Alexandra Travel Guide

Explore the best attractions, hiking/biking trails, food and drink scene, accommodation options, local culture, and much more in Alexandra, New Zealand's charming town located in South Island.


Introduction to Alexandra

Alexandra is a charming town located in Central Otago, in the South Island of New Zealand. It is situated on the banks of the Clutha River and surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, making it one of the most picturesque towns in the country. Despite its small size, Alexandra has a lot to offer its visitors, such as beautiful natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and numerous outdoor activities. In this guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to see and do, and where to stay in Alexandra.

List of Places to Visit in Alexandra

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Alexandra Museum: Discover the town’s rich history and heritage at the Alexandra Museum, which showcases the gold-mining era, lifestyle, and culture of early settlers.
  • Central Stories Museum & Art Gallery: Located on the site of the former Alexandra Courthouse and Jail, the Central Stories Museum & Art Gallery features exhibitions of art and historic artifacts from Central Otago.

Natural Attractions of Alexandra: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Clutha River: Take a walk along the banks of the mighty Clutha River, which is the longest river in New Zealand’s South Island, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
  • Butterfly Creek: Visit the Butterfly Creek Conservation Area, which is home to a range of native bird species and beautiful butterfly gardens.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Alexandra

Alexandra offers many hiking and biking trails, including:

  • Otago Central Rail Trail: Explore the stunning Central Otago countryside on this 150 km bike trail that passes through beautiful landscapes, tunnels, and viaducts.
  • Clyde to Alexandra Trail: Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Clutha River on this 10 km trail, which takes you from Clyde to Alexandra.

Best Things to Do in Alexandra: Activities and Tours

  • Stargazing at the Mount John Observatory: Go on a stargazing tour at the Mount John Observatory, which offers breathtaking views of the night sky from its hilltop location.
  • Wine Tasting in Central Otago: Explore the region’s award-winning wineries on a wine-tasting tour around Central Otago’s vineyards.

Week-Long Itinerary for Alexandra

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore Alexandra Museum, take a walk along the Clutha River
Day 2 Bike the Clyde to Alexandra Trail, have lunch at one of the town’s cafes
Day 3 Visit Butterfly Creek Conservation Area, go for a picnic lunch
Day 4 Hike the Otago Central Rail Trail, have dinner at a local restaurant
Day 5 Go on a wine-tasting tour around Central Otago’s vineyards
Day 6 Visit the Central Stories Museum & Art Gallery, go shopping in town
Day 7 Stargazing at the Mount John Observatory, have a farewell dinner at a local restaurant

Food and Drink Scene of Alexandra

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cromwell Cherry: Try the cherry from Cromwell, which is famous for its sweet and juicy taste.
  • Central Otago Lamb: Sample the grass-fed lamb, which is a specialty of the region and considered to be one of the best meats in New Zealand.

Local Beverages

  • Central Otago Pinot Noir: Enjoy a glass of the region’s award-winning Pinot Noir, which is known for its unique flavor and aroma.
  • Speight’s Beer: Taste the iconic beer of New Zealand at Speight’s Ale House, which is a popular local brewery in Alexandra.

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

  • The Roxburgh Motels: Located in the heart of Alexandra, The Roxburgh Motels offer comfortable and affordable accommodation for travelers.
  • Alexandra Heights Motel: Enjoy stunning views of the town and surrounding hills from the Alexandra Heights Motel, which offers clean and spacious rooms.

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

  • Central Otago Fruit: Bring home some fresh fruits and vegetables from the local farmers’ market, which offers a range of seasonal produce.
  • Merino Wool Products: Shop for woolen products, such as socks, hats, and scarves, which are made from the high-quality merino wool that New Zealand is famous for.

Local Culture and Customs of Alexandra

The people of Alexandra are friendly and welcoming, and the town has a proud history and rich cultural heritage. The local culture in Alexandra is heavily influenced by the gold-mining era, and you can see evidence of this in the town’s architecture and historic buildings.

Best Time to Visit Alexandra

The best time to visit Alexandra is during the summer months of December to February, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is buzzing with activities and events. Autumn and spring are also good times to visit, as the weather is mild, and the landscape transforms into vibrant colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Alexandra

Do:

  • Do explore the town’s rich cultural heritage and architecture.
  • Do try the local food and drink specialties.
  • Do respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Don’t disrespect the local culture and traditions.
  • Don’t underestimate the weather conditions, especially during winter.

Safety and Health

Safety in Alexandra

Alexandra is a safe town, and the crime rate is relatively low. However, it is always recommended to take necessary precautions when traveling, such as keeping your valuables safe and avoiding walking alone in the dark.

Health in Alexandra

Alexandra has a good healthcare system, and there are medical centers and hospitals in nearby towns in case of emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Getting to Alexandra: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Alexandra

The nearest airports to Alexandra are Queenstown Airport (92 km) and Dunedin Airport (139 km), both of which are well-connected to major cities in New Zealand and Australia.

Bus Stations Near Alexandra

InterCity Coachlines and Newmans Coach Lines operate daily bus services to and from Alexandra, connecting it to major cities and towns across the South Island.

Other Options

Car rental services are available at both Queenstown and Dunedin airports, providing a convenient way to explore the region at your own pace.

How to Get Around in Alexandra

The best way to explore Alexandra and its surroundings is by car, as it gives you the freedom to explore at your own leisure. However, biking and walking are also popular options for shorter journeys.

Where to Go Next from Alexandra: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Queenstown: Explore the adventure capital of New Zealand and indulge in outdoor activities like skiing, bungee jumping, and jet boating.
  • Dunedin: Visit the historic town of Dunedin, known for its stunning architecture and cultural attractions, such as the Otago Museum and Larnach Castle.

Conclusion

Alexandra is a beautiful and charming town that offers a range of activities and attractions for its visitors. From stunning natural landscapes to rich cultural heritage, Alexandra has something for everyone. Plan your trip to this hidden gem of New Zealand and experience the best that it has to offer.

Alexandra Bridges Alexandra Bridges