Central Otago Attractions & Things to do

Experience a tasting journey through three of Central Otago’s incredibly scenic and varying wine sub-regions; Gibbston, Bannockburn and Cromwell.

Visit four boutique vineyards, tasting their unique cool climate wines and discover why the Central Otago region has become world-renowned in its own right.

Savour a delightful platter-style lunch made with locally sourced produce and accompanied by a flight of wines to taste. There may also be an opportunity to retrace history with a stroll through the charming historical settlement of Old Cromwell.

Learn about the early pioneering history and how the wine region was formed through an array of fun facts and interesting stories from your knowledgeable wine guide.

Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes.

Explore the Mt Cook area on this one day, fully guided small group tour from Queenstown with free time to participate in the best activities.

Highlights:
• Mt Cook & Aoraki National Park
• Lake Pukaki
• Kawarau Gorge, Lindis Pass, the Southern Alps
• High Country Salmon (time dependant )
• Free time for activities & walks

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.

You also have time to enjoy extra activities of your choice, unlike many other tours. On tours are led by our passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.
Duration: 13 hours.

This small group, fully-guided day trip combines all of the key highlights in the area with the famous Lake Tekapo, Mt Cook National Park and Tasman Glacier. The ultimate way to get from Christchurch to Queenstown and includes a picnic lunch. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

Highlights:

Lake Tekapo, Church of the Good Shepard
Mt Cook & Aoraki National Park
Tasman Glacier, Lake Pukaki
Lindis Pass, Kawarau Gorge

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.
Duration: 14 hours.

Queenstown to Christchurch via Mt Cook, this small group, fully-guided tour combines two of the most stunning locations in the South Island with the time and options to enjoy the activities, unlike other tours.

Highlights:
• Mt Cook & Aoraki National Park, free time for activities & walks
• Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki
• Church of the Good Shepherd, Lindis Pass and the Southern Alps

Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.
Duration: 14 hours.

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.

Mt Cook & Hooker Valley Hike Tour, this small group day trip combines all of the key highlights in the area with the famous Hooker Valley Hike. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

The Hooker Valley Hike is self guided, allowing you three hours to complete this incredible walk.
Duration: 12 hours.

In the heart of the South Island, New Zealand boasts its tallest peak, Aoraki Mount Cook, also known as the "Cloud Piercer." Nestled among the Southern Alps, above a small alpine town that is home to our longest glacier and many famous hiking tracks.

Embark on a one-day small-group tour to Mount Cook. Departing from Queenstown, you'll experience the unique alpine landscapes of the Southern Alps as you journey into Mackenzie Country and Aoraki Mount Cook National Park. Enjoy free time in Mt Cook Village, where you can choose to explore the incredible scenery, on a local short hike, scenic flight, or leisurely afternoon spent in the village.
Duration: 12 hours.

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.

Mt Cook Bus Tour & Heli Hike Combo, this small group, fully-guided day trip from Queenstown combines all of the key highlights of Mt Cook with a guided bus tour before an incredible Heli Hike on Tasman Glacier including two scenic helicopter flights.

Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.
Duration: 12 hours.

Experience an indulgent and diverse full day tour showcasing the very best sights and tastes from the Central Otago region. Let your experienced wine guide lead you on a tasting journey through three contrasting Central Otago wine sub-regions; Gibbston, Bannockburn and Cromwell.

Enjoy a guided tour through New Zealand’s largest underground wine cave and savour a unique lunch with 5 dishes cooked in retired oak barrels and perfectly matched with 5 wines.

You will also have an opportunity to retrace history with a visit to the historical settlements of Arrowtown, and Old Cromwell (when time permits). Learn about the early pioneering history and how the wine region was formed through an array of fun facts and interesting stories from your knowledgeable wine guide.

At the end of your tour you will be returned to your accommodation.

Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes.

Picturesque mountains, deep fiords and icy glaciers - this is New Zealand's South Island. See for yourself on a four-day independent tour highlighting this scenic region. Travel by coach from Christchurch to Queenstown via Lakes Tekapo and Pukaki and Mount Cook. From Queenstown enjoy a day tour to Milford Sound with a two hour nature cruise on the fiord. From Queenstown it is then a days travel up the West Coast to Franz Josef and Franz Josef Glacier. On the final day of the tour the journey takes you to Greymouth where you will board the TranzAlpine Train for your return to Christchurch.
Duration: 4 days.

Mt Cook Bus Tour & Ultimate Alpine Experience, this small group, fully guided bus tour to Mt Cook combines all of the key highlights of Mt Cook with scenic flights in a helicopter and a ski plane including a Tasman Glacier landing plus free time to do other optional activities of your choice. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.


Duration: 12 hours.

Explore the remarkable vineyards and stunning scenery throughout Central Otago and Wanaka.  You will taste gorgeous award winning wines from the little gems that are quietly making a big name for themselves while meeting some of the numerous characters that produce these wines.  You will be able to chat with the vineyard owners and wine makers. Your wine tour includes tastings at 4 vineyards, a gourmet mid-afternoon platter, and a knowledgeable friendly guide. This tour is for everyone whether you are a complete wine novice, or a dedicated wine connoisseur.
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes.

Queenstown to Christchurch via Mt Cook, this small group combines two of the most stunning locations!

Spend the day at Mount Cook Village, nestled in the shadow of Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain. Enjoy free reign to set your own schedule, whether it’s hiking around the Alps or learning more about the mountains at Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Center.

Enjoy stunning sights on the way up the mountains, including super-blue Lake Pukaki and the famous Lake Tekapo on the way towards Christchurch.

If you need tips on what to do in the village, your guide is on hand to help.

No-fuss hotel transfers are available from select Queenstown hotels.

Duration: 13 hours.

Two hour Top Hill Trek

This two-hour trek takes you through the breathtaking hills of Central Otago’s backcountry, where you’ll be treated to spectacular views of Lake Dunstan and the Mt Pisa range. This popular trek is perfect for all riding abilities and offers an unforgettable journey through picturesque fruit orchards and rolling hills.
Duration: 2 hours.

Our Taste Of Central Tour presents a chance for a remarkable tasting adventure. This tour is designed to discover three subregions of Central Otago, providing private tasting sessions showcasing award-winning local wines. It combines deep-rooted history with visits to iconic sites, and exclusive boutique vineyards.

Guests will travel in luxury, indulge in a gourmet lunch, and savour cheese boards alongside their tasting journey while exploring historical landmarks and picturesque locations.

Experience the beauty of Central Otago as you embark on a journey to explore three unique subregions. We visit boutique vineyards favoured by locals and sample a range of exceptional wines, from cool climate varietals to warmer selections. Discover the unique characteristics of each region and take in the breathtaking views spanning from Queenstown, the Kawarau Gorge, to the historic gold fields of Bannockburn and Cromwell.
Duration: 7 to 8 hours.

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.

Mt Cook & Hooker Valley Hike Tour, this small group, fully-guided day trip combines all of the key highlights in the area with the famous Hooker Valley Hike. Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.
Duration: 4 to 8 hours.

After complimentary accommodation pick-up, we will set off for the heart of Gibbston on a small private tour to visit four cellar doors and journey into the ‘valley of the vines’ to discover these vineyards nestled amongst the spectacular mountain ranges and dramatic river gorges.
Before we get to the first winery there will be a stop at a scenic location and travellers will learn about wine-tasting techniques and wine aromas while soaking up the fabulous views.
In one of the wineries, we will savour a vineyard platter or a cheese board to pair with the wines. There will be time for you to order more food if you think you need (at your own expense).
We will visit boutique wineries that are off the beaten path. There is no set routine, so every day is an adventure. The choice of the wineries visited will vary each day based on your individual group's dynamics. The overall focus is on high-quality wines as well as friendly and informative staff.
Duration: 6 hours.

A world-class tourism destination just 45 minutes from Queenstown Airport, Highlands Motorsport and Tourism Park is home to a range of exceptional experiences which are exciting for the whole family. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be looked after by their friendly team – treating you to some authentic kiwi hospitality!
Voted the #1 Thing to Do in Cromwell by TripAdvisor, Highlands – Experience the Exceptional is conveniently located along SH 6 in Cromwell in beautiful Central Otago. It’s a must do when you’re exploring the region – ideal for day trips because Highlands really does offer something fun and extraordinary for everyone.
So whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, in a group, or with family, Highlands is an NZ must-do for the ride of your lives.

Duration: 1 hour.

Explore the beautiful and famous Mt. Cook National Park while traveling to Tekapo on a fully guided small group tour from Queenstown. This is a 9 hour one way tour with free time in the middle of your journey to participate in the best activities. There is no better way to see the area!

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey, and the little details that set our tours apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments, and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.
Duration: 9 hours.

The Roxburgh Gorge Trail Experience is a purpose built Official NZ Great Ride (Grade 1 to 3) that follows the Clutha River. Alongside the Lake Dunstan Trail this is one of the ‘must do’ one day rides in Otago. Your self-guided ride explores the gold rush Gorge by bike and boat delivering an exceptional experience. Hosted by a Qualmark Gold accredited NZ Great Ride Official Partner who will sort out everything for you including bikes, boats and return transport. The jet boat/boat transfer cost ($155) is included in the package price. A covered boat is used in the cooler months replacing the jet boat.
Duration: 6 hours 15 minutes.

Take a break from the hectic Queenstown streets with this trip into the mighty Southern Alps. Spend the day at Mount Cook Village, nestled in the shadow of Aoraki Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest mountain. Enjoy free reign to set your own schedule, whether it’s hiking around the Alps or learning more about the mountains at Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Center.

Enjoy stunning sights on the way up the mountains, including super-blue Lake Pukaki

If you need tips on what to do in the village, your guide is on hand to help

Visit an alpine salmon farm where you can feed salmon and try some salmon snacks

No-fuss hotel transfers are available from select Queenstown hotels

Duration: 13 hours.

A world-class tourism destination just 45 minutes from Queenstown Airport, Highlands Motorsport and Tourism Park is home to a range of exceptional experiences which are exciting for the whole family. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be looked after by their friendly team – treating you to some authentic kiwi hospitality!

Voted the #1 Thing to Do in Cromwell by TripAdvisor, Highlands – Experience the Exceptional is conveniently located along SH 6 in Cromwell in beautiful Central Otago. It’s a must do when you’re exploring the region – ideal for day trips because Highlands really does offer something fun and extraordinary for everyone.

So whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, in a group, or with family, Highlands is an NZ must-do for the ride of your lives.

Duration: 15 minutes.

• Start from Cromwell and enjoy your leisurely ride to Clyde - shuttle transport included.
• Latest LLEVANT Electric Mountain Bikes and TREK Roscoe 7's Standard Mountain Bikes
• All bikes hired include helmets, rear carrier pannier bags with one person in each group receiving an emergency kit with spare tube, multi tool, tyre levers, quick link chain tool, new chain and first aid kit.
• Pre-Trip briefing
Duration: 4 to 5 hours.

A world-class tourism destination just 45 minutes from Queenstown Airport, Highlands Motorsport and Tourism Park is home to a range of exceptional experiences which are exciting for the whole family. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be looked after by their friendly team – treating you to some authentic kiwi hospitality!
Voted the #1 Thing to Do in Cromwell by TripAdvisor, Highlands – Experience the Exceptional is conveniently located along SH 6 in Cromwell in beautiful Central Otago. It’s a must do when you’re exploring the region – ideal for day trips because Highlands really does offer something fun and extraordinary for everyone.
So whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, in a group, or with family, Highlands is an NZ must-do for the ride of your lives.

Duration: 45 minutes.

Qualmark Accredited Cromwell Classic Car Wine Tours is unique among Central Otago wine-tasting tours. This is no whirlwind mini bus tour crammed with strangers but two to four friends, family, or associates traveling in a Classic Mercedes 300SE. The Cromwell Basin has a remarkable story largely untold, overshadowed on most wine bottles by two words-Central Otago. The fact is the Cromwell Basin has by far Central Otago's largest concentration of vineyards and wineries. Over 40 at last count. World-recognized Pinot Noir as well as excellent Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon plus many more. All are produced from vines growing in the schist soils of the Cromwell Basin
Duration: 4 to 5 hours.

This is our most diverse full-day tour private from Queenstown. With a taste of everything – sightseeing, shopping, history and food, it’s more comprehensive than any other Queenstown tour, perfect if you’re short on time or don’t want to be out driving every day. It’s also a loop tour so you’re never in the same place twice.

6 Regions : Arrowtown, Wanaka, Cromwell, Crown Range, Cardrona, Gibbston & Kawarau Gorge

13 Amazing Stops : LOTR & Bungy Bridge, Kawarau Gorge, Cromwell, 45th sign, Wanaka township, high view over Lake Wanaka, the Wanaka tree, bra fence, Cardrona Hotel, Crown Range, Crown Terrace and Arrowtown/Chinese Village.

Being a private tour you can contact us and we can customise the day for your wishes.

Duration: 8 hours.

This small group, fully-guided tour combines two of the most stunning locations in the South Island with the time and options to enjoy the activities, unlike other tours.

Highlights:
• Mt Cook & Aoraki National Park
• Lake Tekapo & Lake Pukaki
• Church of the Good Shepard, Lindis Pass, the Southern Alps and High Country Salmon
• Free time for activities & walks

Led by our famously passionate tour guides, notorious for bringing your journey to life by sharing their stories and rich background knowledge, and run in modern, comfortable minibuses packed with extras ensuring your comfort and safety.

While the destinations you will be visiting are truly spectacular, we at Cheeky Kiwi Travel believe it is our small groups, our guides, the journey and the little details that set our tours well apart. Secret stops, wildlife viewings, specially designed vehicles, complementary refreshments and many other pleasant surprises ensure our tours are an experience to remember.
Duration: 2 days.

A seven day independent tour exploring some of the best locations in New Zealand. This tour departs Auckland daily with six nights 4 - 4.5 star accommodation including two nights in Rotorua, one night in Wellington, one night in Kaikoura and two nights in Christchurch before concluding in Queenstown. Activities include city sights in Christchurch, whale watching in Kaikoura, travel on the Coastal Pacific Train (October - April) and Interislander Ferry, plus admission and guided tours of Whakarewarewa and the Waitomo Glowworm Caves.
Duration: 7 days.

Old Gold Trail, Arrowtown & Central Tour Tour
Gold Panning Included! Small group half day tour!

Travel by luxury vehicle with local guide while you follow in the footsteps of the incredible Gold Mining settlers who travelled to this region in search for Gold during the 1800's. Join us on a journey like no other and discover the rich history from the famous Gold Rush era around Arrowtown and Central Otago. Touch and feel real Gold and take in a Gold Panning experience, you may even feel real Gold for yourself! This is where the past and present meet.

Sit back and relax as we take you on a journey of discovery with our unique Story Telling themed for the ultimate experience. Hear our stories hundreds of years old and be transported to a different time and place in our history. themed GPS headsets will bring your experience to life

Duration: 4 hours.

Welcome to a Wine Lover's Paradise!

Join us as we embark on a wine tasting - sightseeing adventure like no other visiting wineries around Wanaka - Pisa - Cromwell - Bannockburn - Bendigo. It is a day full of new mates, scenic beauty, a beautiful gourmet lunch platter and some seriously good wine. Meet the winemakers who are pouring their passions and get an insider's look into everything that is involved in creating the perfect glass of wine from vineyard to bottle.
Living the Dream Tours is a wine tour company that encourages guests to unwind for an unforgettable day and let us do all the work.

It's not just a tour; it's a connection with the artisans who make the magic happen.


Duration: 7 hours.

• This private photography tour provides a flexible itinerary.

• Your guide holds the public liability insurance, first aid certification and Passenger Service license, which allows to carry and transport clients and are the legal requirements for running this kind of business safely.
All of this provides confidence and peace of mind to the clients that this local business offers only the high quality, safe and enjoyable experiences.
Duration: 8 hours.

• This private photo session provides a flexible itinerary.

• Your local photographer holds the public liability insurance, first aid certification and the Passenger Service license, which allows to carry and transport clients and are the legal requirements for running this kind of business safely.
All of this provides confidence and peace of mind to the clients that this local business offers only the high quality, safe and enjoyable experiences.
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.

The Lake Dunstan Cycleway is the most exciting thing to be added to the New Zealand Cycling landscape in a long time. This ride is an extension of the hugely popular Otago Rail Trail.

The Central Otago region is a beautiful place to visit on its own, but this new ride adds another element to your sightseeing and adventure activity.

This ride is not recommended for beginners or for riders that are not competent or confident on a bike. There are challenging sections and caution and common sense is required to really enjoy this fun day out.
Duration: 3 hours.

Experience South Island of New Zealand on this seven day independent coach tour. Travelling by coach and train through the specular South Island of New Zealand. Your journey commences in Christchurch travelling on day one to Greymouth on the world famous TranzAlpine Train and then by road to Franz Josef. Then by road up the rugged West Coast, via Haast Pass and Wanaka to Queenstown. You will have three nights in Queenstown and during your stay there you will visit Milford Sound and enjoy a nature cruise on the sound. You will also have a full free day to explore the township on your own or partake in one of the many activities that are on offer. From Queenstown you will travel by road to Dunedin where you will enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city plus a day tour out onto the Otago Peninsula for a visit to Larnach Castle and for a wildlife cruise on the harbour during your two night stay. On your final day you will return to Christchurch by road where your 7 day tour will conclude.
Duration: 7 days.

You will visit the most beautiful city called Dunedin. Dunedin has Scottish cultures and the history of first Scottish who settle down in Dunedin.
Also you can enjoy the beautiful nature of the Otago Harbor along the peninsula.

On the way to Dunedin, you can enjoy the early New Zealand cultures from British background in Oamaru as well.
Duration: 3 days.

Embark on a 5.5-hour private wine tour through the breathtaking landscapes of Central Otago, departing from Queenstown. Begin your journey in Gibbston, the “Valley of the Vines,” where you’ll explore picturesque vineyards and indulge in the region’s renowned cool-climate wines, with a special emphasis on the celebrated Pinot Noir. Continue to Bannockburn, a wine sub-region with a unique terroir that contributes to the exceptional flavors of its wines, particularly the renowned Pinot Noir. Immerse yourself in the rich history and stunning landscapes at the Cromwell Heritage Precinct, followed by a visit to Cromwell itself, where orchards, vineyards, and lakeside views provide a scenic backdrop for culinary and vinicultural exploration. Relish a curated lunch at one of the region’s top vineyards, savoring local flavors paired with exceptional wines. Throughout the tour, you’ll experience the diverse and distinctive offerings of Central Otago’s wine country.


Duration: 5 hours 30 minutes.

On this small group tour, we'll pick you up anywhere in Wanaka at your preferred time. We've created this trip due to high demand for an easy e-bike ride with a focus on wine and food. After a quick 20-minute orientation on the e-bike, you're ready to roll. We've got your back with first aid kits, maps, and a spare bike. While it's not guided, we're nearby if you need help. Explore food and drink options, enjoy the flat, wide trail – great for beginners. It's a 6-hour trip, with about 2 hours of easy biking. We take care of the driving so you can savor the wine in style. Just a short 35-minute ride from Wanaka takes you to the unique Bannockburn landscape and their superb Pinot Noirs.
Duration: 6 hours.

A world-class tourism destination just 45 minutes from Queenstown Airport, Highlands Motorsport and Tourism Park is home to a range of exceptional experiences which are exciting for the whole family. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be looked after by their friendly team – treating you to some authentic kiwi hospitality!
Voted the #1 Thing to Do in Cromwell by TripAdvisor, Highlands – Experience the Exceptional is conveniently located along SH 6 in Cromwell in beautiful Central Otago. It’s a must do when you’re exploring the region – ideal for day trips because Highlands really does offer something fun and extraordinary for everyone.
So whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, in a group, or with family, Highlands is an NZ must-do for the ride of your lives.

Duration: 15 minutes.

Highlights
Explore over 20 amazing stops throughout the Bannockburn, Cromwell and Gibbston Valley area

Visit some of the best wineries and breweries in the region!

Have the freedom to hop on and hop off at as many destinations as you like and stay as long as you like!

Some great special offers & discounts just for HOHO customers!

Knowledgeable local guides, free map, bus timetable and stress free experience!

We store your wines on the bus as you buy them.

Duration: 8 hours.

Discover the splendor of the NZ Southern Alps on this one-way sightseeing tour from Mount Cook. Relax on board your air-conditioned coach and admire the scenery as you depart in the afternoon from the alpine region of Mount Cook National Park. Choose to either travel North up to Christchurch or South down to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand!
Duration: 5 hours 20 minutes.

This tour has been the #1 bucket list New Zealand adventure tour since 2005 and includes skydiving, bungy jumping, heli biking, white water rafting, hiking, kayaking, rock climbing, jet boating, high ropes and cross country biking in the price! Also included are 10 nights of comfortable dbl/twin share ensuite accommodation in modern, centrally located 4* studio apartments, plus breakfast and lunch daily.

We deliver seamless, professional and fun once in a lifetime tours for visitors to NZ and our trips have been carefully planned to visit fantastic off-the-beaten-track locations as well as the spectacular must-visit destinations for which the South Island is famous.

Our guides are experienced and 100% dedicated to the needs of our clients who come from a wide range of ages and backgrounds. Our tours are typically made up from a mix of solo travellers, couples, and friends and we also frequently run this itinerary as a private option for small groups and families.
Duration: 10 days.

Immerse yourself in the heart of Central Otago wine country for a day to remember, in one of the world’s most scenic and southern wine regions!

Connect with your wine lovers in the ‘Valley of the Vines’ as you discover the unique flavours of Central Otago wines at a latitude of 45° south, an unforgettable experience.

Experience visiting four wineries/vineyards in the Gibbston Valley and Bannockburn sub-regions, plus journey inside New Zealand’s largest wine cave. Swirl, smell and savour over 16 wines including our famed Pinot Noir, cool climate whites, rosé and other varietals.

Beyond the grape, enjoy lunch at a winery restaurant lunch at your own expense with spectacular panoramic vineyard views overlooking the Bannockburn Inlet.

Travel in a luxurious Mercedes Sprinter through Pinot Country with your wine guide and Bella the wine tour dog.

Note: Bella the wine tour dog joins most of the tours unless she’s on a day off enjoying Queenstown.
Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes.

The name Maniototo, derived from Māori, is said to mean `plains of blood’ and refers to the `flowing’ red tussocks that cover the land.

This region inspires Graeme Sydney, painter of some of New Zealand’s most iconic landscapes. Home to tiny towns and locations that once swarmed with settlers, toiling to win riches from this sparse, rugged and graphic landscape.

Imposing mountain ranges edge the wide splendour of the Maniototo Plain. Candid skies of brilliant blue dance across the land. A tantalising magenta sunset slides behind flinty, tussock-clad ranges when evening falls.

Humble farming settlements are dotted thinly across the plain, huddled on long, straight roads that never end. Isolated they may be, but these are involved, connected communities where people look out for each other.

Steeped in nature’s rhythms, locals share an enduring bond with this place. The sweeping silent spaces, the contrasting hues of seasonal changes & the expansive beauty of starry black nights.
Duration: 3 days.

Our Wine Maker Experience - a rare opportunity to meet a winemaker from Central Otago. This exceptional opportunity allows you to stroll through the vineyards, explore the barrel halls and engage in personal conversations with an acclaimed winemaker and grower. Discover the vineyard, immerse yourself in the passion and learn the fascinating backstory behind the production of the wine from vine to bottle.

This experience is perfect for those eager to dive deeper into the contents of the bottle. Gain firsthand knowledge from award-winning winemakers and growers. Discover diverse terroirs within the vineyard, delve into the techniques employed and journey to various vineyard sections to learn about the soils where the vines thrive.
Duration: 6 to 8 hours.

Experience a six day independent coach tour of the scenic South Island of New Zealand. Travel by coach from Christchurch to Mount Cook and Queenstown and across to the city of Dunedin, before returning to Christchurch. The excursion includes a nature cruise in both Milford Sounds and on the Dunedin harbour as well as guided tour of Larnach Castle on the Otago Peninsula. this tour option includes 5 nights four star hotel accommodation ( 3 in Queenstown and 2 in Dunedin) as well as a full free day in Queenstown to explore on your own.
Duration: 6 days.

The Lake Dunstan Trail has you cycling through unique and fascinating landscapes of Central Otago, while following Lake Dunstan, the Kawarau River and the mighty Clutha River - linking townships Clyde to Cromwell on an awesome 1-day adventure.

Your adventure starts at our Cromwell depot, arriving about 8.30am for a briefing and bike fitting prior to taking our shuttle to Clyde departing at 9.15am. Upon arrival you may wish to enjoy a coffee at one of the many café/restaurants in the Clyde Heritage Precinct prior to starting your adventure.

We operate this adventure both ways, but we like this option as you are cycling on the inside of the trail (safer side) and you can cycle to Carrick Winery just in time to enjoy lunch and a glass of wine about 1pm, hence why we suggest this direction.
Duration: 8 hours.