Otago
Gold Mines & Fine Wines
Otago is New Zealand’s second largest local government region, its main settlements include Dunedin on the east coast, Queenstown and Wanaka in the west, with many smaller towns in the inland central area, such as Cromwell, Clyde and, to the north, Oamaru.
Central Otago is a region with a powerful landscape of ancient mountains, weathered rock formations, alpine-herb fields, fast-flowing rivers, and bigger-than-big sky. It is New Zealand’s most inland region with continental climatic extremes. Home to New Zealand’s original ‘Great Ride’, the Otago Central Rail Trail, the region is also steeped in gold mining heritage.
Jump to the region you wish to explore by clicking below.
With its unique climate, the area is renowned for producing some of the best wines in the country. Pinot Noir excels in these southernmost vineyards, and wineries welcome visitors for tours and tastings.
Dunedin
~ EDINBURGH OF THE SOUTH ~
The port city of Dunedin, known as ‘The Edinburgh of the South’, is the principle city of the Otago region. It owes its existence to Scottish settlers, who established it around the hills of its upper harbour in 1848. Rich in heritage and character, it’s also renowned for its University culture, and abundant wildlife on the adjoining Otago Peninsula which includes the world’s only mainland Albatross breeding colony, a Fur Seal breeding colony and a reserve for the Yellow-Eyed Penguin, rarest and oldest of the world’s penguins. It is also home to Larnach Castle and its Garden of International Significance.
Must See and Do:
- View the unique and rare wildlife found on the Otago Peninsula
- Ride the Taieri Gorge Railway through the rugged and spectacular Taieri River Gorge
- Visit Larnach Castle and its Garden of International Significance
- Enjoy an entertaining tour of Speight’s Brewery
- Step back in time at the Otago Settlers Museum, one of New Zealand’s finest social history museums
- Take a wildlife cruise to see the best of the Otago Peninsula
Here is a small selection of the accommodation available in the Otago area, but we have many alternative Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs, Motels and Lodges to suit all tastes and budgets.
Hotel St Clair, Dunedin
A luxury boutique hotel situated right on The Esplanade, opposite St Clair beach, just seven minutes from the centre of the city. Built with the environment in mind, this boutique hotel offers 26 contemporary rooms – each beautifully designed and furnished to complement the stunning South Pacific Ocean that dominates the views.
Executive Studio Room
Elegantly furnished rooms with a comfortable lounge opening onto a private balcony where the evening sun, views of the ocean and the surrounding St Clair area can be enjoyed. Relax on a luxurious Super-King bed with en-suite which has a separate shower and bath. In-room entertainment options include a range of Sky TV channels on LCD screens and free WiFi.
Executive Ocean View Room
These rooms are situated on the first and second floors, and benefit from a stunning oceanfront view. They have a Super-King bed with an array of designer pillows and a custom-designed mattress topper, flat screen TV, en-suite bathroom with shower and heated tile flooring, tea and coffee- making facilities, kitchenette with refrigerator, toaster and microwave.
Premier Ocean View Room
The floor-to-ceiling windows and personal balconies offer exceptional views of St. Clair Beach, local surfing action and other esplanade attractions from these Premier Ocean View Rooms. All tastefully and luxuriously appointed, including a lounge area with soft seating sofa and coffee table, designer en-suite bathrooms with under floor heating and a host of other luxury amenities.
Luxury Ocean View Room
Each of these uniquely-appointed Luxury Ocean View Rooms offers fantastic views of the Otago coastline and beautiful St Clair Beach, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a large private balcony to maximize the views of the wildlife, and the beautiful Dunedin sunrise. Enjoy a spacious living area, with separate bedroom featuring a Super-King bed, luxury linen and covers. The en-suite has a spa bath and shower plus specially selected New Zealand-made toiletries and robes. You also have the convenience of laundry, and kitchen facilities (microwave and cook-top), two Sky TV enabled LCD screens, locally produced artworks, and WiFi.
Distinction Dunedin
Located in the heart of the city, this 1937s former Chief Post Office building has been transformed into Dunedin’s premier hotel. The luxury hotel suites and studios all feature air-conditioning, ultimate soundproofing, luxurious pillow top mattresses, 55″ TV’s, walk-in showers, washer/dryers and kitchenettes with fridges, microwaves and tea and coffee-making facilities. Guests can enjoy free unlimited Wi-Fi, an express check-in process, dining at Parcels Restaurant, drinks at the Post Bar, and complimentary access to the on-site gym.
Studio
The ideal combination of style and functionality with a Super-King bed and modern en-suite bathroom, writing desk, two comfortable armchairs, and a table.
One Bedroom Suite
Stylish and sophisticated these elegantly-appointed Suites offer a separate bedroom and living/dining area. They have Super-King beds, comfortable couch, dining-table and chairs, and TV’s in both the bedroom and living area.
Executive Studio
Executive Studios are a perfect haven for business and pleasure, with every detail thoughtfully considered. Enjoy the luxury of more space with your own lounge area, complete with comfortable chaise couch, Super-King bed and spacious en-suite, which has a bath and separate shower, plus double hand basins.
Captain Eady’s Lookout
This delightful, character Bed and Breakfast enjoys a quiet and peaceful location on the Otago Peninsula at Portobello, just a short scenic drive from Dunedin. It is situated on a small bluff overlooking Otago Harbour and has a secluded garden featuring roses, rhododendrons and New Zealand native plants. Portobello village is just a few minutes’ walk with its café, craft gallery, museum and store. The Albatross Colony, ocean beaches and penguins are all within easy reach.
Downstairs Room
This room has a Queen bed, en-suite with shower and access to the garden.
Upstairs Room
Enjoy the sea views from the balcony in this Upstairs Room which has a Queen bed and en-suite bathroom.
Some of the experiences available in Dunedin are outlined below, but there are many, many more, so please ask for details of any other activity you would like to include during your stay.
Full Wildlife Peninsula Encounter Tour, Dunedin
During this full-day tour you will experience all the wildlife encounters on the Otago Peninsula. You’ll be taken around the inlet eco-systems and spot different wading birds before stopping at an isolated beach. A short walk will provide dramatic views of rugged coastal cliffs, offshore islands and perhaps some huge Sea Lions. The trip continues to Taiaroa Head, and the Royal Albatross Centre where your guide will take you to the private viewing observatory that looks out over the Royal Albatross breeding colony. Watch these majestic birds glide past on three metre wingspans, or as they interact with and feed their chicks. Time is allowed to purchase lunch from the Albatross Cafe (not included). After lunch, it’s a short drive to Wellers Rock Wharf, for a Monarch Wildlife Cruise. You’ll travel out of the harbour, around Taiaroa Head, and out to sea. Watch Royal Albatross glide across the water and return to their breeding colony. Beneath a historic lighthouse is a colony of playful fur seals. You’ll spot other rare seabirds, marine mammals and maybe Blue Penguins. The final stop is at a Yellow-Eyed Penguin conservation reserve. Visit the on-site rehab centre before heading into the reserve for a walking tour through a great example of native bushland. Watch as the world’s rarest penguin returns ashore and interacts around their nesting sites. Your tour ends with a relaxed drive, following the harbour, back to Dunedin.
Duration: 10.5 Hours
Taieri Gorge Railway, Dunedin
Join your Taieri Gorge Railway train at the Dunedin Railway Station to commence a full day journey from Dunedin through the rugged and spectacular Taieri River Gorge to Middlemarch and back again. The vintage train travels across wrought iron viaducts and through tunnels which were carved by hand more than 100 years ago. With a full commentary, photographic stops and on-board refreshments, the train offers year-round, all-weather entertainment.
Duration: 6 Hours
Larnach Castle and Gardens, Dunedin
New Zealand’s only castle is a must see for anyone wanting to know Dunedin better. William Larnach commissioned its construction in 1871. The undeniable beauty of this site high above the harbour is complemented by the fascinating stories of the Victorian castle’s skilled creators, those who lived there and its rediscovery and restoration. The castle’s 14-hectare garden and grounds are recognised as a Garden of International Significance, and the Ballroom Café serves delicious lunches and high teas.
Queenstown
~ THE ADVENTURE CAPITAL OF THE WORLD ~
Known as ‘The Adventure Capital of the World’, Queenstown is one of the best-loved alpine playgrounds of the Southern Hemisphere. Characterised by stunning scenery, adventure and excitement, it also has some of the best shops, hotels and international cuisine in the country, and is a tourist mecca.
Must See and Do
- Enjoy the world’s most exciting jetboat ride on the Shotover River
- Cruise across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak Station aboard the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw
- Experience the total wilderness of the Mt Aspiring National Park World Heritage area on the Dart River Jet Safari
- Explore the locations used in filming ‘The Lord of the Rings’ by 4WD vehicle
- Take a scenic helicopter flight
- Experience a bungee jump
- Try white-water rafting
- Journey up the Skyline Gondola and enjoy the panoramic views, restaurant and luge
- Visit the many local wineries
Here is a small selection of the accommodation available in Queenstown, but we have many alternative Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs, Motels and Lodges to suit all tastes and budgets.
Hotel St Moritz Queenstown – MGallery
Superbly positioned in a spectacular mountain lake setting, within walking distance of Queenstown attractions, Hotel St Moritz Queenstown embodies the spirit of its alpine surroundings. With its floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views, the hotel features 142 rooms and suites, plus Lombardi Dining Room, bar, library, fitness centre and hot tub garden.
All Rooms and Suites have a 40” LCD television, pay-per-view movies, Sky TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, minibar, iron and ironing-board.
St Moritz Guest Room – Garden and Lake View
Stylishly decorated rooms with the option of a panoramic lake view or lake view with small balcony. There is a separate en-suite bathroom with large glass walk-in shower featuring Molten Brown toiletries.
One Bedroom Alpine Suite Lake View
These spacious 54m2 self-contained Suites have breath taking views with a separate King bedroom,
a large lounge with dining area, kitchenette and spacious en-suite with large glass walk in shower and separate bath featuring Molten Brown toiletries. The sofa converts into an inner-sprung sofa-bed if additional bedding is required (extra charges apply). A supplement also applies if you would like this Suite with a small balcony.
Queenstown Park Boutique Hotel
Centrally-located, yet surrounded by parklands, this kiwi-owned boutique hotel is architecturally designed to complement Queenstown’s majestic mountain backdrop. Inside, every space features a stylish and modern interior made up of thoughtfully-selected finishes courtesy of local and internationally acclaimed designers. Dedicated to providing a niche luxury experience, each guest will receive personal attention to introduce them to the best the region has to offer.
Your stay includes daily gourmet à la carte breakfast, and you are invited every evening for complimentary pre-dinner drinks and canapés in the Remarkables Lounge. Free covered car parking is available, as well as complimentary unlimited WiFi.
Gondola Room
View Queenstown’s alpine Gondola from the comfort of self-contained luxury. Featuring a glass-walled bathroom, subtle chandelier lighting and your own private courtyard, these spacious and
Remarkables Room
An indulgent, suite-style guest room with views towards Queenstown’s Remarkables mountain range. These 38.5 – 55m² (414-592 ft2) rooms are self-contained with kitchenette, and feature subtle chandelier lighting, a full-length gilt-edged mirror, glass-walled bathroom with free-standing bath and separate toilet, air-conditioning and either a patio or balcony.
Remarkables Junior Suite
The most luxurious and spacious guest rooms are surrounded by tasteful contemporary décor, complemented by a cosy gas fire. Relish in the views on offer from your private balcony, enjoy the generous wardrobe storage space and relax in the free-standing bath of this 50m² (540ft2) retreat.
Browns Boutique Hotel
This charming European-styled boutique hotel combines bed & breakfast with genuine New Zealand hospitality. Superbly situated in a central Queenstown location, it’s just three minutes’ walk to the shops and restaurants. The ten spacious, quiet guest rooms have French doors opening onto Juliet balconies with beautiful views over Queenstown toward the Remarkables Mountains.
Guest facilities include a lounge with open fire, dining-room and outdoor patio with an open fire.
All Rooms feature soft-toned European-styled décor, carpets and soft furnishings, and create a warm and welcoming ambience. Super-King beds can be configured with Twin beds, and all rooms have an en-suite bathroom.
Premium King Rooms
Located on the street entry level, with excellent views from the balcony.
Gallery Room
Feature local art and gallery-style touches, with additional windows overlooking Queenstown and the lake vista.
Superior King Rooms
These rooms are located on the top floor with the best views.
Honeymoon Room
Also located on the top floor with romantic and personal touches.
Some of the experiences available in the ‘Adventure Capital of the World’ are outlined below, but there are many, many more, so please ask for details of any other activity you would like to include during your stay.
Famous Routeburn Track Day Walk, Queenstown
Experience the Famous Routeburn Track on this guided one-day walk. The day begins with a scenic drive to the northern end of Lake Wakatipu and into the Routeburn Valley. From here you walk through the ancient beech forest of the Mount Aspiring National Park, with the high snow-capped mountains providing a magnificent backdrop.
Duration: 9 Hours (including a picnic lunch and refreshments)
Scenic Cruise on TSS Earnslaw and Walter Peak Barbecue Dinner
Enjoy the scenic cruise from Queenstown Bay, across Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm on the vintage steamship TSS Earnslaw, for a totally unique dining experience. On arrival at Walter Peak, you’ll be escorted through the lakeside gardens to the Colonel’s Homestead for dinner. You can relax in front of a roaring open fire, soaking in the views from this stunning lakeside setting, while the chefs prepare a gourmet barbecue and rotisserie on the outdoor grill, featuring a selection of succulent New Zealand meat and seafood. Seasonal salads, tasty dessert treats, and local cheeses complete the experience, complemented by local wines and other beverages which are available to purchase at the bar. After dinner, join an entertaining farm experience giving an insight into life in the New Zealand high country, including a sheep shearing demonstration. The night-time cruise home is magical. Join in the camaraderie of a sing-along with the ship’s pianist.
Duration: 4 Hours
Whakatipu Basin Safari of the Scenes, Queenstown
Enjoy this personalised adventure tour, designed to capture the heart of the most avid ‘Lord of the Rings’ fans. Your expert guide will take you to some of the spectacular filming locations, and you will also experience gold panning, 4WD river crossings in the Arrow Gorge, and a great overview of the diverse scenery of the Queenstown/Arrowtown area – from towns, to rolling farmland, rugged Skippers Canyon, mountains, to the famous Kawarau Gorge bungy bridge. You will view the film locations of Minas Tirith, Misty Mountains, the Pillars of the Kings (Argonath), the site of Isildur’s fall, and the Ford of Bruinen. You’ll also overlook Deer Park Heights, where the Rohan refugees and the battle with the Wargs were filmed before returning to Queenstown.
Duration: 4 Hours
Milford Sound – Fly/Cruise/Fly
Fly by fixed-wing plane from Queenstown to Milford Sound, with panoramic views of spectacular alpine scenery and lush rainforest. Once on the ground at Milford Airport, board a luxury vessel to cruise the full length of Milford Sound, with excellent views and commentary and plenty of time to enjoy the waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife. Return to Queenstown by fixed-wing plane.
Duration: 4.75 Hours
Dart River Wilderness Safari, Glenorchy
One of Queenstown’s most exhilarating activities, the Wilderness Jet, half-day adventure takes you on a spectacular journey deep into the heart of the world-renowned Mount Aspiring National Park. You’ll experience a unique combination of breath-taking scenery and an exhilarating ride as you follow the braided, glacier-fed rivers by jet-boat, with exciting 360-degree spins along the way. Your guides will tell you all about the area’s rich history, the Greenstone trail and countless Māori legends. You can also walk amongst the ancient beech tree forests – an atmosphere you may recognize from ‘The Lord of the Rings’ films.
Duration: 6 Hours
Boutique Wine Tour, Queenstown
Join a fun and interactive small-group wine tour and let the expert Wine Guide take you off the beaten track into the heart of Central Otago, a wine region famous for its boutique vineyards, dramatic scenery and fascinating pioneering history. Enjoy tastings from three vineyards in three contrasting wine sub-regions: the Gibbston Valley and the lesser-known Cromwell and Bannockburn basin. Stop for lunch at a fourth vineyard restaurant, where you will also tour the vineyard, barrel hall and see the winemaking facilities. Savour a wine flight and delightful platter-style lunch made with locally-sourced produce. Your Wine Guide will give a full commentary on the wine, sights and early history, providing an entertaining drive with plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Duration: 5.5 Hours
Wanaka
~ THE LIFESTYLE RESERVE ~
Then, there’s the bustling town of Wanaka, in the heart of the Southern Lakes, surrounded by golden hills, the stunning backdrop of the Southern Alps, ancient forests, pristine lakes and rivers. Like Queenstown, it offers a wealth of outdoor adventures, with Mount Aspiring National Park and four international alpine resorts on its doorstep.
Must See and Do
- Walk in the Mount Aspiring National Park
- Take a helicopter flight over the area with a high-country landing
- Visit the New Zealand Fighter Pilots Museum
- Lose yourself in a world of jigsaw puzzles and a maze at Puzzling World
- Drive to Makarora and join the Siberia Experience Day tour including a jet-boating trip, flight and walk through the native bush
- Cruise on the lake to Mou Waho Island where you can enjoy a 40-minute bush walk
- Enjoy a thrilling jet-boat ride on the Matukituki River and 30-minute wilderness walk
Here is a small selection of the accommodation available in Wanaka, but we have many alternative Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs, Motels and Lodges to suit all tastes and budgets.
Edgewater Resort, Wanaka
Wanaka’s only lake-edge accommodation is set on 10 acres of park-like grounds and is easily accessible to the boutique shops, restaurants and activities in the centre of town. You will experience genuine Southern hospitality, and have the option of staying in either a hotel room, or one- or two-bedroom apartment-style accommodation. A warm and inviting atmosphere awaits at Sargoods Restaurant and Wineglass Café, situated at the heart of Edgewater. On-site leisure facilities include Element Edgewater Day Spa, an all-weather tennis court, spa, putting green and sauna.
Garden or Lake View Hotel Room
Stylish rooms with stunning lake or mountain views from the balcony or patio. They have either a King bed or Queen plus a Single bed, en-suite bathroom with robes and slippers, Smart TV’s, tea and coffee-making facilities (a supplement applies for Lake View Rooms).
Garden or Lake View One Bedroom Apartment
You have more space in these 57m2 apartments, with a King bed in the separate bedroom, en-suite with bath and twin shower, sofa bed in the lounge, dining area, kitchenette, in-room washer/dryer, Smart TV and either a patio or balcony with uninterrupted vistas (a supplement applies for the Lake View Apartments).
Lake View Two Bedroom Apartments
These have the same features as the one-bedroom apartments but are 80m2, with a second bedroom and a full kitchenette.
The Moorings, Wanaka
With lake and mountain views, these stylish, spacious studios, and two- and three-bedroom apartments are located right by the lake, just two minutes’ walk from the town centre. Guest facilities include a laundry, barbecue and WiFi. Continental breakfast is available on request.
Studio
The understated studios have King or twin Double beds, bathrooms with shower-over-the-bath, kitchenette including fridge, microwave and hotplates, WiFi, living area, Smart TVs, and patios or balconies with views of the lake and mountains.
Two- and Three-Bedroom Apartments
These apartments have two or three separate bedrooms, and one or two bathrooms over two floors, full kitchens, generous dining and living areas, and large balconies with barbecue, outdoor table, chairs and umbrella with partial lake or mountain views.
Tin Tub Luxury Lodge
Although it sits in a rural setting on the hills overlooking the lake and mountains, this luxury lodge is only a few minutes’ drive from Wanaka township. Perfect for all seasons, with its solar-heated swimming pool in the summer, full-size tennis court, sauna, gym and drying-room for skis in winter. The guest lounge and library feature an inviting open fire for those cooler evenings. Take a mountain-bike for a spin, go for a hike, or enjoy a wine-tasting at nearby vineyard.
Peak View Rooms
These rooms are located above the lodge garage with limited lake and mountain views. They have either a Super King bed or a Queen and King single, en-suite with shower, refrigerator, WiFi, lodge baked biscuits and tea and coffee-making facilities.
Lodge Rooms
Located separately from the main Lodge, these rooms are spacious with soaring ceilings, Californian King beds, large en-suites featuring spa baths, walk-in showers and toilets with bidets, air-conditioning, flat screen TV, WiFi, tea and coffee-making facilities. They open out onto patios and gardens, with outdoor slipper-tubs to enjoy the views and stars.
Some of the experiences available around Wanaka are outlined below, but there are many, many more, so please ask for details of any other activity you would like to include during your stay.
Lake Cruise and Mou Waho Nature Trek, Wanaka
This tour is a “Must Do” for Nature lovers, birdwatchers and photographers alike. Mou Waho Island nature reserve is predator-free, and home to the rare flightless Buff Weka (extinct on the mainland since 1920). After a scenic cruise across the lake, you have the option of a one-hour return guided bush walk, which reveals the island’s unique and very photogenic secret – a lake right on top of the island! Or if you prefer, you can just sit back, relax and enjoy the birdlife at the beach, and shelter at the island’s base with your own morning or afternoon tea. ‘High Tea’ is included on top of the island overlooking both lakes, where you can hear the vibrant birdsong and enjoy the panorama of the Southern Alps. You can also plant a native tree as part of your Eco-experience. This is a unique opportunity to give back to this special island, and to New Zealand’s environment.
Duration: 3.5 hours
Siberia Wilderness Adventure, Makarora
Enjoy a wilderness experience combining a scenic flight, a wilderness walk and a river jet safari. Start your experience in Makarora, with a 20-minute scenic helicopter flight taking in aerial views of the towering ice-carved mountains and glaciers. Land in the remote Siberia Valley, and enjoy a relaxing 3-hour walk on a well-marked track. Rendezvous with your jet-boat for a thrilling and informative return jet-boat ride through the icy blue waters of the Wilkin and Makarora Rivers (30 minutes).
Duration: 4 Hours
Central Otago
~ HERITAGE & SCENERY ~
Central Otago is a region touched by history, with a powerful landscape of ancient mountains, weathered rock formations, alpine herb fields, fast flowing rivers and bigger-than-big sky. It is New Zealand’s most inland region with continental climatic extremes. When it comes to cycle trails, Central Otago is home to New Zealand’s original “Great Ride” – the Otago Central Rail Trail. Others include the Roxburgh Gorge and Clutha Gold trails, which show off the region’s goldmining heritage and spectacular scenery.
Must See and Do
- Walk, cycle or horse ride the country’s first Rail Trail, past productive farmlands, spectacular gorges, awesome schist rock and magnificent mountains
- Retrace the steps of hardy pioneers, through goldfields, historic sites, museum collections, and small towns with stone architecture
- Stop by orchard stalls of succulent summer fruits, and take a wine trail to fledgling vineyards of international repute
- Admire the first wildflowers of spring, and the stunning shades of autumn
- Experience cross-country skiing, water sports, mountain-biking and multi-sport events
- Fish for salmon on the Clutha River, and trout in both the lakes and rivers
- Try the ancient winter ice sport of Curling, and visit the many exceptional art and craft galleries
Here is a small selection of the accommodation available in the Central Otago area, but we have many alternative Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs, Motels and Lodges to suit all tastes and budgets.
Olivers Lodge & Stables, Clyde
The historic Olivers Lodge complex opened a new chapter in its fascinating history when the building underwent an authentic restoration, reflecting its significant place in the chronicles of the Central Otago region.
The original stone complex, located in Clyde’s historic precinct, was built in 1869 as a general store, servicing the prospectors who sought their fortunes during the Otago gold rush. Today, in recognition of its outstanding heritage value, Olivers is protected by the New Zealand Historic Places Trust with a priority Category One classification.
The buildings have now been sensitively resorted, including an elegant homestead, the old store, coach sheds, stables and barns. Landscaping highlights the original central courtyard and gardens. Eleven rooms, divided into Stables and Lodge accommodation, superbly blend the old with the new, creating a contemporary ambience integrally linked with bygone days.
The renowned Olivers Restaurant and Bar, The Victoria Store Brewery, and The Merchant of Clyde (a café and deli) are all located onsite.
Deluxe Superior Rooms
The Lodge – Jackson Room: The Jackson Room has an appealing interior, and includes a new bathroom with shower and Victorian slipper bath, King bed and quality cotton linen. The room opens directly onto Olivers’ sunny private courtyard.
The Lodge – Davidson Room: The Davidson Room features a beautiful 1880’s fireplace, traditional English wallpaper, contemporary en-suite complete with a traditional claw foot bath, King bed and quality cotton linen. The room can be joined with the adjacent Dunstan Room for family groups, and opens directly onto Olivers’ sun filled courtyard.
The Stables – Soap Factory: With its twin bay windows this room is light and sunny with an attractive outlook over the courtyard. Whilst retaining the rustic schist walls and wooden floors the room boasts a wonderfully comfortable King bed and a newly-renovated en-suite.
Premier Rooms
The Lodge – Naylor Room: In 1929 an art deco restoration transformed this room with the addition of an ornate plaster ceiling, Art Deco fireplace, large bay window, King bed or Twin singles and quality cotton linen. A contemporary bathroom has recently been added which has private access to Olivers’ spacious front lawn and gardens.
The Lodge – Horn Room: The luxurious room, with its 1880s fireplace and bay window, has an exquisitely draped Victorian Queen half-tester bed while the modern bathroom features a claw foot bath and shower. The room provides easy access to the secluded Olivers’ courtyard.
The Lodge – Sullivan Room: The grand and spacious Sullivan Room is aptly named, being the former homestead dining-room. It is superbly furnished with ornate wallpaper and features a 19th century fireplace, sash window and Super-King bed overlooking Olivers’ extensive front lawn and gardens.
The Stables – Smoke House: A focal point of this premier room is the old clawfoot bath where guests can literally ‘soak up’ the fascinating history reinforced by the traditional schist walls and other 19th century features. It has a Super-King or Twin single beds and French doors open onto the sunny Olivers’ courtyard.
The Stables – Coach House: This premier room with its rich interior has a Super-King or Twin single beds and a beautiful outlook taking in views up to the Clyde Village vineyard and opening onto Olivers’ secluded courtyard.
Hawkdun Rise Vineyard, Alexandra
Hawkdun Rise is a boutique vineyard-stay near the town of Alexandra in Central Otago. Enjoy comfortable, spacious accommodation surrounded by stunning landscapes in the heart of this beautiful wine region.
Guest Rooms
The two guest rooms have King beds, en-suites, TV, tea and coffee-making facilities and exterior doors to verandahs. The rooms overlook the vineyard, and your privacy is assured.
Pen-y-bryn Lodge, Oamaru
Housed in an 1889 Category-One listed historic home, Pen-y-bryn is a luxury lodge where up to ten guests enjoy the unparalleled elegance of a stately home steeped in the traditions of the real New Zealand.
The elegant guest rooms are individually decorated and feature 100% cotton bed linen, pure wool underlays, duvet and comfortable feather and down pillows. Monogrammed bathrobes, hand-embroidered face cloths, butlers’ tray with tea and coffee and lodge-baked biscuits, complimentary WiFi, hair dryers, valet accessories and a full range of quality New Zealand toiletries are also featured.
Enjoy the use of the historic billiard table or curl up in one of the many nooks with a book, wander through the manicured gardens, or just make yourself comfortable in front of a roaring fire with a glass of delicious local wine.
A proud member of the Slow Food Movement and the Chaîne des Rotisseurs (one of the world’s oldest gastronomical societies dedicated to the art of cooking), Pen-y-bryn prepares gourmet meals using local and sustainable produce that combines the riches of New Zealand ingredients with classic preparations for a gourmet treat!
Victoria Room, Main Lodge
The Victoria Room provides a sense of ‘a home away from home’. Located opposite the Elizabeth Room in the main lodge building, this guest room offers both striking oak furnishings and a superb King bed. Well positioned to take advantage of the afternoon sun, and with a great view across the Oamaru stone terrace and gardens, this room also provides year-round comfort,t thanks to climate control.
Elizabeth Room, Main Lodge
In keeping with the heritage of the house, this room is furnished with antique and period furniture and a sumptuous Queen bed. It provides year-round climate control with both air-conditioning and radiant heat ensuring the extremes of the Oamaru seasons are kept at bay. French doors lead to a private courtyard garden and the en-suite, originally the house’s sole bathroom, has the original large porcelain pedestal bath, complete with striking Victorian brass fittings.
Garden Room
The Garden Room is located on the upstairs level of the Oamaru stone ‘Annex’ building, and has views over the garden and surrounding area. The largest guest room, it comes complete with Super-King bed, separate sitting area and plenty of room to move and properly relax. The en-suite bathroom has a separate oversize bath and shower.
Park Room
This large room has beautiful timber flooring, Super-King bed that converts into twin King Singles. It has a sitting area with plenty of space to stretch out and kick back. The en-suite bathroom has a separate bath and shower. Located on the upstairs level within the ‘Annex’ building provides a peaceful view out over the extensive vegetable garden and on to neighbouring Awamoa Park.
Nest Room
On the upstairs level of the ‘Annex’ building, the Nest Room is one of the largest rooms, with a Super-King bed that converts into twin King Singles if required. You will enjoy views out over Oamaru and toward the Pacific Ocean. It has a sunken bedroom, a cosy sitting area and a well-appointed en-suite bathroom with oversize bath and shower.
Otago Rail Trail One Day Wonder Tour – Auripo to Alexandra, Clyde
The One Day Wonder Tour is perfect if you are short on time but want to experience the very best of the Central Otago Rail Trail. The Poolburn Gorge Section is undoubtedly one of the highlights of the Otago Central Rail Trail as it cuts through the Raggedy Range that separates the Manukerikia and Ida Valleys. Highlights of this section of the trail include the 37-metre high Poolburn Viaduct, two tunnels, the trail’s longest bridge and Central Otago’s stunning landscapes. You also have the option to take a side trip to historic Ophir before cycling down Tiger Hill to the Chatto Creek Tavern. Relax and refresh yourself at the Tavern, before being collected from here, or carry on to Alexandra, where you will be collected with your bike.
Duration: 6 Hours (including your transfer, bike hire on the latest Trek Roscoe 7, Avanti 27.5 Step thru bikes, helmet, dual density gel seat, cycle computer, pannier, tool kit, water bottle and mechanical support on the trail)
We're here to help
From assisting with your travel insurance and foreign currency to airport transfers, parking, marvellous accommodation and lounges. All Ways Tailormade are here to give you the experience of a lifetime and as stress-free as possible.
Stay in touch
Sign up to our newsletter for specials, news and updates
