Discover Central Otago Affectionately called ‘Central’ by those that know it well Central Otago is New Zealand’s most inland region, located in the southern half of the South Island. It’s breathtakingly different with vast undulating landscapes, rugged snow-capped mountains, clear blue rivers, deep gorges and tussock-clad hills. Central Otago is one of New Zealand’s best wine producing regions, and home to New Zealand’s most popular cycle trail set on a converted historic railway line. Away from the crowds and with plenty of space Central Otago offers a very personal and unique experience to visitors. Central Otago is a 1 hour drive from Queenstown. Alexandra in Central Otago is the location for the games on Wednesday 18 November. The Central Otago Visitor Centres have put together some recommended options for partner activities on th the day of the rugby and a range of full day options for the free day on Thursday 19 November. Own transport from Queenstown is required which the Central Otago Visitor Centres can also help organise for you. If you are interested in booking any of the activities please email visitorcentre@codc.govt.nz. Bookings are required.
Spend a day cycling on one of the most scenic sections of the Otago Central Rail Trail. The Otago Central Rail trail is New Zealand’s most popular cycle trail. The level trail set away from sealed roads is ideal for those of all levels of experience. This one day ride takes in two tunnels which are cut through schist rock bluffs and the 37m high Poolburn Viaduct. The ride is 47km in distance and descends through the valleys of Central Otago into the township of Alexandra. Along the trail there are cafes, restaurants and country pubs. Package includes bike hire and transportation from Alexandra. Price $99/person. Minimum 2 Cyclists.
Enjoy a scenic self drive tour through the unique and stunning Central Otago countryside, covering some of the route taken by cyclists on the Otago Central Rail trail. Try curling at the only year round curling rink in the Southern Hemisphere. Get up close, play, cuddle and learn about working sled dogs (Alaskan Malamutes) with a tour at the Real Dog Equipment. Explore and have lunch in the ex-gold mining town of Naseby. A tour through the historic Hayes Engineering site – complete with cafe. Stop for a refreshing drink in Ophir on the way home. Package includes Curling, Real Dog Equipment and Hayes Engineering site tours. Price: $72.95/person excludes lunch and transport
In the morning discover the internationally renowned Highlands Motorsport Park. Highlands has something for everyone. Experience the race track at speed in a Porsche Cayenne Turbo, Lamborghini, V8 Supercar. Race go karts at speeds of upto 50km/hour. Enjoy the extensive collection in the car museum.
Enjoy a platter lunch containing a selection of cured meats, pancetta, salami & cold smoked salmon. Antipasti; Kalamata olives, cornicons & sundried tomatoes. Local cheeses, fresh fruit & house dips, served with warm ciabatta bread & cracker biscuits After lunch you will be taken on a tour of Central Otago’s world class wineries and vineyards. This is a fun and informative tour of the best Central Otago wineries with a professional wine guide and driver. You can meet wine makers, undertake wine tastings, purchase wine to take home and take in the beautiful Central Otago scenery. Price: $183.95/person minimum 6 pax. Includes:
Entry to Highlands Museum, lunch, wine tour, tastings and transport from Highlands.
Excludes:
Additional beverages Go Karts Single $39 Tandem $49 (10 minutes) Highlands Taxi (Porsche Cayenne Turbo) $120 up to four people/taxi Lamborghini Fast Lap $169/person Transport from Queenstown
In the morning you discover the internationally renowned Highlands Motorsport Park. Highlands has something for everyone. Enjoy the extensive collection in the car museum. Try out some of the optional extras such as experiencing the race track at speed in a Porsche Cayenne Turbo, Lamborghini, V8 Supercar or racing go karts at speeds of upto 50km/hour.
Enjoy a platter lunch containing a selection of cured meats, pancetta, salami & cold smoked salmon. Antipasti; Kalamata olives, cornicons & sundried tomatoes. Local cheeses, fresh fruit & house dips, served with warm ciabatta bread & cracker biscuits After lunch travel through the Cromwell gorge to Alexandra where your river cruise will begin. Cruise the stunning Roxburgh gorge with its sheer cliffs and unspoilt natural environment by boat along the Clutha River. Marvel at and walk around the well preserved Chinese and European gold mining sites from the 1860s while the skipper and tour guide provides entertaining tales from yesteryear. Bring your camera as there will be excellent photo opportunities along with gold panning & light refreshments. Price: $155.95/person minimum 2 pax. Includes:
Entry to Highlands Museum, platter lunch, and Clutha River Cruise.
Excludes:
Additional beverages Go Karts Single $39 Tandem $49 (10 minutes) Highlands Taxi (Porsche Cayenne Turbo) $120 up to four people per taxi Lamborghini Fast Lap $169/person Transport from Queenstown
Short excursion options for partners on the day of the rugby in Alexandra. Bookings required prior to the day.
Como Villa Estate Wine Tasting and lunch in Clyde 3 hours (11am-2pm) A visit to Como Villa Estate is a step back in time - the original stone house built in 1865, has been lovingly restored for a rustic ambience and unique cellar door experience. Visitors sample a range of quality wines including; Pinot Noir, Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris and an oaked Rosé. Following Como Villa explore the quaint historic gold mining town of Clyde. Clyde has beautifully preserved stone buildings that now house boutique cafes and restaurants. This beautiful town will provide you with many photographing opportunities and tempting eateries. Price: $10 per person. Includes wine tastings, excludes lunch.
River and Rocks Horse Ride
3-4 hours Take a ride to remember wading through the Manuherikia River, and then up the trail to the Alexandra Clock. Absorb the spectacular views before progressing onwards and returning to the river for a final splash to cool down. Add in a visit to The Shaky Bridge Café for a tipple en route - A ride to remember! Approximately 3 hours. 1 – 5 people. 9am or 2pm departure.
Price: $225 per person.