10 Day Trips from in Central Otago That You Shouldn't Miss

August 4, 2021 Marissa Gamble

Discover the best top things to do in Central Otago, New Zealand including Gibbston Half-Day Private Wine Tour with Hotel Pickup, Gourmet Food and Wine Tour From Queenstown with Lunch Included, Full-Day Roxburgh Gorge Cycle Tour from Queenstown, Arrowtown and Wanaka Premium Tour from Queenstown, Exclusive Central Otago Wine Tour - Departs Queenstown, Central Otago Wine Tour from Queenstown - Includes 4 Vineyards, Lunch & Wine, Heli Jeep Wine Tour from Cromwell, Central Otago, Heli Jeep Wine Tour from Queenstown, Central Otago, Best of the Locals - Wine Tour, Heli Jeep Wine Tour from Wanaka, Central Otago.
Restaurants in Central Otago

1. Gibbston Half-Day Private Wine Tour with Hotel Pickup

Queenstown Winery Tours
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 7 reviews

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.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned vehicle, Bottled water, Tasting of up to 20 of the best of Central Otago wines in all the wineries visited, Shared cheese platter, Professional photos

Exclusions: Lunch, Gratuities

Reviewed By Pioneer615939

Susana was a great guide, very friendly and knowledgeable. The choice of wineries was excellent. Vety good value for money.

2. Gourmet Food and Wine Tour From Queenstown with Lunch Included

Appellation Wine Tours
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

4.9 based on 114 reviews

An indulgent and varied full-day tour seeing local sights, enjoying fresh cuisine and tasting a selection of fine wines, cheeses and handcrafted chocolates. Taste wines at 4 premium vineyards over 2 Central Otago wine regions. Included is the Gibbston Valley Wine Cave Tour, a splendid cheese and wine presentation and a divine local cuisine lunch. Visit the historic precinct of Old Cromwell and return to Queenstown via the must-see Arrowtown with time to take a stroll and sample locally made chocolates at one's leisure.... and step back in time to the gold rush, exploring heritage buildings!  To ensure an intimate experience with other wine lovers, numbers are limited to 12 people on the tour.

Inclusions: An exquisite lunch consisting of 5 dishes cooked in retired oak barrels and matched with wines., Wine tastings at 4 vineyards over 2 contrasting wine sub-regions, Knowledgeable Wine Guide with fascinating commentary, Transport by luxury vehicle, Courtesy hotel pickup and drop-off (write to us if yours is not listed)., Enjoy a lovely cheese platter at one of the vineyards, and take home artisan chocolates.

Exclusions: Gratuities, Alcoholic drinks or wine purchases (available to purchase)

Reviewed By JudeCatherwood

Great tour and great tour guide (Logan). We went to wineries I would not have considered visiting and they were all awesome. We had great receptions at each place. Domain Road was our favourite.

3. Full-Day Roxburgh Gorge Cycle Tour from Queenstown

Trail Journeys
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

4.9 based on 18 reviews

This full-day cycle adventure on the Roxburgh Gorge Trail not only has some amazing cycling but also includes a fun and informative jet boat ride on the Clutha River from Doctors Point to Shingle Creek. Cycling on the Roxburgh Gorge Trail is a bit steeper so prepare yourself for some exciting climbs and downhills. Although the trail is a bit challenging, the views and scenery make it well worth the extra effort. A moderate or modest level of cycling ability is required.

Inclusions: Bicycle and helmet, Hotel pickup and drop-off from Queenstown, Transport Clyde to Roxburgh to start cycling, Transport by air-conditioned Van, All taxes, fees and handling charges, Boat Transfer from Shingle Creek to Doctors Point

Exclusions: Lunch and Snacks (unless booked as optional extra $30.00 per person)

Reviewed By Holiday_from_cows

We hired e-bikes from Trail Journeys in Clyde to ride the Roxburgh Gorge Trail. The Trail was fabulous but the bikes were pretty average. We both do a lot of riding but we found these bikes uncomfortable to ride. The wheels were narrow compared to a mountain bike so were a little slidey on the loose gravel and my arms & rear end were sore by the end from all the jarring. Wouldn't hire from here again.

4. Arrowtown and Wanaka Premium Tour from Queenstown

Remarkable Scenic Tours
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

4.9 based on 56 reviews

The Original and top rated Arrowtown & Wanaka Small Group Full Day Tour. This tour has been the top rated small group experience of this type for the last five years. 6 Regions : Arrowtown, Wanaka, Cromwell, Crown Range, Cardrona, Gibbston & Kawarau Gorge 13 Amazing Stops : LOTR & Bungy Bridge, Kawarau Gorge, Fruit Tasting, 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. Small group tour to Arrowtown, Wanaka plus much much more. We provide fun interesting commentary, help with your photos and give great recommendations for everything from lunch to shopping. Being the top rated and original Arrowtown & Wanaka small group tour your day is going to be amazing. The best way to see the region is with a fun local guide.  Morning refreshments and an a afternoon beverage included. Please note this tour is not suitable for children under 5 years old.

Inclusions: Fun Local Guide, Morning refreshments in a cafe including a hot drink and snack, Cardrona ale or a non alcoholic Ginger beer at the Cardrona Hotel, Air-conditioned vehicle

Exclusions: Lunch, No children under five

Reviewed By Merrycoco

Our guide Wayne was excellent. It was our first time at Arrowtown and Wanaka. Although it was a small group tour, the tour was very thorough, making sure we had the best experience at every scenic spot. Great commentary and thank you for showing us the best angles/poses for photos at each stop! We also appreciate the tips for best local restaurants and cafes around town - we actually tried one of the cafes for our last day, and it was great! :) Thank you so much

5. Exclusive Central Otago Wine Tour - Departs Queenstown

Appellation Wine Tours
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

4.9 based on 13 reviews

For the more discerning wine lover, or simply people who prefer the flexibility of a private tour.  Join one of our trained wine guides on a wine tasting journey to some of New Zealand's most memorable vineyards, at your own pace. Our local knowledge and familiarity with the vineyards of Central Otago is at your disposal for an intimate half or full day's wine experience in a thriving wine region.  Packages are tailor made for you, and we encourage you to advise us of any varietal or vineyard preferences when booking.

Inclusions: Match a glass of wine with your lunch, Wine tastings at a selected number of vineyards stated on each tour type, Bottled water, Knowledgeable Driver Guide with fascinating commentary, Courtesy hotel/port pick-up & drop-off (please contact us if yours is not listed).

Exclusions: Extra alcoholic drinks or wine purchases (available to purchase), Gratuities

Reviewed By karmynb2021

I thoroughly enjoyed the tour which included a jetboat and then the winery tour with Martin. It was a great day and I would highly recommend it. The jet boat was so much fun. Then the winery tour was excellent. The tour guide was friendly and very informative. The vehicle was comfortable. The wineries were lovely and the selection of wines and local expertise was excellent too. We had a good group of us on the tour too. Thank you once again for a lovely tour and all the best for what is hopefully a better year for your business than 2020 was. Kind regards, Karmyn Billing

6. Central Otago Wine Tour from Queenstown - Includes 4 Vineyards, Lunch & Wine

Appellation Wine Tours
Excellent
0%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
100%
Overall Ratings

4.8 based on 259 reviews

Experience the beauty of Central Otago, its fine wines, rich gold history and welcoming people. This tour will take you to visit two of Central Otago's wine sub-regions, allowing you to taste the difference! Visit 4 vineyards, enjoying tastings at three vineyards and then indulge in a light platter lunch with a glass of premium wine at a fourth vineyard.

Inclusions: All wine tastings, Local guide, Air-conditioned vehicle, Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only), Light platter lunch & glass of premium wine

Exclusions: Gratuities, Food and drinks, unless specified

Reviewed By dan_fell_nz

Our tour guide, Gary, was so knowledgeable and friendly! Would recommend to anyone visiting Queenstown!

7. Heli Jeep Wine Tour from Cromwell, Central Otago

Heliview Flights

The package includes: Wine tasting at six Cromwell Basin Vineyards A 45 minute Private helicopter flight over the Cromwell Basin vineyards including an alpine landing en route Exclusive Vineyard experiences, Winery lunch and wine tastings Chauffeured Open-Top Jeep to travel between vineyards during the day Transport from and to your Cromwell Basin accommodation An all-day tour with a boutique family business. Personalised service guaranteed.

Inclusions: A 2 coures a la carte lunch at Mt Difficulty Winery with a gls of Bannockburn Estate wine per person, Scenic helicopter flight over the Cromwell Basin with Alpine Landing, Landing and facility fees, All wine tasting fees at individual wineries as stated in the itinerary, Chauffeured open-top Jeep to travel between vineyards during the day, Cloudy Bay Winery: a private wine tasting experience with a Cloudy Bay Ambassador, Tannacrieff Winery: a behind the scenes experience of a boutique winery, followed by a tasting, Scott Base Winery: taste a “Flight of 5 Wines” from the whiteboard options, Ceres Winery: wine tasting and a look through Odelle Morshuis' onsite art gallery, Te Kano Winery: private wine tasting and vineyard tour

Exclusions: Individual bottle puchases at each winery, wineries will post purchases as requested (to be organised at time of purchase with each winery), Wineries may be substituted without notice due to availability or vineyard workflow restrictions.

Reviewed By NikkiMurray72

My 3 kids and I had a fantastic helicopter experience with Richard and Yolanda. All dealings with Yolanda leading up to the day were friendly and professional and the flight itself was amazing. Great views and really interesting commentary from Richard along the way. It was awesome to be able to get out and have a snowball fight on the mountain. A real highlight for us and great to have it captured on camera. Overall a great experience.

8. Heli Jeep Wine Tour from Queenstown, Central Otago

Heliview Flights

The package includes: Wine tasting at six Cromwell Basin Vineyards Private helicopter flight over the Cromwell Basin vineyards including an alpine landing en route Exclusive Vineyard experiences, Winery lunch and wine tastings Chauffeured Open-Top Jeep to travel between vineyards during the day Transport from and to your Queenstown accommodation An all-day tour with a boutique family business. Personalised service guaranteed.

Inclusions: All wine tasting fees at individual wineries as stated in the itinerary, Mt Rosa Wines: wine tasting experience and a great last stop and a good laugh with the owners., Chauffeured open-top Jeep to travel between vineyards during the day, Cloudy Bay Winery: a private wine tasting experience with a Cloudy Bay Ambassador, A 2 coures a la carte lunch at Mt Difficulty Winery with a gls of Bannockburn Estate wine per person, Scenic helicopter flight over the Cromwell Basin with Alpine Landing, Scott Base Winery: taste a “Flight of 5 Wines” from the whiteboard options, Landing and facility fees, Gibbston Valley Winery: private wine tasting, wine cave and winery tour, light nibbles, Misha's Vineyard and Tasting Room: taste 5 wines from the 12 wines on offer., Private luxury vehicle pickup and dropoff from your Queenstown accommodation., Scenic helicopter flight from the Cromwell Basin through the Kawarau Gorge to Gibbston

Exclusions: Wineries may be substituted without notice due to availability or vineyard workflow restrictions., Individual bottle puchases at each winery, wineries will post purchases as requested (to be organised at time of purchase with each winery)

Reviewed By NikkiMurray72

My 3 kids and I had a fantastic helicopter experience with Richard and Yolanda. All dealings with Yolanda leading up to the day were friendly and professional and the flight itself was amazing. Great views and really interesting commentary from Richard along the way. It was awesome to be able to get out and have a snowball fight on the mountain. A real highlight for us and great to have it captured on camera. Overall a great experience.

9. Best of the Locals - Wine Tour

New Zealand Wine Tours

Our tour brings together the best of our favorite local wineries to showcase the best wines Central Otago has to offer as well as the hospitable and welcoming families behind them

Inclusions: Snacks, Lunch, Bottled water, Air-conditioned vehicle, Expert Local Wine Guide, Accommodation pick up/drop off

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By AllieJarratt

Really great tour, fabulous to see some of the smaller vineyards that we may otherwise not have visited. Our tour guide and driver Paul was a lovely guy, knowledgeable and excellent company. Cheese platter and glass of wine at Kinross was delicious.

10. Heli Jeep Wine Tour from Wanaka, Central Otago

Heliview Flights

The package includes: Wine tasting at six Cromwell Basin Vineyards Private helicopter flight over the Cromwell Basin vineyards including an alpine landing en route Exclusive Vineyard experiences, Winery lunch and wine tastings Chauffeured Open-Top Jeep to travel between vineyards during the day Transport from and to your Wanaka accommodation An all-day tour with a boutique family business. Personalised service guaranteed.

Inclusions: All wine tasting fees at individual wineries as stated in the itinerary, Chauffeured open-top Jeep to travel between vineyards during the day, Cloudy Bay Winery: a private wine tasting experience with a Cloudy Bay Ambassador, A 2 coures a la carte lunch at Mt Difficulty Winery with a gls of Bannockburn Estate wine per person, Rippon Winery: private wine tasting overlooking Lake Wanaka., Misha's Vineyard and Tasting Room: taste 5 wines from the 12 wines on offer., Maude Wines: wine tasting experience in an intimate setting, Private luxury vehicle pickup and dropoff from your Wanaka accommodation., Scenic helicopter flight from the Cromwell Basin through the Kawarau Gorge to Gibbston, Scenic helicopter flight over the Cromwell Basin with Alpine Landing, Scott Base Winery: taste a “Flight of 5 Wines” from the whiteboard options, Landing and facility fees

Exclusions: Wineries may be substituted without notice due to availability or vineyard workflow restrictions., Individual bottle puchases at each winery, wineries will post purchases as requested (to be organised at time of purchase with each winery)

Reviewed By NikkiMurray72

My 3 kids and I had a fantastic helicopter experience with Richard and Yolanda. All dealings with Yolanda leading up to the day were friendly and professional and the flight itself was amazing. Great views and really interesting commentary from Richard along the way. It was awesome to be able to get out and have a snowball fight on the mountain. A real highlight for us and great to have it captured on camera. Overall a great experience.

ThingsTodoPost © 2018 - 2024 All rights reserved.