Otago Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Otago with this comprehensive travel guide featuring must-visit attractions, best things to do, food and drink scene, local culture, safety, and logistics.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Otago, New Zealand

Located in South Island, New Zealand, Otago boasts breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and exciting outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or adventure seeker, Otago has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan your trip to Otago.

Introduction to Otago

Otago is a region on the southeast coast of the South Island, New Zealand. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Southern Alps, magnificent waterfalls, and dramatic coastline. Otago is also renowned for its rich cultural heritage, with important historical sites and museums. The region is home to some of the best hiking and biking trails in New Zealand, offering thrilling adventures for all ages.

List of Places to Visit in Otago

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Otago Museum: One of the most popular museums in New Zealand, the Otago Museum showcases the region’s natural and cultural history. From rare fossils to Maori treasures, the museum has something for every history enthusiast.
  • Larnach Castle: Located on the Otago Peninsula, Larnach Castle is a historic 19th-century castle which is now open to visitors. The castle boasts stunning gardens and offers panoramic views of the Otago Peninsula.
  • Olveston Historic Home: A beautiful Jacobean-style mansion, the Olveston Historic Home offers visitors a glimpse into the life of a wealthy and influential family in the early 20th century. The house features an impressive collection of artwork, furniture, and artifacts from around the world.

Natural Attractions of Otago: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Milford Sound: Known as the eighth wonder of the world, Milford Sound is a breathtaking fjord in New Zealand’s South Island. Visitors can explore the fjord on a boat tour, kayak, or even by helicopter.
  • Mount Aspiring National Park: A true paradise for nature lovers, Mount Aspiring National Park features breathtaking landscapes of pristine alpine lakes, snow-capped mountains, and vast glaciers. The park offers numerous hiking trails for all levels of fitness and experience, from easy walks to challenging multi-day hikes.
  • The Otago Peninsula: Offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, the Otago Peninsula is home to rare wildlife, such as yellow-eyed penguins, fur seals, and sea lions. The peninsula is also a great spot for hiking, biking, and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Otago

  • Queenstown Trail: A 120-kilometer network of trails connecting Queenstown, Arrowtown, and Gibbston, the Queenstown Trail offers stunning views of the region’s mountains, lakes, rivers, and vineyards.
  • Otago Central Rail Trail: One of New Zealand’s most famous trails, the Otago Central Rail Trail follows the former railway line from Clyde to Middlemarch. The 150-kilometer trail offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, with many charming towns to explore along the way.
  • Mount Iron Track: Located in Wanaka, the Mount Iron Track is a 1.5-hour hike offering stunning views of Lake Wanaka and the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Otago: Activities and Tours

  • Skyline Queenstown: Skyline Queenstown offers thrilling activities for all ages, including a gondola ride, luge, mountain biking, stargazing, and more.
  • Otago Farmers Market: A must-visit attraction for foodies, the Otago Farmers Market is a lively and colorful market featuring fresh produce, artisanal bread, cheeses, chocolates, and more.
  • Dunedin Street Art Trail: The Dunedin Street Art Trail is a self-guided walking tour of the city’s vibrant street art scene, showcasing local and international artists’ works.

Week-Long Itinerary for Otago

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Dunedin’s Museums and Historical Sites
Day 2 Hike the Otago Peninsula and Visit Penguin Colonies
Day 3 Bike the Otago Central Rail Trail
Day 4 Take a Scenic Drive to Milford Sound
Day 5 Go Hiking in Mount Aspiring National Park
Day 6 Explore Queenstown’s Adventure Activities
Day 7 Relax in Wanaka’s Scenic Surroundings

Food and Drink Scene of Otago

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pavlova: A light, airy dessert made with a meringue crust, whipped cream, and fresh fruits, pavlova is a popular dessert in New Zealand and Australia.
  • Seafood Chowder: A hearty soup made with fresh seafood, potatoes, and vegetables, seafood chowder is a warming dish to savor on a chilly day.
  • Lamb Roast: New Zealand is famous for its lamb, and a classic lamb roast is a great way to taste this delicious meat.

Local Beverages

  • Central Otago Pinot Noir: Central Otago is known for producing some of the world’s best Pinot Noir wine, thanks to its unique climate and soil.
  • Speight’s Beer: A favorite among locals, Speight’s beer is a classic kiwi beer with a smooth, malty flavor.
  • Gin from The Cardrona Distillery: Awarded Best London Dry Gin in the World 2020, the gin from The Cardrona Distillery is a must-try for gin lovers.

Where to Stay in Otago: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin: Located in the heart of Dunedin, Kingsgate Hotel Dunedin offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the city’s attractions.
  • Larnach Lodge: Set in the stunning gardens of Larnach Castle, Larnach Lodge offers luxurious accommodation and stunning views of the Otago Peninsula.
  • YHA Queenstown Lakefront: A budget-friendly option for backpackers, YHA Queenstown Lakefront offers comfortable dorms and private rooms and easy access to the city’s attractions.

What to Buy in Otago: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Greenstone (Pounamu): A Maori cultural treasure, greenstone (pounamu) is a type of jade found only in New Zealand.
  • Merino Wool Products: New Zealand is famous for its high-quality merino wool, and Otago offers a vast range of woolen products, such as scarfs, hats, and gloves.
  • Central Otago Pinot Noir Wine: Bring home a bottle or two of Central Otago Pinot Noir and savor the taste of Otago’s unique terroir.

Local Culture and Customs of Otago

Otago is a diverse region with a rich cultural heritage. Maori culture is an essential part of New Zealand’s identity and can be experienced through cultural performances, language, and traditional food. Visitors are advised to respect the Maori culture and be mindful of their customs.

Best Time to Visit Otago

The best time to visit Otago is between December and February, which is summer in New Zealand. The weather is warm and sunny, and many outdoor activities are available. However, being the peak season, accommodations and activities can be more expensive.

Do’s and Don’ts of Otago

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs, especially Maori culture.
  • Bring warm clothing, even in summer, as temperatures can drop quickly in the evenings.
  • Try the local food and drinks, such as Central Otago Pinot Noir and seafood chowder.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural and cultural attractions.
  • Touch or disturb wildlife, such as penguins, fur seals, and sea lions.
  • Overlook safety precautions when engaging in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Otago

Otago is a relatively safe region with low crime rates. However, visitors are advised to take necessary precautions, such as keeping valuables out of sight, locking doors and windows, and not leaving belongings unattended. When engaging in outdoor activities, follow the safety guidelines and use appropriate equipment.

Health in Otago

New Zealand has a high-quality health care system, and visitors can access medical facilities in Otago if needed. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical treatment.

Getting to Otago: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Otago

  • Dunedin International Airport: Located in Mosgiel, Dunedin International Airport is the nearest airport to Otago’s main city, Dunedin.

Bus Stations Near Otago

  • Dunedin Central City Bus Hub: Located in the heart of Dunedin, the Dunedin Central City Bus Hub connects to cities across New Zealand.

Other Options

  • Driving: Otago is easily accessible by car, with well-maintained roads and stunning scenic routes.
  • Ferry: Visitors can take a ferry from the North Island to the South Island and then drive or take a bus to Otago.

How to Get Around in Otago

The best way to explore Otago’s natural and cultural attractions is by car or campervan. There are also several tours and shuttle services available for those who prefer not to drive. City centers, such as Dunedin and Queenstown, are relatively compact and can be explored on foot or by bike.

Where to Go Next from Otago: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Fiordland National Park: Known for its stunning fjords, waterfalls, and hiking trails, Fiordland National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
  • West Coast: The West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island is a rugged and wild region, featuring glaciers, rainforests, and beaches.
  • Mt Cook National Park: Home to New Zealand’s highest mountain, Mount Cook National Park offers stunning views, thrilling hikes, and impressive glaciers.

Conclusion

Otago is an incredible destination for anyone looking for outdoor adventures, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with all the information you need to plan your trip to Otago and make unforgettable memories.

Dunedin Town Hall featuring Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque architecture Dunedin Town Hall featuring Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Baroque architecture The Central Otago Rail Trail utilises the route of a disused railway line. The Central Otago Rail Trail utilises the route of a disused railway line.


    Alexandra
    Dunedin
    Milton
    Oamaru
    Ranfurly