Queenstown
Attractions
Kyeburn Diggings - Gold was found here in 1861. One of the few reminders of
the settlement is the Upper Kyeburn Cemetery, which sits silently alongside
the road with plot prices displayed.
Ranfurly - Named after the fifth Earl of Ranfurly, the 15th Governor General
of New Zealand. After a spate of arson in the area, many of the buildings
were rebuilt in the art deco style.
Naseby - The township of Naseby is one of Otago's most charming gold rush
settlements. It has a wealth of surviving Victorian architecture, and some
interesting historic buildings constructed from adobe (sun-dried mud brick).
St Bathans - The tiny township of St Bathans once had a population of 2000.
In its heyday, it also had 13 hotels. The adobe buildings, notably the Vulcan
Hotel, reflect a theme common throughout Central Otago.
Omakau, Ophir - These settlements provide accommodation for those who are
walking or riding the Otago Central Rail Trail, which begins in Clyde. Ophir
recorded the coldest temperature ever in New Zealand (-20°C).
Roxburgh - With any luck, you'll arrive in Roxburgh during the fruit season
(November to March). This town serves the local orchardists, who produce fabulous
apricots, nectarines, peaches, plums, apples, pears, strawberries and cherries.
Gorge Creek Monument - This monument commemorates an unknown number of gold
miners who perished in the 1863 snows on the Old Man Range.
Clyde - Clyde rests at the foot of an immense, crooked gorge - once a severe
test of courage for gold miners making their way west. Burgundy grape varieties
thrive here and local vineyards produce award-winning Pinot Noir.
Otago Central Rail Trail - This trail follows the former Otago Central Branch
railway line for 150 kilometres from Clyde to Middlemarch. It has been developed
as a recreational facility for walkers, cyclists and horse riders.
Carricktown - The Carrick Range and goldfields are south of Bannockburn and
can be reached at the end of Schoolhouse Road, near the old mining area of
Quartzville.
Cromwell - Be sure to visit Old Cromwell, a collection of reconstructed buildings
from Cromwell's past. Explore the mining village at the entrance to the Kawarau
Gorge.
Roaring Meg - The Otago Central Power Board constructed the Roaring Meg power
station during the 1930s. The pipeline is 2.5 kilometres long with a fall
of 300 metres.
Gibbston Valley - Look for vineyards as you drive along the valley. This wine-growing
area is known for Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay. Gourmet cheese is
another temptation.
Kawarau Bridge - Originally built to link Queenstown to Central Otago during
the gold rush, this historic bridge is the site of the world's first bungy
jumping enterprise.
Arrowtown - Gold was discovered in the Arrow River in 1862. The discovery
remained quiet for a short time, but gradually miners gravitated to the area.
Eventually Arrowtown's population rose to over 7000.
Lake Hayes - This is a picturesque lake, particularly in autumn. There are
wineries nearby and the lake is great for swimming and fishing.
Lindis Pass - The dramatic Lindis Pass links the Mackenzie Basin with Central
Otago. It's one of the most photographed places in New Zealand, particularly
after a fresh snow fall.
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