isthmus Peak are great, too.

LAKE HĀWEA

Bike Trails There are over 750km of mountain biking tracks here; download the Wānaka Tracks app for details. Bike Glendhu is the newest bike park with 35km network of trails. Open early spring to late summer.

WĀNAKA CARDRONA ARROWTOWN

Ski Fields There are three ski areas within 40 minutes of Wānaka (Cardrona, Treble Cone and Snow Farm). You’re also on the doorstep to Soho Basin. For the extra adventurous there’s heli-skiing. Island Hopping & Camping Lake Wānaka has four islands all of which can be reached by a day cruise or kayak. You can stay overnight on Mou Waho and Te Peka Karara Island using the DOC campsites.

GIBBSTON FRANKTON

Florence’s Foodstore and the Rhyme X Reason Brewery.

QUEENSTOWN KINGSTON GLENORCHY

Back Blocks Set away from the lakefront is a collection of secret niceties. Discover Maude Wines Tasting Room, Bistro Gentil,

Ferrata Rock Climbing Using steel rails fixed into the rock makes summit views accessible for almost every fitness level. Contact Wildwire Wānaka.

Wineries Rippon Vineyard & Winery overlooks Lake Wānaka and offers exceptional views and free wine tasting. Call to check they are open.

Wānaka Lavender Farm Ever tried lavender ice cream? Head here for aromatic flower fields, resident farm animals, fragrant products and of course, a tasty, purple-hued dessert.

More Wānaka Must Do’s... Hook Wānaka is a popular day out and ‘lake to plate’ salmon experience. Dog sledding, skydiving and 4WD adventures are also on the menu.

TOP TIP: Walking the perimeter of Diamond Lake only takes 45 minutes but adding a one-and-a-half hour ascent to the Rocky Mountain summit is worth it for the extra special views.

Roys Peak, Wānaka © WānakaNZ ABOVE: © The Warbirds over Wānaka

Horse trekking, Wānaka © Johan Lolos

Wānaka Lavender Farm © Victoria Caffrey

TOP TIP: A small rocky island on Mou Waho Island has led to the motu’s nickname as the ‘island on a lake on an island on a lake on an island on a lake.’ Eco Wānaka Adventures run a fantastic tour here.

The Revology Concept Store and Tea Rooms Dedicated to circular design and mindful living, browse the thoughtfully curated selection of sustainable items then relax over a cuppa.

Crossfire Family fun galore just 10 minutes out of Wānaka. Challenge yourselves on their locally themed mini-golf, archery, clay-bird shooting, driving and rifle ranges.

National Transport and Toy Museum A vast collection of rare vehicles, nostalgic vintage Star Wars’ toys and a cabinet of Barbies.

The Warbirds and Wheels Museum Housing rare classic vehicles, World War aircraft and modern jets. Afterwards, grab a shake at the 1950s Retro Diner.

Forge and Feast Food Tours On this immersive foodie adventure you’ll meet, forage, explore and eat local, home-grown and wild foods.

Puzzling World Explore a 3D maze, illusion rooms, The Tilted House and enough visual trickery to skew your mind for months.

Wānaka Artisan Market Every Thursday from 3-6pm, a row of stalls pop up outside the Speight’s Ale House selling locally made crafts and treats.

The Precinct is a stylish community of high-end shops, elegant spaces and Wee Tart, a polished coffee shop-cum-milk bar with a white-washed terrace to rival Mykonos.

Clutha River Swimming Point On the shores of Lake Dunstan (35 minutes from Wānaka). Small but tranquil, the water is as clear as glass, there’s a small bed of sand and free barbecue facilities.

That Wānaka Tree: its lone existence and mountainous backdrop make it one of the country’s most photographed and most famous trees. Access is from the Waterfall Creek Track car park.

ABOVE: Mou Waho Island, Lake Wānaka © www.ecowanka.co.nz

BELOW: ‘That Wānaka Tree’, Lake Wānaka © Miles Holden

MOUNT ASPIRING

Home to 100 permanent glaciers, welcome to a hiker’s paradise with a spectacular difference.

MAKARORA

WĀNAKA CARDRONA ARROWTOWN

River Track follows the river from Wānaka to the lake’s edge in three hours and The Kidds Bush Nature Reserve track is an easy half-hour loop. An energetic 20km (one way) track around the lake takes 10 hours. Rated as advanced. LandEscape An eco-friendly cycling adventure in Hāwea farmland, combining cycle trails, e-bikes and wood-fired outdoor hot tubs.

The Siberia Experience During the course of this full-on day, you’ll be flown into mountainous wilderness and left to hike through remote alpine river valleys. Once you’ve reached the jet boat, you will be whisked home.

Rob Roy Glacier Track This 10km-return track serves up great views of Rob Roy Glacier.

Canyoning Sign up for a full day of waterfall abseils, jumps, chute sliding and squeezing into normally inaccessible places.

Scenic Flights To admire this achingly beautiful terrain from above, soar around Mount Aspiring and Mount Aspiring National Park by scenic flight.

Loo With A View Climb to the bush line to reach DOC’s Liverpool Hut on the Liverpool Track. Why? Because the elevated long drop provides one of the best views in the country.

Routeburn Track Great Walk

This Great Walk traverses both Mount Aspiring National Park and Fiordland National Park. On any given day you’ll be walking through clouds, staring into crystalline blue lakes or trailing between enormous glacier-carved valleys.

LAKE HĀWEA QUEENSTOWN

paddleboarding. Hāwea Flat WhiteWater Park on Hāwea River boasts a never-ending wave for surfers, kayakers and boogie boarders never-ending fun.

Mountain Bike to Wānaka

GIBBSTON FRANKTON

Trout and Salmon Fishing Yes, there’s fish in the lake. Or visit High Country Salmon Farm, approx one hour 40 minutes from Hāwea, to see how salmon is farmed.

Aquatic Fun When the wind kicks up, try a spot of kite surfing on the lake. When it’s laying low, try

The Lake Hāwea Circuit route is a 50km loop connecting Wānaka and Lake Hāwea on quiet, rural roads.

The Camp Lake Hāwea’s most comprehensive campground has lake-fronting glamping, cabins, safari tents and more. A summer food truck serves wood-fired pizzas.

4WD Safari Join Ridgeline New Zealand for a 4WD exploration of the remote Lake Hāwea Dingleburn Station.

Wyndrok Pottery Pop into this charming studio and admire – then buy – beautifully glazed ceramics.

Lake Hāwea © Barbara Gilies

ABOVE LEFT: Mt Aspiring National Park © Victoria Caffrey

BELOW: Makarora Blue Pools, Haast Pass

Adobe Stock

CARDRONA

Royalburn Farm Shop Owned by famous foodie Nadia Lim, this store stocks organic and homegrown produce from their own farm, Royalburn Station.

occupied by 19th century Chinese miners. Duck inside to appreciate their modest size.

GLENORCHY

Buckingham Street Shopping Arrowtown’s main streetis special, with its heritage buildings, art galleries and multiple interesting stores and boutiques.

Chinese Miners Settlement

Just 400m from Buckingham Street is a handful of thatched huts once

Dorothy Browns A charming wee cinema with a bar and bookstore.

Arrow River Trail An easy, onehour looped walk that starts and ends at Butlers Green. The Sawpit Gully Trail leaves from the Chinese Settlement and traces the river before delving into beech forest and tussock-covered slopes. It takes between two to three hours.

MAKARORA

Cardrona Alpine Resort In winter, skiers and snowboarders make full use of the well-connected runs, good lifts, beginner slopes, lessons and eating places. In summer, the gondola runs allow for mountain biking and three-wheel carting.

New Zealand’s Highest Bike Park Riders of every level descend on Cardrona Bike Park for the variety of downhill trails. There are also beginner tracks and lessons available. Open December to April.

Cardrona Hotel A drinking hole since 1863, the façade is pleasantly reminiscent of an earlier time.

Cardrona Distillery

Producers of various artisan single malt spirits and seasonal liqueurs. Small group tours allow for 75-minute exploration into the process, with generous tastings.

The Junction Inside a tiny historic building, opposite Cardrona Hotel, lies an emporium of treasures.

TOP TIP: Base yourself in Arrowtown for the best of both worlds. You’re close to the action but in a cocoon of peace and quiet.

Farmers’ Market From Labour Weekend until Easter Sunday, this Sunday market takes place around the Library Green. 10am-2pm.

The Winery Stocked with varietals from boutique wineries that don’t all have their own cellar doors.

Chantecler Gardens Situated halfway between Queenstown and Arrowtown, this 4.8ha beauty features a series of themed gardens and orchards.

Lakes District Museum & Gallery A lively museum packed with interesting displays. The vintage village and inventive treasure hunts are a big hit with kids. Hire gold pans from here.

Akarua Wines & Kitchen by Artisan The courtyard is draped in blossoming trees and weeping willows and the lawn is scattered with beanbags. Sip on wine while picking at enormous platters of cheese and charcuterie.

Dudley's Cottage Precinct Two buildings, including one of the area’s oldest stone houses, are home to an art studio and gift shop; behind that, The Dishery Bistro, with locally brewed beers, and a bike hire and tour business.

Arrowtown Botanical This dainty art store and gallery showcases New Zealand’s best, botanically inspired artists.

Lake Hayes Walk Pack your camera for this walk with mountain reflections and weeping willows.

ABOVE: Biking in Arrowtown

© Destination Queenstown

Cardrona Bra Fence In 1999, four bras mysteriously appeared on a rural fence. It’s since grown by hundreds. Located on the driveway entrance to ‘The Cardrona Horse Trekking and Quad biking’, it’s all for a good cause – there’s a donation box for breast cancer.

The Cardrona Horse Trekking & Quad Biking Experience Cardrona’s rugged high-country on horseback or quad bike. Conveniently located next door to the distillery, but maybe go there after!

Cardrona Hotel © Kate Craig Brown

Snow Farm At New Zealand’s only cross-country ski area, there’s 50km of terrain for skiing, ski-skating and snowshoeing as well as a familyfocused Snow Fun Zone for tubing. In summer there are MTB and hiking trails and year-round backcountry huts for overnight stays.

Sled Dogs Ride with traditional Arctic sled dogs with Underdog NZ, just 40 minutes out of Wānaka. Available over winter and summer months.

© Cardrona Alpine Resort

QUEENSTOWN KINGSTON GLENORCHY

Jet Boat Skid across Lake Wakatipu at hair-raising speeds, then blast down Kawarau and Shotover rivers. Shotover Canyon Swing The world’s highest cliff jump with 60m of freefall.

Hydro Attack This semisubmersible watercraft speeds across Lake Wakatipu and dives to 2m. Fun Riverboarding Surf down Kawarau River while navigating grade 2 and 3 rapids on modified bodyboards.

Ziptrek Ecotours Swoop over the treetops on two exhilarating ziplines, culminating in a 21m drop.

Queenstown Paraflights Set off by boat and then lift into the sky; up to three people can fly at once. Skippers Canyon Road This precarious road drops vertically into the Shotover River and is so hairy,

rental car companies won’t allow their vehicles near it. Consider taking a 4WD tour or if you’re fit, mountain biking is an option.

4WD Off-Roader Professional drivers will take you and two mates for a spin around the custombuilt course. This white-knuckle experience tackles near vertical hill climbs and descents, rock features and many other crazy components.

Hot Air Ballooning Rise early for an 1800m-high exploration of The Remarkables and Wakatipu Basin. Kayak Dart River on a Funyak and explore the dramatic landscape of Mt Aspiring National Park, a UNESCO world heritage area.

Queenstown MTB Bike Park Gondola ride up, then hit one of the 30 world-class downhill trails with 450m of vertical descent.

TOP TIP: Take a rugged 4WD safari tour to explore historical Macetown. You’ll cross the Arrow River 25 times as you head deep into the high country.

Wellness

Miller Road Fragrances Indulge yourself and your senses at this perfume workshop. With 60 perfumery materials to choose from and expert insights into making a balanced fragrance, you will learn how to construct a scent and can take a bottle of it home.

Spa at Nugget Point This luxurious Grecian-style spa is located at Nugget Point Hotel. The range of facilities include fantastic plunge pools, sauna, steam room, rose shower and hot tub – the perfect place to unwind after a long day.

Onsen Hot Pools Sit in your own private spring-fed hot tub before sweeping alpine views. Each cedar tub enjoys its own private room and a retractable roof to bring the outdoors in.

TE ATAMIRA A new multipurpose art and cultural space holding exhibitions and workshops throughout the year. Delve into the latest works or installations on show or sign up to printing, pottery or weaving classes with expert tutors.

Ski & Winter

CORONET PEAK

The rolling, open slopes include 280 skiable hectares and slopes for all abilities. This ski area also offers night skiing for every skill level plus on-mountain dining.

THE REMARKABLES SKI AREA

A favourite with families, three sundrenched, north-facing, snow-filled bowls cater for all abilities. Plenty of on-mountain spots to stop for lunch including an Ice Bar.

CARDRONA ALPINE RESORT

More than 465 skiable hectares of dry, natural snow for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Crosscountry and freestyle skiing here too. One hour’s drive from Queenstown.

TREBLE CONE Intermediate (and above) riders, as well as those comfortable with steep descents, go wild for the vast expanse of varied terrain with truly exceptional views –just 90 minutes from Queenstown.

HELI-SNOWMOBILING Catch a ride in a chopper and feel the thrill of buzzing about on snowmobiles across pristine snow at elevations of up to 1800m.

MAIN IMAGE LEFT:

INSET:

Ecotours,

Peak High Country Farm

OUTDOORS

Queenstown Gardens Home to landscape gardens, a playground, rose garden, frisbee golf, accessible trails and mere steps from shorefront.

Walter Peak High Country Farm Established in the late 1800s and accessed via a TSS Earnslaw scenic cruise. The farm now runs tours and

sheep demonstrations, followed by traditional afternoon tea.

Stargazing Undisturbed by light pollution, the Queenstown region is blessed with a star saturated night’s sky. Operators in central Queenstown offer compelling galaxy tours.

Fly Fishing With scenery this epic and water this clear, it’s worth pulling your waders on. Welcome to an angler’s paradise, with backcountry rivers open for fishing from November onwards.

Coronet Loop Trail Queenstown’s newest crosscountry trail, with over 50km of spectacular backcountry and gold-mining heritage to discover on this epic singletrack trail. Queenstown Trail Offers over 130km of cycle trails.

TOP TIP: Over The Top Helicopters deposit golfers 1372 metres above sea level on a golf course only accessible by chopper.

ACTIVE RELAXATION

> Tracks & Trails –Glenorchy Walkway, Queenstown Hill Time Walk, Ben Lomond Track, Queenstown Trail

> New Zealand’s Great Walks – Access to the Routeburn, Milford and Kepler tracks

> Golfing at Jack’s Point, Millbrook Resort, Frankton, The Hills and Queenstown Golf Club

> Pedal a three-wheeled aqua bike across stunning Lake Wakatipu

> Cycle to Kelvin Heights Peninsula for a picnic and a dip in the lake

> Self-guided wine tour on an e-bike with Around The Basin Bikes

> Queenstown Art Trail Walk around Queenstown uncovering galleries and studios, then hit the road for an art-finding odyssey around the Wakatipu Basin

ABOVE:

SCENIC

TSS Earnslaw This traditional steamship has been gracing the waters of Lake Wakatipu since 1912. Enjoy a 1.5-hour cruise and explore the vessel’s vintage engine room.

to Glenorchy, reachable via the Bob’s Cove Track.

Lake Alta Track Lake Alta is a striking glacial lake 1800m above sea level and 200m above The Remarkables ski field buildings, where this 90-minute walk begins.

Heli Flight to Cecil Peak

Cover all of Queenstown’s highlights by air. Glide over Lake Wakatipu, fly above historic Skippers Canyon, then land on Cecil Peak for more unprecedented views.

Glenorchy Air Appreciate the full scope of the landscape is by scenic flight. Sunrise over Mt Aspiring is particularly memorable; a rare, romantic experience like no other.

Drive the Crown Range

There are two routes from Queenstown to Wānaka. This is the shorter one, passing non-stop glorious views and one of New Zealand’s most iconic places – the Cardrona Hotel.

LAKE HĀWEA

Horse Riding Head deep into Queenstown’s back country on horseback with jagged mountainscapes, pristine rivers and lakes providing a dramatic backdrop.

Skyline Guided Walk Ride the gondola to the start of two guided walks: The Ben Lomond Saddle and Summit Hikes.

WĀNAKA CARDRONA ARROWTOWN

Bob’s Cove This secluded cove on Lake Wakatipu lies 20 minutes out of Queenstown on the road

GIBBSTON

Loop Around Moke Lake Just 25 minutes from Queenstown this two to three-hour walk around the lake with several uncrowded swimming spots makes for a serene escape.

Movie Buffs Feel Tolkien’s trilogy come to life as you visit the magical landscapes that inspired Peter Jackson’s film locations for the Lord of the Rings movies. Tours take you through Queenstown, Glenorchy and beyond.

FRANKTON

Buzzstop Bee & Honey Centre Sample sticks of gooey honey and learn more about bees. Don a bee suit and join an experienced beekeeper in opening an active hive.

QUEENSTOWN

The Kelvin Heights Sculpture Trail This easy, 3.5km looped walk features an assortment of sculptures gifted by an anonymous donor.

KINGSTON GLENORCHY

Frankton Track Set off from Queenstown Gardens, skirt the edges of Wakatipu Lake, pass Kawarau Falls Bridge and the Hilton Hotel before finishing up at Queenstown Golf Club.

Ride To The Sky From Country Lane, embark on a three hour guided e-bike tour. Powering 800m above sea level, drink up Queenstown’s best views by peddling to the top of Grants Peak.

TOP TIP: Taste, shop and play at Country Lane’s boutique precinct on Frankton’s fringe.

GLENORCHY

MAKARORA GIBBSTON

Glenorchy Road The 46km drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy is renowned for its jaw-dropping beauty. Drivable in 45 minutes, in reality you’ll want a lot longer, to appreciate spectacular forest, lake and mountain views.

Glenorchy Animal Experience

Grab a bag of pellets and the animals will eat straight from your hands. This family run farm is home

to an assortment of jovial farm animals.

Glenorchy Walkway On a blue-sky day this easy walk dazzles. The boardwalk absorbs enchanting wetland, Mt Earnslaw views and chirpy birdsong for one to two hours.

Paradise Ziplines Boasting an eight-line zipline course, pick the one that suits your daredevil level.

QUEENSTOWN KINGSTON GLENORCHY

KINGSTON FLYER CAFÉ & BAR A fetching wee place in the premises of an historic railway station, right by the water's edge and with an outdoor courtyard. The Kingston Flyer steam train has been lovingly restored and public trips are running again.

EYRE MOUNTAINS CONSERVATION PARK Hiking opportunities for the adventurous tramper. The landscape is isolated and physically demanding, with walks ranging from 90 minutes to six hours. There is also mountain biking, horse trekking and 4WD tracks.

AROUND THE MOUNTAINS CYCLE TRAIL(S) Explore the best of Queenstown, away from the crowds. Tracing the banks of Lake Wakatipu, under the careful watch of Eyre Mountains for four to five days.

DEVIL'S STAIRCASE A simply stunning pull-in at the side of an already spectacular road. The vast lake is framed by gigantic mountains: a beauty whatever the season.

From sky-high glides across forest treetops to floating mere metres above Orc Chasm.

Sunrise at Glenorchy Wharf

At sunrise, when the water's placid and the mountains shimmer over Lake Wakatipu, it's picture-perfect.

Paradise By no means a large place, most people go for a selfie with the road sign and the scenic 25km drive there. When Sir Ian McKellen (Gandalf) saw Paradise, he remarked ‘This is the Middle earth™ I had always pictured.’

Camp Glenorchy Eco Retreat In keeping with its alpine surroundings and built to the world’s highest level of sustainability standards, guests can stay in modern cabins, bunk huts or powered campervan/RV sites, and access yoga classes, the

cosy campfire shelter and a shared kitchen.

Off-road Self-drive Take charge of one of Delta Discovery’s 4WD electric vehicles to explore Glenorchy’s stunning rugged terrain quietly and independently.

Mrs Woolly's General Store

For an array of locally made South Island mementos, look no further. These homely cabins are packed with quirky gifts, fresh food, a book exchange and good coffee.

High Country Horses

MAKARORA

Equestrians won't want to miss this experience. Combining guided horse treks with non-stop spectacular views, trot over terrain barely touched by humankind and remote landscapes used for the Lord of the Rings film trilogy.

WĀNAKA CARDRONA ARROWTOWN

LAKE HĀWEA

GIBBSTON

FRANKTON

GUIDED WINE TOURS Gibbston is renowned for producing awardwinning pinot noir and the valley is home to a fine collection of cellar doors. Guided tours are a fantastic way to maximise your time and discover the best of them.

winemakers in action, swing by the cellar door, gorge on cheese at the Cheesery & Deli or hire a bike and ride the Gibbston River Trail.

QUEENSTOWN

KINGSTON GLENORCHY

GIBBSTON RIVER WINE TRAIL Drive 10km to the historic Kawarau Suspension Bridge. Once there, cycle or walk high above the Kawarau River to Gibbston, an 11km jaunt that cuts through Central Otago’s premier winegrowing region.

GIBBSTON VALLEY WINERY Boasting New Zealand’s largest wine cave, this is also the region’s oldest vineyard. Take a tour, watch

PAQOCHA ALPACA FARM Get to know rare Suri alpaca. Feed them, grab a selfie and learn more about this motley crew’s wild antics. Farm stays are also possible.

VINEYARD PETANQUE Stay overnight amidst the vines at Kinross Estate. As well as comfortable accommodation and outdoor hot tubs, guests can play petanque in the vineyards.

OXBOW ADVENTURE This new venture offers exhilarating off-roaders, jet sprint boats and clay bird shooting.

TOP TIP: The Gibbston Valley Shuttle operates between downtown Queenstown and Gibbston Valley Winery two to three times per day.

Wānaka Food & Drink

kika You’ll want to book ahead for this Michelin star worthy eatery. They take inspiration from global flavours delivering sharing style plates in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Mo’s Café This is a popular pit stop with cyclists riding around Lake Hāwea. You’ll be hard pressed to find better coffee, and their sandwiches and home baking are enough to make you come back for more.

Charlie Brown Crêpes This cute little caravan flips between serving up sweet and savoury options.

Relishes Café Get your breakfast fix at this relaxed café with plenty of choice on the waterfront. Do yourself a favour and grab one of their heavenly cheese scones to take away.

Alchemy Bistro & Wine Bar

This bustling little lake-fronted venue

serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Tititea Steakhouse & Bar Calling all carnivores! This place is serious about meat. Sink your teeth into one of their primo cuts cooked to perfection while relaxing overlooking Lake Wānaka.

Patagonia Chocolates Need an afternoon sugar lift? Patagonia is second to none when it comes to their in-house made chocolates and ice cream varieties. Their special hot chocolates it the spot après ski.

Wanaka Hotel

Pembroke

Queenstown

Arthur’s Gourmet Sandwich Shop Specialising in custom sandwiches, breakfast-to-go, salads, jacket potatoes, sweet treats, coffee from local roasters, Black Lab.

modern dining experience celebrates the best of local produce under the mastery of world-class chefs.

Arthur’s Point. You’ll also find a refined food menu and locally brewed lager for an alternative.

Little Aosta Their menu pays homage to northern Italian cuisine, utilising local produce. True homestyle, family-friendly food for the soul.

This large and loud Tex-Mex bar makes great frozen margaritas; be sure to take time to feast and enjoy the music.

El Camino Cantina

The Bavarian Their affordable and family friendly dishes are perfect for hungry people. Try their freshly baked pretzels, roast pork belly and schnitzels.

The Locker Room Sports Bar Brimming with North American influence, they offer comfort food, including a separate vegan menu, good beer and live sports all day.

Oro Restaurant Based in the Carlin Hotel, this sophisticated

Gin Garden Queenstown’s first boutique gin tasting room is a 10-minute drive out of town in

Coco Cabana by Franks Just a 5-minute walk from downtown, this fun café has a tropical twist with its Tiki Bar theme, pizza hut and colourful restaurant.

Wakatipu Brewing This brew-pub sits in the heart of town, introducing visitors to a range of craft ales and lagers, quality burgers and banter in a cosy space.

Fergburger These world-famous burgers are joined by Fergbaker, Ferg’s Bar and Mrs Ferg Gelateria.

Explore the Fiords Te Anau makes an excellent base for your Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound adventure, as well as the main visitor hub for exploring Fiordland’s remarkable landscape.

The Milford Road It’s a spectacular two-and-a-half hour drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound but you could easily spend all day exploring its beauty. One of the most scenic drives in Aotearoa, it’s steep and windy with no petrol stations en route, so fill up in Te Anau first. Check out the famous Homer Tunnel.

Fiordland Historic Cruises

Enjoy a gentle glide across Lake Te Anau on-board Faith a lovingly restored 1934 motor yacht. Help to hoist the sails, explore the ship’s vintage quarters and alight for a short bush walk to Hidden Lake.

Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Take the boat across Lake Te Anau to the waterfall and glowworm grotto.

Miles Better Pies Gourmet venison pies are the stuff of legends in Te Anau. The seafood and lobster version is pretty special too.

Jet Boat Waiau River Career down the crystal-clear waters of the Waiau River to Lake Manapōuri with Fiordland Jet. Lord of the Rings’ fans will be delighted to hear this is River Anduin in the film trilogy.

Lake2Lake Cycle Trail This easy five-hour bike ride journeys along the Lake Te Anau shorefront before following the banks of Waiau River to Lake Manapōuri. Ride there and back in a day or book the return shuttle to Te Anau.

Fiordland National Park

You’ll be pushed to find anywhere better for nature lovers. With 1.2 million hectares of mountain, lake, rainforest and 14 fiords – the most famous and more easily accessible being – Piopiotahi/ Milford Sound, Pātea/ Doubtful Sound, Tamatea/Dusky Sound and Rakituma/ Preservation Inlet. Fiordland’s wildlife include seals, dolphins, penguins (including the rare Fiordland crested penguin) and an array of birdlife.

Fronting the sparkling blue waters of Lake Te Anau, accommodation and amenities are plentiful. Come nightfall, the starlit sky will knock your socks off.

TE ANAU BIRD SANCTUARY See Fiordland birds that are difficult to spy in the wild. Join the guides at 10.30am for a tour and chance to feed the resident takahē which was rediscovered in Fiordland. Basic entry is free. Additional close-up encounters with endangered native birds cost from $10pp.

LAKE MANAPOURI

Southern Lakes Walks

Te Anau is basecamp for all Fiordland adventures. Well-known as the walking capital of the world, the Milford, Hollyford, Routeburn, Greenstone, Caples, Kepler and Dusky tracks are all nearby.

THE MILFORD TRACK Over four days and 53.5km, trekkers discover waterfall after waterfall, mountain-reflecting lakes and a level of green only nature knows how to create.

THE ROUTEBURN TRACK There is no phone reception along this 32km track. On any given day (there are three in total), you’ll be walking through clouds, staring into crystalline lakes or trailing, like ants, between enormous glacier-carved valleys.

THE KEPLER TRACK A four-day trail that spends most time above the tree line. Walk knife-like ridges while gazing at snowy peaks and faraway lakes.

HOLLYFORD TRACK One of the area’s most popular walks, this 56km track takes four to eight

days to complete, depending on whether you walk it one way or both ways, or take an air of jet-boat transfer. Make full use of an expert guide and private lodges or go it alone and stay in DOC huts.

HUMP RIDGE TRACK This 61km and three-day tramp negotiates rugged coastline with an elevation of almost 1000m. Navigate swing bridges and tackle the Grunt, a 12km section of steady climbing. All set to be officially opened as the 11th Great Walk in 2023.

SHORTER WALKS Shy on time? No problem. Tie up your shoelaces for spectacular day hikes such as the Luxmore Summit (full day), Key Summit and Lake Marian (both three hours return) – and several more.

MILFORD SOUND

ANAU

LAKE MANAPOURI

DOUBTFUL SOUND

FIORDLAND

Mitre Peak The great pointed mountain is the face of Fiordland. Instantly recognisable, it rises spectacularly to 1692m above Milford Sound.

Mitre Peak Cruises Spend a spectacular two-and-a-half hours

DOUBTFUL SOUND FIORDLAND

Cruise and Coach There is no direct road access to the secondlargest fiord in Fiordland National Park. You’ll need to organise a day or overnight cruise across Lake Manapōuri and then a coach trip over Wilmot Pass.

Guided Kayak Tours Explore the fiord while barely seeing another soul. No matter if you’re

new to kayaking or a total pro, tours are always informative and entertaining.

Stay Overnight There’s no better way to experience the serenity and isolation of the Doubtful Sound than by sleeping there. Spend a night at the Deep Cove Hostel or book two-day kayaking and camping trips as well as overnight cruises.

in one of the world’s most stunning environs. The captain will ensure you don’t miss a thing and you’ll get daringly close to an enormous waterfall.

Milford Sound Lodge Fiordland Outdoors Company now offer a

water taxi to Sandfly Point, so a day walk to Giant’s Gate waterfall on the Milford Track is now an option.

Sightseeing Flights Views from above, by either plane or helicopter are exemplary and memorable. Overnight Cruises Imagine waking up in the Milford Sound! Overnight cruises allow for just that, as well as dinner, breakfast and nature talks.

Underwater Observatory New Zealand’s only floating underwater observatory, available to those touring with Southern Discoveries, provides a fantastic way to see rare black coral.

Black Coral Black corals are usually deep-sea species, but in Fiordland an abundance grows at depths of only 10m. New Zealand’s Milford Sound/Piopiotahi marine reserve is New Zealand’s coral capital and one of the world’s most unique diving locations. Local company Descent

Dive offer a range of tours suitable even for first timers and you may even get to see sharks, stingrays, octopus, crayfish, nudibranchs and over 150 species of fish.

Couch Tours Comfortable

coaches depart Queenstown or Te Anau followed by a cruise on the water. This is a long day: 12.5 hours from Queenstown, seven hours from Te Anau.

Kayaking Milford Sounds

Paddle in paradise with and get up close to the cascading waterfalls and busy wildlife. Rosco’s Milford Kayaks have great local knowledge and their trips range between one to four hours.

LEFT: Milford Sound © RealNZ

TOP TIP: Pack a raincoat and insect repellent to keep off any potential rain and sandflies.

TOP TIP: DOC’s free Hall Arm Campsite is located in a beautiful forest beside the water. Access is by boat only.

Doubtful Sound © Rob Suisted

TE ANAU

LAKE MANAPOURI

Scenic Exploration Lake Manapōuri is described as one of the country’s prettiest. At 444m deep, it’s also New Zealand’s second deepest lake.

DOUBTFUL SOUND FIORDLAND

Kayak Glide across the lake’s glass-like water by kayak, stopping to explore 33 small islands, remote bays and sandy beaches.

Kepler Mountain View Alpacas Visit these cute and friendly alpacas with the stunning backdrop of Lake Manapouri for some great photos. If the weather turns a bit nippy, you can warm up in the Wild Wool Gallery.

Frasers Beach A great family beach where you can spend the day swimming, enjoying short walks, using the picnic area and paddling. Located right next to Manapōuri township.

Packrafting A hybrid of hiking and kayaking, packable rafts fold down into backpacks. Check out packrafting.com for a fully guided or self-guided Mangapōuri Expedition. Spread over three days between Te Anau and Mangapōuri, every night you’ll camp on a secluded beach.

ACHERON

MILFORD SOUND > see PAGE 24

MANAPOURI > see PAGE 25

Local Buzz

Ōamaru is an absolute creative hub. All year round we have Crafted, the Forrester Gallery and Art on Tyne, then every other year we have the Waitaki Arts Festival where our arts community comes out and celebrate what they do.

IMOGEN STOCKWELL CURATOR VISUAL ARTS AT FORRESTER GALLERY,

Did you ever

wonder?

NEW ZEALAND SPORTS HALL OF FAME Where our sporting history comes to life! Housed in the historic Dunedin Railway Station, it includes exhibits and displays on sporting champions who have been inducted from more than 30 sports, and their most memorable moments. Among the displays are rare Olympic medals, famous trophies and other intriguing items.

NATURE

Aramoana

Beach and The Mole At the mouth of Otago Harbour, you can watch albatross frolicking above Taiaroa Head, take a boardwalk stroll around the tidal edge and follow a track to a giant sandhill at the northern end of the beach.

Blackhead Beach One of Dunedin’s local beaches and a vast expanse of stone, sand, and turf, surfers will love this paradise and its several peaks with right and lefthanders.

Strath Taieri Surrounded by rugged ranges to the north and west of Otago Harbour, you can hike, cycle and fish for trout in this glacial valley and river plateau near Dunedin.

Dunedin Botanic Gardens This is New Zealand’s first botanic gardens and is magnificent, with mature trees, pretty flower gardens, lawns, various sections including a rhododendron dell and multiple paths leading to city views. Kakanui Sunflowers in February The sunflower fields in Kakanui, near Ōamaru, are ablaze with colour.

© New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame

DUNEDIN’S IMPRESSIVE BUILDINGS

• Dunedin Railway Station

Said to be New Zealand’s most photographed building.

• University of Otago Registry

With gothic good looks and iconic clock tower.

• The First Presbyterian Church With an impressive 54m spire.

• Forsyth Barr Stadium The world’s only permanently covered natural turf stadium.

• St Paul’s Cathedral A beautiful church made of milky Ōamaru stone.

• Bank of New Zealand

A commanding presence on Princes Street.

• Municipal Chambers

Designed in 1878.

FAMILY FUN

Fossils Ancient whale and dolphin fossils can be found at Milburn, next to the lookout over Lake Waihola.

Kātiki Point At the southern point of Moeraki Peninsula, find the historic Kātiki Point Lighthouse, Te Raka a Hineatea pa, and yellow-eyed penguins in their natural habitat.

Ōamaru Steampunk Playground

Located at Ōamaru Harbour, with a penny-farthing swing set, giant hamster wheel and flying fox; good luck coaxing the kids away from this mashup of Victorian style and futuristic art.

TOP SPOT

Ride a Penny-farthing Hire an antique bike that made its debut in the 1870s, and check out the Ōamaru Victorian Precinct, harbour and penguin colony in style.

The Lost Gypsy Caravan Local artist Blair Sommerville runs this off-the-wall extravaganza of curious contraptions in Papatōwai Village in The Catlins.

Beach Hopping Explore the beauty of coastlines, rivers, and lakes, take a dip at St Kilda or St Clair Beach in the Salt Water Pools if you like your water on the warmer side.

Waitaki is a gathering of geological curiosities steeped in folklore and haunting natural beauty. The elements that make the lower South Island one of the most memorable destinations for travellers are all in the Waitaki District –mountains, sparkling turquoise lakes and rivers, lush rolling farmland, unusual geological formations and native wildlife encounters. Waitaki Valley is a top destination for pinot noir, it’s also home to historic Takiroa Māori Rock Art, sheltered under a limestone bluff on SH 83.

Catalyst

LAKE ŌHAU

Waitaki Valley Wine Region

ŌMARAMA ŌAMARU MOERAKI

Vines were first planted here in 2001, making Waitaki the new kid on the viticulture block. All that limestone enriches the soil and produces a tasty pinot noir. Enjoy summer wine tasting at River-T Winery and the Ostler Wines Cellar Door year-round.

Vanished World Centre Learn about local geology as well as an array of long-gone creatures, including an ancient penguin that stood over four feet tall!

Lake Ōhau A beautiful lake for fishing, with a handful of holiday homes and very little development, it’s rarely visited by the masses. Discover bike trails, pebble beaches and dozens of walking paths. Lake Ōhau Village Enjoying an idyllic setting against snow-capped mountains and a royal blue lake, summer is ideal for water sports and camping, while winter revs up a busy ski season.

Ōhau Ski fields It’s not the largest ski field in Aotearoa, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in exceptional staff and stunning scenery – the views across Lake Ōhau are exceptional.

OTAGO PENINSULA DUNEDIN

Anatini Only 900m from Elephant Rocks and home to a natural limestone arch, fossilised remnants from the bottom of the ocean and baleen whale bones. Signposted as part of the Vanished World Trail.

Takiroa Māori Rock Art Hundreds of years ago, Māori travelled the length of Waitaki River, taking shelter in the limestone cliffs. The rock art found here depicts animals, birds and early European settlers. Located under a limestone bluff on SH 83.

DUNTROON LAWRENCE CLUTHA MILTON BALCLUTHA

CATLINS LAKE ŌHAU

Kurow Fifteen minutes from Duntroon and sandwiched between the braided Waitaki River and St Mary’s mountain range, it’s a popular stop on the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail.

Kurow Hill Walkway This steep climb to the top of Kurow Hill is more than worth it for the far-flung Hakataramea Valley views. Allow at least 30 minutes to the top, with plenty of stops!

Ōmarama Hot Tubs Sink into your private outdoor hot tub filled with fresh mountain water and gaze across the picturesque lake.

Waitaki River Popular for water sports, fishing, hiking and boating, this is the smallest of three man-made lakes of the Waitaki hydroelectric scheme/ Waitaki Dam. Thirty minutes from Ōmarama.

THE CATLINS

Sailor’s Cutting Make the most of this popular camping and fishing site. Fronting the shores of Lake Benmore, it’s especially popular in summer when droves of happy campers arrive for a holiday.

DUNTROON

Clay Cliffs Rising spectacularly behind Ahuriri River, these enormous pinnacles and ridges are impressive even from a distance. To get close is a 25-minute drive from Ōmarama, then an easy 10 to 15-minute walk.

High Country Salmon Farm Drop by to see how salmon is farmed, feed the fish and watch them jump to grab a bite, then taste delicious just-caught salmon. Located in Twizel approximately 1 hour 40 minutes from Hāwea.

MOERAKI

Ōtematata In low season, Ōtematata, a 15-minute drive from Ōmarama is small and sleepy, but the population booms in summer, when temperatures soar and nearby Lake Benmore offers swimming, camping and water sports.

The Wrinkly Rams Take your seat at the only merino sheep shearing show in the country. Afterwards, pop by the gift shop and café.

Alps 2 Ocean From the highest mountains, past great lakes and rivers to the ocean – this cycle trail is an absolute winner.

The Victorian Precinct The buildings of Ōamaru’s Victorian Precinct house traditional bookbinders, woodworkers and crafters; the general store sells rock confectionery, a vintage steam train chugs to the harbour. Consider joining a guided walking tour.

Architecture Beautiful buildings include the Forrester Gallery, National Bank, opera house, and courthouse, built from locally quarried limestone.

Craftworks Brewery The Tasting Room serves traditional Belgian style beers with artisan bread and cheese. Find it down Harbour Street, within the heart of the Victorian Precinct. Steampunk HQ An experience like no other, Steampunk HQ is an ode to the futuristic subgenre, as a fusion of sci-fi, steam and dystopian

ŌMARAMA ŌAMARU MOERAKI

19th century England. Explore an assortment of inventions and unique contraptions and enquire about the annual festival.

Ōamaru Blue Penguin Colony

DUNTROON LAWRENCE CLUTHA MILTON BALCLUTHA

New Zealand owned shop is packed with sweetness.

Ōamaru Farmers’ Market

Every Sunday next to Friendly Bay and the Historic Precinct, year round from 9.30am-1pm.

LAKE ŌHAU OTAGO PENINSULA DUNEDIN

Ōamaru Public Garden Open since 1876, this is one of the oldest public gardens in New Zealand. In keeping with Ōamaru’s Victorian flare there are glasshouses, ponds and rose gardens.

The Natural Dairy Tour this small, family-run dairy farm. Visit the milking shed, meet the cows and taste fresh milk. Tours run daily at 10am and 1.30pm

Cape Wanbrow Walks Ranging from thirty minutes to a full five hours, the Cape Wanbrow walking track traces sparkling coastline, offering something for everyone,

including walkers, cyclists and our furry canine friends, too.

The Criterion Hotel This flagship building in the Victorian Precinct has been through major enhancements; the bar space glows with William Morris wallpaper and the mouthwatering share plates are too good to miss.

MORE...

> Walk to Ōamaru Lookout

> Take Penny Farthing Lessons

> Visit Totara Estate and Clark’s Mill

> Enjoy Bushy Beach Walk

> Visit Janet Frame House

> Go for a walk on 4s Beach

> Free Kakanui’s sunflowers

Come dusk, observe them as they waddle up the beach to their nests.

Whitestone City Where history lessons jump off the page and straight into real life, kitted out like an old colonial town. Dress up in Victorian attire and ride a pennyfarthing carousel.

THE CATLINS

Whitestone Cheese Both famous and award-winning, the factory tour and cheese tasting is a must. Sit in the store-cum-café and gorge on cheese platters and wine.

Rainbow Confectionery

Factory Shop

The facade alone will compel you to go inside! This

Steampunk

Whitestone City, Ōamaru

OTAGO PENINSULA DUNEDIN

MOERAKI BOULDERS Visit or stay in Moeraki, a small coastal fishing village and home to the famous Moeraki Boulders. A series of huge spherical stones (some reaching two metres high) have assembled on the beach like a giant set of marbles.

MOERAKI LAWRENCE CLUTHA MILTON BALCLUTHA

KĀTIKI POINT LIGHTHOUSE

Eight minutes from Moeraki, this historic lighthouse that was built in 1878 and acts as an important breeding site for yellow-eyed penguins.

THE CATLINS

PUKETAPU OR SACRED HILL

PYRAMIDS AT ŌKIA RESERVE These two cone-shaped features are made from geometric basalt rock. They’re found at the eastern end of Otago Peninsula, close to Victory Beach. Check out the curious little cave at the seaward side of Little Pyramid.

THE ROYAL ALBATROSS CENTRE Take the opportunity to see the world’s only mainland breeding colony of royal albatross and watch as adult birds return from sea to feed their chicks. Book a tour here to observe kokorā (little blue penguin) returning to the beach at sunset from a viewing platform and interactive walkway.

SHAG POINT/MATAKAEA

RESERVE Once used by early moa hunters, this rocky headland is the site of burial grounds, fossilised reptiles and sacred Māori sites. New Zealand fur seals now bask here, with a cliff-top viewing area to observe their exploits. Ten minutes from Moeraki.

Fifteen minutes from Moeraki in the town of Palmerston, take a scenic walk to the town’s main landmark, drenched in outstanding panoramic views.

MACRAES Explore the old Gold Point Stamp Battery and look out over the Frasers Open Pit, an enormous open cast mine. A 45-minute drive from Moeraki but well worth the detour.

PENGUINS Drop into Penguin Place or, as dusk draws in, get some close-up photos of up to 200 Little Blue penguins returning from sea on one of the expert led Guided Evening Penguin Viewing Tours.

ŌMARAMA ŌAMARU MOERAKI

MORE...

> Marvel at truly unusual rock formations at the Rock and Pillar Conservation Area > Explore Ōrokonui Ecosanctuary’s native fauna > Visit Sandfly Bay to see towering sand dunes and fur seals > Victory Beach to see fur seals and more yellow-eyed penguins

LAKE ŌHAU OTAGO PENINSULA DUNEDIN

DUNTROON LAWRENCE CLUTHA

© The Royal Albatross Centre, Otago Peninsula

MILTON

BALCLUTHA

THE CATLINS

MOERAKI

OTAGO PENINSULA DUNEDIN

LAWRENCE CLUTHA MILTON BALCLUTHA

Dunedin Public Art Gallery

An absolutely stunning space, in the Octagon. Architecturally beautiful; exhibitions changing regularly. Breweries and Distilleries

didn’t even know you were curious about.

THE CATLINS

Tour the iconic Speight’s Brewery or visit the taprooms of Emerson’s, Steamer Basin and Arc Brewery. For those more spirit minded, head to No.8 Distillery for their tour.

Dunedin Street Art With over 100 works in the city, download the Street Art app and get on the hunt. Otago Museum A world-class collection of exhibits here. Move between interactive science experiments to a planetarium and Animal Attic. There are seven free galleries and a few incur a fee.

Toitū Otago Settlers Museum

How did a Scottish community come to thrive in Otago? This museum covers everything related to the early years and growth of the city.

Museum of Natural Mystery

This small, quirky museum is crammed full of incredible artefacts from the natural world. From artworks, bones, fossils, skulls and entire skeletons, you’ll find things you

Larnach Castle New Zealand’s only castle overlooking Otago Peninsula, visitors can explore the tower, ballroom, a wealth of antique furnishings and the grounds are a Garden of International Significance. Otago Harbour Cycleway For a breezy ride, hire e-bikes and take the cycle ferry from Port Chalmers to Portobello, stopping off for coffee and lunch along on the way.

Glenfalloch Woodland Gardens This Garden of National Significance has panoramic harbour views, mature trees and plenty of flowers.

Quarantine Island/Kamau

Taurua Journey across the water to this natural wonderland, rich in history. It was a place for southern Māori people to collect food and early European settlers to stay while their ships were in quarantine.

MORE Dunedin Must Do’s...

Dunedin Railway Station

Dunedin Botanic Garden

Harbour Cruises

> Globe Theatre > Regent Theatre

> Chinese Garden

> Writers’ Walk

> World’s steepest street – Baldwin Street

> Olveston Historic House

> OCHO Chocolate Factory

> Dining - the Octagon, Lower Stuart Street Precinct and St Clair Esplanade.

> Port Chalmers Regional Maritime Museum

The Octagon This eightsided plaza occupies the very heart of Dunedin. From this focal point, the city disperses outward and the main street cuts straight through the middle.

> Dunedin Gasworks Museum

> Otago Farmers’ Market at Dunedin Railway Station, Saturday

> Ōrokonui Ecosanctuary

> Tunnel Beach

> Organ Pipes Walk

> Sinclair Wetlands

> St Clair Beach > Karitāne Beach, Waikouaiti > Doctors Point

> Mosgiel a ‘Motorhome-Friendly Town’

Octagon, Dunedin

Chinese Gardens, Dunedin

DunedinNZ

Milarky, street art in Dunedin © DunedinNZ

Clutha Gold Trail This is a cylce trail starting from the historic township of Lawrence and weaving 73km to Lake Roxburgh. Two days of nature, history and adventure.

Taste of Clutha Trail Taste the entire Clutha District, from decadent chocolate shops to local honey and hazelnut orchards. It’s all explorable – and edible! For a detailed map, visit cluthanz.com.

CATLINS

Blue Mountains A rugged mountain range rising 1019m out of the ground with numerous scenic walks. Birdwatchers take note, the southern end is home to striking rare mohua.

Tuapeka Punt Great wee punt at Tuapeka Mouth that’s powered solely by the flow of the Clutha River. Free but dependent on river level – check their Facebook page. Lake Mahinerangi A favourite for perch and brown trout fishing, the reservoir is remote and great for getting off the grid. Head up from Waipori Falls or use the back roads Lawrence township.

Chrystalls Beach An astonishing beach with a long stretch of golden sand and a large rock formation, known as Cook’s Head Rock. You may even spot sea lions.

MILTON BALCLUTHA

CATLINS

NUGGET POINT

LIGHTHOUSE Rocks eroded by waves resemble gold nuggets and can be seen from the lighthouse, 76m above sea level.

WILDLIFE Fur seals, dolphins and penguins frequent Nugget Point and between December and February elephant seals, too.

TUMA TOKA CURIOSCAPE

For hands-on fun, this immersive indoor centre tells the story of how Curio Bay came to be.

CURIO BAY Enjoy a swim or surf, then walk to the Petrified Forest where fossilised trees are embedded in coastal bedrock.

MCLEAN FALLS

waterfall set on the Tautuku River and part of Catlins Conservation Park, are often described as the most spectacular in the Southland region. A 40-minute return walk.

OWAKA A large stainless steel waka sculpture is a standout in the Catlins’ main town. Visiting the local museum is ‘like walking through a 3D storybook’ covering Māori settlements, shipwrecks and pioneer settlers.

MORE...

The 22-metre

MOERAKI LAWRENCE

> Cannibal Bay and Surat Bay

Jack’s Blowhole

The Lost Gypsy

OTAGO PENINSULA DUNEDIN

Southland Waipapa Point

Lighthouse > Purakaunui Bay

Purakaunui Falls

Southland Niagara Falls

Catlins Day Tours > Bat Walk

Roaring Bay

Cathedral Caves

Lake Wilkie > Teapot Land

Florence Hill Lookout

Tunnel Hill

CLUTHA

KAKA POINT A popular coastal village that thrives over summer. Swim on the surf-patrolled beach, picnic beside the sea, surf decent waves and embark on the looped Kaka Beach Bush Walk.

MILTON

BALCLUTHA

Balclutha Bridge Clutha River cuts a wide path through Balclutha but is sewn back together by the mighty arches of Balclutha Bridge. Particularly fetching at sunset; you can walk it or drive it.

THE CATLINS

and bike riders. Take in an array of flora and fauna including an amazing display of rhododendrons.

Blair Athol Walkway Nudging the Clutha River, this 90-minute return track is suitable for walkers

Naish Park The starting point for the Blair Athol Walkway but also a highlight itself. Mosey around the tranquil duck pond and aviary and recently built dog park. A junior bike park is also underway.

Tuapeka Goldfields Museum Start your Lawrence history lesson at this excellent museum, in the Information Centre.

Gabriel’s Gully Historic Reserve The site of New Zealand’s first major gold rush and where remnants of machinery remain today.

CLUTHA MILTON BALCLUTHA

Weatherstons Brewery and Daffodils Come spring, the place is awash with daffodils. Various information plaques detail the area’s history which also includes a waterfall, woodlands garden, brewery ruins and rhododendron forest.

Lawrence Chinese Camp During the 19th century Otago gold rush, Lawrence saw an influx of Chinese miners. A handful of their dwellings have been remodelled; further restoration is underway

THE CATLINS

SOD COTTAGE Sitting on the Milton Highway and built in the 1860s from mud and straw, this dinky little abode provided a basic stopover for gold miners. Fully restored in 1970, it’s fully furnished, too.

DUNEDIN LAWRENCE CLUTHA MILTON BALCLUTHA THE CATLINS

LAKE WAIHOLA The larger of the two neighbouring lakes and New Zealand’s most inland tidal lake. Come for the water sports: a medley of fishing, boating, kayaking, rowing and water skiing.

MILBURN WHALE AND DOLPHIN FOSSILS LOOKOUT 30-millionyear-old whale and dolphin fossils were found next to the lookout over Lake Waihola. Displays explain the find.

TOKOMAIRIRO PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH Fashioned with all the spires and aesthetics of a European Presbyterian church, this is one of Clutha’s prominent landmarks.

SINCLAIR WETLANDS Internationally renowned wetlands on Milton’s doorstep, it’s flush with water-loving birds and an idyllic spot for walks, birdwatching and row boats.

TOP TIP: Taieri Mouth feeds into Lake Waihola via the Taieri River. The mouth itself boasts a white-sand beach, safe swimming, surfing and the Taieri Mouth Beach Holiday Camp.

A haven in the city

The

VALLEY HOLIDAY

OCEAN BEACH HOTEL

OTAGO

Discover

CENTRAL OTAGO SOUTHLAND

This place is a champion of timeless pleasures such as slurping on succulent stone fruit and taking sun-drenched bike rides. This is a region of wild natural beauty and one that the locals have embraced, not tamed.

Local Buzz

A walk around Blue Lake at St Bathans followed by a drink at the Vulcan Hotel is a popular escape on a sunny day. Indoor curling all year at Naseby and Alexandra, April to October, is fun for family and friends.

MELANIE EADE

ARTIST & OWNER OF EADE GALLERY IN CLYDE

Did you ever

wonder?

BOASTING SOME OF NEW ZEALAND’S MOST DIVERSE SCENERY, CENTRAL OTAGO HAS MOUNTAIN RANGES, WILD RIVERS, DRAMATIC GORGES, SHIMMERING LAKES AND CHARMING TOWNS.

SEASONS

The winters are crisp and cold while the summers are sizzling hot.

In spring, it bursts into life with flowering blossom trees; in autumn the leaves turn red, gold and copper-coloured.

This region’s heartland has everchanging mountainous, dry rocky landscapes, productive farmland,

spectacular river gorges, old stone and mud-brick dwellings and preserved gold-mining settlements.

Intriguing old towns seeped in history are set in a fascinating landscape of rust-coloured hills, fertile valleys, and dramatic gorges carved by the Clutha and Kawarau rivers.

Hyde, Otago Central Rail Trail © Adobe Stock

RIGHT: Misha’s Vineyard Tasting Room, Cromwell © Central Otago Tourism

Autumn in Bannockburn Inlet © Adobe Stock

TOP TASTES

ON THE TRAIL

The Otago Central Rail Trail is New Zealand’s original Great Ride, journeying into pockets of the region not accessible by road. The Rail Trail extends 152km along the former railway route between Middlemarch and Clyde. Its wide gravel path has a gentle 1:50 gradient, making it ideal for walkers, cyclists and horse riders. If you want to cycle the entire trail, it generally takes four days to complete comfortably.

That’s approximately four hours of riding per day, with plenty of reasons to make regular stops and accommodation options along the way. However, the trail is divided into sections as short as 4km each, so you can choose whether you want to cycle just one section, or the whole trail.

There are many opportunities to meet the pioneer-spirited locals and to take detours and side trips to places such as dams, goldmining relics, the country’s only international curling rink to try your hand at the ancient ice sport, and much more.

Travelling the Rail Trail also offers you the chance to immerse yourself in the history and romance of the railway and the gold rush. Whatever your interest, the trail provides the solitude to reflect amid the transforming light of expansive skies and vast landscapes.

Central

Otago produces some of the best pinot noir in the world and there are impressive wineries around Cromwell and nearby at Bannockburn and Lowburn.

Visit one of the many cellar doors for a tasting. Many wineries also offer excellent dining experiences with wine matches. The intense flavours of Central Otago apricots and cherries are so good it’s worth timing your visit for when this bounty is in season. Stop at a pick-your-own orchard, buy at a roadside stall or enjoy a tasting at one of the boutique fruit juice producers.

CHARMING TOWNS

ALEXANDRA With hills, valleys and old gold digging and dredge sites like the Earnscleugh Tailings to explore, this is a town to spend time in. In summer, fill up on apricots, peaches, cherries and apples; in winter, ice skate on Manorburn Dam.

CLYDE An historic township beside the mighty Clutha River, Clyde was once a booming gold rush site; there’s a sweet vintage vibe here, with old gardens, stone walls and heritage buildings.

CROMWELL The construction of Clyde Dam involved the flooding of Cromwell’s historic centre, but a few buildings were saved to form the Heritage Precinct, on the banks of Lake Dunstan, with art galleries, specialist shops and a summer Sunday market. Lake

Dunstan is also a pleasant spot for a swim.

NASEBY Cradled in forest and speckled with charming stone buildings, Naseby has lots of appeal. Come winter, a lively ice-skating scene erupts on Centennial Pond.

RANFURLY Following a 1930s fire, Ranfurly was rebuilt with art deco flare. A tour of the town absorbs much of this aesthetic; step beyond the façades to find art galleries and other treats.

ROXBURGH Between Alexander and Milton in the Teviot Valley is Roxburgh, with a thriving summer fruit industry and adventurous options including trekking scenic mountain trails and kayaking on Lake Roxburgh.

Cyclists at a café in Alexandra © Central Otago Tourism

Otago

Heritage Precinct In 1992 the construction of Clyde Dam caused mass flooding of Cromwell. Some historic buildings were saved and rebuilt as the Heritage Precinct. Now sitting handsomely on the banks of Lake Dunstan, it’s packed with cafés, art galleries and specialist shops.

Lake Dunstan Jut above the Clyde dam, this large man-made lake beckons swimmers, water skiers and boaties.

The Harvest Hotel Throw open your French doors every morning

to unveil breath-taking mountain, vineyard and rural views. Cosy up in their hunting lodge style restaurant packed with historic memorabilia.

The Stoaker Room Talented chefs cook and prepare your food in pinot noir barrels that are made from French oak and have been converted into cooking devices. The result is a barbecue-meets-smoker taste sensation.

Highlands Motorsport Park Absolutely packed full with adrenalin pumping go-karting and muscle car experiences, a sculpture

park and motorsport museum with a VR ‘Young Guns’ room. Then when you’ve gotta go, their novel loo with a view is essential to visit.

Lake Dunstan Cycle Trail

This newly opened 55km bike ride connects Cromwell to Clyde by tracing the edges of Cromwell Gorge and straddling its sheer cliffside by means of ingenious bridges ‘clipped’ into the rock. Highlights include an 85km-long suspension bridge, stunning lake views and Coffee Afloat, a surprising floating coffee shop.

Giant Fruit Sculpture Because this region is nicknamed the Fruit Bowl of the South, on the outskirts of Cromwell there is a giant fruit sculpture, comprising an apple, pear, nectarine and apricot.

Suncrest Orchard Try Central Otago’s famously juicy fruit. Mrs Jones’ Fruit Stall is open daily from

8.30am until 5.30pm. You can lick on a fresh fruit ice cream in the adjoining English-style garden or pucker up for some pinot port at the orchard’s tasting room.

Goldfields Mining Centre Gold mining comes spectacularly back to life with a working stamper battery (once used to crush gold-bearing ore) operating sluice machines, a replica Chinese village and gold panning.

Cloudy Bay Cellar Door Is there any better way to spend an afternoon than with wine, cheese and knockout scenery? Move between indoor and outdoor tasting spaces, laze by the fireplace or swing from an egg chair.

The Bannockburn Sluicings

Scenic Reserve

The gold-mining era came and went, leaving a land scarred by excavation. Discover a barren yet fascinating landscape on

TOP TIP: From October through to Easter, a lively Sunday market takes place at the Cromwell Heritage Precinct between 9am and 1pm.

this 3.5km looped walk and Grade 3 mountain biking trail.

Misha’s Vineyard Tasting Room The region is bountiful with wineries but if you are short on time then a trip to Misha’s Vineyard is a

CROMWELL

A Tale of Two Bridges You’ll enter town by crossing the new bridge, built in 1958, but it’s well worth pulling over for a closer look at the original 1882 suspension bridge.

Otago Central Rail Trail Most cyclists start or finish the famous Central Otago Rail Trail from this small, hospitable township.

CLYDE NASEBY RANFURLY

Clutha River Cruises Enjoy a compelling mix of history and scenery while cruising Clutha River to the remotest reaches of Roxburgh Gorge. For livelier trips, jet boat tours are also available, with the 6pm Twilight Heritage Tour a popular option.

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Sunderland Street Eyes are drawn to the old mason buildings and neat stone houses on Sunderland Street. Cloaked in summer blooms, or in winter, plumes of smoke billowing from brick chimneys.

ALEXANDRA ST BATHANS

Historic Buildings Authentic down to their very last beam, particularly impressive are the old bank (now a café), Dunstan House Hotel which is over 120 years old and Olivers Restaurant, the latter being the premises for the Victoria Store Brewery, too.

Clyde Dam New Zealand’s third largest hydroelectric dam. It’s a monstrosity, but in that handsomely-ugly manner that most dams are. Worth a look to appreciate its scale and ingenuity.

Eade Gallery Take an exquisite piece of the South Island home. This beautiful, polished gallery showcases local artwork,

one of the southernmost vineyards with a tasting room open seven days a week.

Alexandra Blossom Festival Come spring, the town is awash with fragrant cherry blossom and an annual three-day festival in September celebrates this occurrence. The street parade is a highlight.

Ice Skating IceinLine is the southern hemisphere’s largest outdoor ice-skating rink – Olympic sized no less.

sculpture pieces and irresistible jewellery.

Nom Nom Gelato Delicious artisan ice cream made in-house. Flavours such as Bubbley Lubbley and Apricot Chip and Vanilla should get your tongue intrigued. Open from August to May.

Monte Christo Raspberry Café A fun, fresh and fabulous experience for the entire family, discover lush gardens, a maze, mini-golf, pick-your-own raspberries, fresh ice cream and fruity desserts.

ABOVE: Historic cottage, Clyde © Tourism New Zealand

LEFT BELOW: Legacy Vineyard, Alexandra © Central Otago Tourism

FAR LEFT: © Highlands, Cromwell

including schist huts: small, den-like shelters that miners built into the rock face.

Central Otago Beer Festival

Held in high summer, when the weather’s warm but the beer’s cold. Good ale, wine, food and live music all come together for one day at Pioneer Park. 2022 dates TBC –keep an eye on craftbeerfest.co.nz.

Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery

More Wine Tasting Central Otago wine region makes some of the world’s best pinot noir. Prominent wine producers include Shaky Bridge, Judge Rock, Grey Ridge and Black Ridge. The latter is

Mountain Clock Admire views across Alexandra from the enormous clock on the hill that has served the town for over fifty years.

Roxburgh Gorge Trail This is an isolated one-day bike ride littered with surprises. Covering 34km along the Clutha Mata-au River, remnants from the gold-rush era abound,

For an insight into the region’s past, pop your head inside here and fill it with exhibits detailing bygone gold mining and local agriculture. Free to visit.

The Millennium Track This dual walking and cycling trail, known to the locals as The River Walk, skirts the banks of the Clutha River for 12km between Alexandra Bridge and the Clyde Bridge.

Alexandra Golf Club Tee off at an award-winning course. Eighteenhole green fees start from $35pp, or you can play half for $20. Nice and flat, too – perfect for beginners.

NASEBY RANFURLY

Weaver Estate Vineyard Cottages For all of us who eat, sleep and breathe good wine, Weaver Estate Vineyard Cottages are situated on its namesake working vineyard. Nod off mere metres from the vines.

ALEXANDRA ST BATHANS

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Otago Central Rail Trail New Zealand’s original Great Ride. By encompassing all that is warm and welcoming about Central Otago, this former railway track connects Middlemarch to Clyde over 152km and one to five days. Completed in either direction.

Ferris Road Brewery Once you’ve completed an Otago cycling trail, why not celebrate with a ‘Trail Ale’ from this rustic brewery and tap room. Open Thursday to Sunday.

Jolendale Park Six hectares of tree and shrub species in a dry rock land setting, this parkland (on top of Alexandra’s Bridge Hill) is a yearround kaleidoscope of colour.

Roxburgh Orchards This town is famous for its fruit orchards. Stock up on supplies at the fruit stalls at Johnson’s Cottage Orchard, Fairview Orchard and Hobbs Family Orchard, to name a few.

Shingles Creek Collectables

Pop in to hunt out some treasures in the form of vintage and rustic style collectables.

TOP TIP: Part of IceinLine, learn the art of curling at the new Alexandra Indoor Curling Rink. A fantastic new addition to the complex.

CROMWELL

CLYDE

TOP TIP: For a comprehensive Central Otago wine map, visit centralotagowine.co.nz

NASEBY RANFURLY

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OPHIR POST OFFICE

ALEXANDRA ST BATHANS

Frozen in time since its 1886 gold rush heyday, this post shop is one of a number of historic buildings on the street. It’s worth sending a letter because they’ll use the original rubber stamp postmark.

DANIEL O’CONNELL SUSPENSION BRIDGE Take the sedate road to Ophir from Alexandra and you’ll come across this 65m-long suspension stone bridge. Built in 1880, it is a Category 1 historic place and maintains all its original good looks.

Judge Rock, Alexandra © Central Otago Tourism

ALEXANDRA

CLYDE NASEBY RANFURLY

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ST BATHANS

Haunted Hotel Experience the allegedly haunted Vulcan Hotel, a striking stone building plucked from the past, which is home to the spirit of a prostitute murdered here over a century ago. Jeepers! This is just one of many super interesting historic buildings on St Bathans’ main street to investigate.

The Blue Lake When the sun reflects off surrounding white cliffs, the water is turned an enticing blue. Walking right around the lake

takes about an hour and a half and rewards with stunning views. Pack your togs; in summer there’s no better place to be.

Hayes Engineering Works

Twenty minutes south of St Bathans and a slight detour en route to Naseby. Established in 1895 by Ernest Hayes, this factory has manufactured some seriously innovative farming equipment. Also a popular rest stop on the Otago Central Rail Trail.

Alexandra

Will Nelson

The Blue Lake, St Bathans

Historical post office in Ophir

Central Otago Tourism

Vulcan Hotel, St Bathans

Queenstown

ALEXANDRA

CLYDE NASEBY RANFURLY

Centennial Milk Bar The striking retro facade screams of yesteryear and attracts most of the attention, but step inside and you’ll find an attractive art gallery.

ALEXANDRA ST BATHANS

NASEBY RANFURLY

NASEBY NIGHT Sky Tours

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Meet ‘n’ Greet a Husky Visit the kennels and workshop where harnesses and sleds are built at the Real Dog Company. The team (especially the furry members) are always gagging to meet new visitors. Sled rides do run but not all of the time – check in advance.

Off the Rails Cycle Tours

From day tripper to a 5-day tour, these biking adventures are fully customisable to make them achievable and fun!

Wedderburn Shed In Wedderburn, 20km west of Ranfurly, visit the shed that

inspired Grahame Sydney to paint ‘July on the Māniototo’.

Art Deco Walk Following a series of 1930s fires, Ranfurly was rebuilt with all the art deco flare of the era. The town’s art deco walk absorbs much of this grand aesthetic.

Waipīata Also near Ranfurly and on the Otago Central Rail Trail, this photogenic dot of a town is drenched in history. It’s particularly beautiful in autumn but visit any time of year to wander the streets and check out the fascinating cemetery.

The Curiosity Shoppe An aptly named store, this fascinating emporium is jostling with antiques, collectables, giftware – and much more besides.

THE NASEBY ICE RINK, LUGE & SNOWPARK In midwinter (July and August) try skating on the outdoor ice rink, curling, hurtling down the ice luge (the southern hemisphere’s only outdoor ice luge and sledge 800m through the forest) or simply play in the snow. All equipment is available for hire.

Learn the fundamentals of astrology, focusing on the moon and key constellations, using both the naked eye and telescopes. Generally held at Naseby Holiday Park.

OPHIR

ST BATHANS

CURLING NASEBY is the curling capital of New Zealand. If you’d like to give it a go yourself, head down to the Indoor Curling Rink.

HOFFMANS DAM An idyllic watering hole in Naseby Forest, perfect for swimming or walking and cycling around the water’s edge.

NASEBY FOREST Discover a 52km network of mountain biking trails ranging from Grades 1-5, as well as an extensive scribble of walking tracks and Hoffmans Dam.

DANSEYS PASS High on the back road between Naseby and Ranfurly, in the heart of Central Otago, is an historic hotel with restaurant, roaring fire and lodge accommodation.

STONE BUILDINGS There are two lovely old pubs, a striking hotel and a collection of colonial shops and amenities with old-world façades.

Naseby town centre • ABOVE: Curling Naseby

Statue of John Turnbull Thomson, Ranfurly

Central Otago

OFF TRAIL TOURS

WEDDERBURN COTTAGES

Tussock Lodge

While the towns provide the Bluff oysters and cheese rolls, the natural landscape provides the drama. Discover a fascinating coastline, complete with photogenic wildlife, phenomenal rock formations and waterfalls, and pockets rich in culture and history.

Local Buzz

A day out on the Foveaux Strait will get your heart pumping! More famous for its blue cod, paua, crays and Bluff oysters, the Strait is also home to some spectacular marine mammals, pelagic sea birds and migratory sharks, such as Great Whites.

NIKKI LADD BLUFF RESIDENT & EMPLOYEE AT SHARK

SouthlandSecret gems in

FAMOUS FOR SPECTACULAR AND DIVERSE LANDSCAPES, SOUTHLAND AND STEWART ISLAND ARE ALL ABOUT ADVENTURE AND UNIQUE EXPERIENCES. AND WHEREVER YOU GO, YOU’LL FEEL WELCOMED.

Gore

hosts the New Zealand Gold Guitar Awards every June. This is also one of the best trout fishing areas, epitomised by the giant fish statue which greets you as you drive into town. Other drawcards are the Eastern Southland Art Gallery, the Mataura Museum, based in an 1880s settlers cottage and the Hokonui Moonshine Museum which may be undergoing renovations.

Dolamore Park is 14km from Gore and is one of its jewels. Nestled in the Hokonui Hills, it has overnight camping facilities and multiple walking tracks through beautiful native bush.

Mandeville, 17km from Gore, is home to the Croydon Aviation Heritage Centre, which features mostly aircraft from the golden years of flying in the 1920s and 1930s.

ARTS, CULTURE & HISTORY

ANDERSEN PARK On the outskirts of Invercargill, this is a grand old 1925 homestead with manicured gardens and mature trees.

INVERCARGILL STREET ART From sculptures to murals, artistic flair is alive and kicking. Keep an eye out for ‘Blade of Grass,’ a steel kinetic sculpture and the bronze statue of the native New Zealand weka bird on Esk Street.

• Clifden Caves When you leave Tūātapere heading for Te Anau, you’ll find this geological marvel on SH 99. It’s a labyrinth of interesting limestone cave systems with large stalactites features and glow-worms. It takes roughly 1.5-2 hours to travel through the entire cave system; you’ll need to rug up and carry the right equipment to get the most out of the experience.

RAKIURA MUSEUM

This gem highlights the intrepid nature of life on Stewart Island.

THE WATER TOWER An architectural treasure that is still in working order, providing a back-up role for the city’s water supply.

RIVERTON ARTS CENTRE Local artists and craftspeople exhibit here and it’s the perfect spot for gift and souvenir shopping.

TE HIKOI SOUTHERN JOURNEY

MUSEUM A spectacularly good museum, in Riverton, providing intriguing insight into the region’s past.

ABOVE: Te Hikoi Museum, Southland

© Great South

LEFT: Iona Island © Tourism NZ

FAR LEFT: Croydon Aviation Heritage Centre

© Gore District Council

LEFT INSET: Niagara Falls Café

© Great South

WALKS & HIKES

LAKE HAUROKO LOOKOUT TRACK This four-hour return walk climbs from the edge of remote Lake Hauroko in Fiordland National Park to a lookout with views across to Foveaux Strait in the south and Fiordland’s Takitimu, Princess and Kaherekoau mountains. Top tip: pack insect repellent; the sandflies are vicious here!

LAKE2LAKE Explore the lakeside surrounds of Te Anau and Manapōuri on this scenic 28km trail, designed for cycling as well as walking.

SANDY POINT DOMAIN Less than 10km from Invercargill heading west, this sandy and shingle peninsula is bound by the Oreti River and Foveaux Strait. Pack a picnic, let the kids play, and make the most of the expansive space which encourages walking, biking and running.

• Monkey Island Te Puka o Tākitimu is one of those best-kept-secrets. This long, uncrowded beach is at the eastern end of Te Waewae and is perfect for riding horses, surfing and picnicking. Explore rock pools, watch the sunset, and make unforgettable memories with your loved ones. A 20-minute drive from Riverton.

• Lake Manapōuri Often described as ‘The loveliest of all lakes,’ Lake Manapōuri is located in Fiordland National Park. Its cluster of 33 small islands each play their part in enriching the beauty of the area. The second deepest lake in New Zealand, it has a giant hydropower station that you can see through prearranged tours. Explore this awe-inspiring area by sea kayak or cruise boat.

• Longwood Forest Conservation Area This is a fascinating spot steeped in rich history and culture. The Longwood Ranges were once a major centre for gold mining; today you can stay in the historic Martin’s Hut. Trampers will love the amazing hikes through the forest. Located 45km west of Invercargill.

GORE TUATAPERE STEWART ISLAND

INVERCARGILL RIVERTON

BLUFF

Tussock Country Music Festival For country musicians and fans of every ilk. From King’s Birthday weekend for nine days, over 700 global competitors turn up for the New Zealand Country Music Capital of Gore.

Freeze Ya Bits Off Busking A key event in the Tussock Country Music Festival, buskers compete to win a $3000 grand prize. With mulled wine and food, the atmosphere is electric. Bannerman Park Sealed pathways lead you through the extensive plantings of rhododendrons, conifers, native ferns, daffodils, peonies, daylilies, willows, oaks and silver birches are

intertwined with streams, ponds and a deer park.

Trout Fishing Gore is regarded as the world’s Brown Trout Fishing Capital and with almost 150km of accessible water, Mataura River is considered the holy grail for dry fly angling.

Croydon Aviation Heritage Centre Located just outside of town, this museum is crammed with New Zealand’s earliest aircraft; book a scenic flight aboard a vintage bi-plane.

Hokonui Moonshine Museum

A trip to the Illicit Past... Gore’s colourful history of illicit whisky distilling and bootlegging is brought to life at the Hokonui Moonshine

Museum and boutique moonshine distillery.

Hokonui Pioneer Village and Museum Tap into Gore’s extensive agricultural history by visiting this replica pioneer village. Incorporating a church, old bank, traditional cottage, school and blacksmith as well as vintage tractors and the adjoining Vintage Car Club Motor Museum.

St James Theatre Built in 1936, the theatre is a perfectly preserved piece of art deco. Don’t miss the theatre’s retro 80s-style snack bar, another nostalgic blast from the past.

Gore Public Gardens Roam around these gorgeous gardens,

New Zealand Sausage Capital

If you love a snag, the nearby town of Tuatapere is a must. As well as a world-famous banger, there’s a decent logging museum, and sitting on the edge of Fiordland, you’re always on the cusp of an adventure. Wildly beautiful Bluecliffs Beach sits just out of town.

Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track This 61km, three-day loop track crosses dramatic limestone landforms with panoramic views across the ocean and Stewart Island.

making full use of the picnic tables and park benches before meandering around the rose garden, aviaries and year-round winter garden.

Balfour Stop on the way between Gore and Lumsden for a snoop around this classic little town with a tavern, historic sites and lovely old churches.

Eastern Southland Art Gallery Nicknamed the ‘Goreggenheim’ and housed inside the 1909 library building, the gallery’s exterior is as striking as the exhibits within, including a dazzling collection of contemporary artworks. Admission is free.

Clifden Only an eight-minute drive from Tuatapere, cross the historic Clifden Suspension Bridge, built in 1898/99, it was the longest suspension bridge in New Zealand. Fit types can enter the famous limestone cave system, draped in stalactites and glowworms. Allow at least 90 minutes to explore, climbing several fixed ladders and crawling through tunnels. Subject to flash flooding. DO NOT enter during or after rain, or if rain is forecast.

Eastern

Tuatapere Hump Ridge Track © Southland Tourism

GORE TUATAPERE STEWART ISLAND

Riverton Arts Centre Riverton is the main centre of Western Southland and boasts artists of every genre. Pop into the Arts Centre and come away with a unique piece. Thirty-five minutes from Invercargill, open seasonally –check in advance.

Colac Bay The waves here appease every level of surfer while the northern end is a haven for swimmers. A 10-minute drive from Riverton or 45 minutes from Invercargill.

INVERCARGILL RIVERTON

Mores Scenic Reserve Home to several short walks that makes the most of the countryside and surrounding coastal views. The easy 20-minute return Kings Track follows a bush route used by early settlers.

Safe Swimming Beaches Both Taramea Bay and Mitchells Bay are located in Riverton, offering curves of soft sand and safe family swimming.

BLUFF

Dolphin Spotting When travelling the western coastline of Southland, keep an eye out for dolphins. Both Hectors dolphins and the gregarious bottlenose species grace these waters.

Te Hikoi Museum Easily one of the country’s best small museums with lots of history on Western Southland. The Rock Room allows kids to identify all the types they’ve found on nearby beaches.

Gemstone Beach It’s possible to find your own sapphire stone on the beautiful, wild beach. Close to Monkey Island.

Long Hilly (Round Hill)

Walking Track Traipsing through a small section of the Roundhill Goldfield this is an easy, 2.7km looped walk that passes various gold mining relics. Allow two hours

Howells Point Reserve Watch waves crashing on the rocks as you walk along the coastline. On a clear day you can see Stewart Island.

TOP TIP: Cry Baby, Mad Granny, 32D and Madder Granny are just some of the cider flavours you’ll find at the Gadoochi Brewery.

GORE TUATAPERE STEWART ISLAND

Savour the South With some of the world’s best fare produced within the region, Invercargill serves up an eclectic mix of succulent seafood including world-famous Bluff oysters, Stewart Island salmon, mussels, paua and blue cod to name a few. Dine with the locals at Louie’s in Dee Street.

BLUFF

Bill Richardson Transport World Reputedly the largest private collection of its type in the world and haven for petrol heads. Discover more than 300 vehicles, a wearable arts’ collection, children’s play zones and themed bathrooms

INVERCARGILL RIVERTON

fast becoming as famous as the vehicles.

Classic Motorcycle Mecca

A motorcycle enthusiast’s dream day out. Discover the country’s largest display of classic motorcycles with over 300 motorbikes hailing as far back as 1902.

Splash Palace All indoors and an easy option for a full day of family fun, the leisure pool has a wave machine and the three new water slides will keep kids happy for hours on end.

The Heritage Trail A half-day tour featuring public artworks, sculptures and major landmarks.

TOP LEFT: Riverton Heritage Festival

Although best undertaken by car, it features plenty of stops that can be explored on foot.

Estuary Walkway Weave your way around Pleasure Bay Lagoon via a 4.7km looped boardwalk elevated slightly off the water. By foot or bicycle pedal, it’s flat, easy and a vision at sunset.

© Classic Motorcycle Mecca, Invercargill

BOTTOM: Queens Gardens during the Matariki Festival, Invercargill. BOTH © Great South

SERIOUSLY GOOD CHOCOLATE COMPANY

The southern-most chocolate company in the world, tour the factory and discover an inventive array of sweet treats such as beer infused chocolate and ‘chocolate bombs’.

LUMSDEN An hour from Invercargill and known for its railway history, the Around the Mountains cycle trail passes through here. Heritage buildings line the main street and you take a dip in the river or walk its grassy banks.

Burt Munro’s Bike In 1967

GORE TUATAPERE STEWART ISLAND

Burt Munro smashed the overland speed world record by motorcycle at 305.89 km per hour. He was 68 years of age. You can see the very bike he rode at E Hayes & Sons, a hardware store and motoring museum.

Burt Munro Challenge

Experience the largest motorcycle rally in the southern hemisphere, held every year in February, paying homage to Burt Munro.

INVERCARGILL RIVERTON

Ōreti Beach 10km west of the city centre this is where Burt Munro (among others) raced his motorbike. You can still drive on the beach but keep to 30km/h and 4WD is advised. Horse riding is another option here.

BLUFF

Dig This! This ground-breaking experience lets you have a crack at operating bulldozers, excavators, mini excavators and skid steers in a giant gravel pit.

TOP: © Bill Richardson Transport World BOTTOM: Bluff Signpost • RIGHT: Winton RSA BOTH © Southland Tourism

WINTON Thirty minutes north of Invercargill, Winton oozes rural charm. The heritage buildings are both quaint and striking, the streets are sleepy, and the community spirit is felt everywhere.

SWITZERS WAIKAIA

MUSEUM

A major drawcard for the tiny town of Waikaia, this museum has historic exhibitions about gold, Chinese miners and the town’s military history.

Thirty minutes from

INVERCARGILL

GORE TUATAPERE STEWART ISLAND

BLUFF

WORLD-FAMOUS BLUFF OYSTERS Many say there is no better oyster than a Bluff oyster. When in season (between March and August), shuck a few down your throat and make your own mind up.

RIVERTON

The Foveaux Strait is famed for its rough sea so catching the one-hour ferry requires a hard stomach. Take some gold coins for the cash bar.

TOP TIP: For the perfect selfie opportunity, visit the AA Directions signpost at Stirling Point, at the very end of SH 1.

Island with informative panels at the top.

TOPUNI TRACK Another way to reach the Bluff Hill summit is via this short but steep 50-minute track (one way) past a WWII gun emplacement through forest and shrub.

congregate throughout the Foveaux Strait. Meeting these apex predators eye-to-eye in their own environment is the ultimate in confronting and exhilarating experiences.

BLUFF MARITIME MUSEUM

STEWART ISLAND FERRY Bluff is your gateway to New Zealand’s third largest island.

MILLENNIUM TRACK Climb to the summit of Bluff Hill via this steep, one-hour (one way) track. Superb views encompass Foveaux Strait and Stewart

SOUTHLAND CHEESE ROLL Bluff’s annual event sees local masterminds bring their most inventive rolling contraption to Lee Street, where cheese is mounted and let loose down the road. Held every November.

SHARK CAGE DIVING For half of the year, Great White Sharks

Very affordable and crammed with maritime heritage, learn all about whaling and oyster farming, as well as the town’s early days when it was known as Campbelltown.

SHIP GRAVEYARD Green Point in Bluff Harbour has at least 14 small ships resting-in-pieces. A walkway follows the coastline to this ship graveyard.

Oban This is where the ferry docks. Oban Visitor Centre (next to the ferry terminal) organises car and bike rentals and you should nip into the pub for fresh oysters, salmon or blue cod, caught that day.

E-Biking Travel around at your own pace, cruising the 30km of roads. Reach remote destinations such as Horseshoe Point, Little River, Fern Gully or Ackers Point.

The Rakiura Track One of New Zealand’s Great Walks. Spend two to three days surrounded by beach, birds and bush, navigating 32km of remote terrain largely untouched by the humankind.

Wild Kiwi Over 80% of the island is protected national park, allowing native kiwi to flourish. Most active at dawn and dusk, if you’re using a headlamp, set it to red so it’s less startling.

Wild Kiwi Encounter As dusk falls, depart by catamaran from Halfmoon Bay and sail across Paterson Inlet to Little Glory Cove.

After a 45-minute guided walk, arrive at the beach to find Southern brown kiwi feeding at night.

The Southern Lights Rakiura is the island’s Māori name and means ‘glowing skies’ in reference to the Southern Lights (Aurora Australis) which smear the sky between April and September. Observation Rock is a popular lookout spot for witnessing this mesmerising light display.

Ulva Island As one of New Zealand’s predator-free sanctuaries, the flora and fauna is sensational. Arrive by boat from Halfmoon Bay or Golden Bay and pick up a selfguided walking and bird species book from the shelter.

Dark Sky Sanctuary As the southern-most Dark Sky Sanctuary on the planet, come nightfall you can get superb visibility of both Magellanic Clouds (two dwarf galaxies). Lack of urban development equals almost zero light pollution, allowing for a yearround spectacular night’s sky.

The Bunkhouse Theatre For a bit of fun, drop in and watch the daily 40-minute film about Stewart Island called A Local’s Tail. It’s detailed through the eyes of Lola the dog.

TOP TIP: Arrive prepared. There are no banks or large supermarkets –although you will find an ATM and Four Square in Oban.

Rakiura Jade Master carver, Dave Goodin’s workshop boasts fabulous views over the bay and it’s from here where you can carve your own piece of jade under his guidance.

Sunset Cruise Jump aboard the Ranui, a dinky wee boat that whisks passengers across the water. Bathed in a sunset glow, view the flora and fauna of Paterson Inlet at the prettiest time of day.

Rakiura Museum Delve into the island’s earliest memories at this small and modern museum. From early Māori settlement to timber milling and boat building, you’ll get a fascinating insight into what shaped Rakiura.

Guided Kayak Tours Get even closer to nature by kayaking the island’s pristine waters. Between the bays and beaches there’s a wealth of marine mammals and cool curiosities such as sea cucumbers.

Moturau Moana Native Gardens Home to an impressive assortment of native plants, this 13.7ha park is part botanic garden and partly left to its own devices (Mother Nature’s devices that is). With sparkling views over Halfmoon Bay, stay for 10 minutes or two hours.

CHARLTON MOTEL

DOLAMORE PARK CAMP

Halfmoon

ON

BEACH ROAD HOLIDAY PARK

QUEENS PARK

MALAGHAN

HALLENSTEIN

Lindis Valley

Tarras

Benmore

Lake

Fairlie

Waitaki

Otiake

Araroa

Aparima

Voted the most extraordinary experience in the