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.