Location: Arrowtown
Top Things to do in Arrowtown
10 Free Things to do in Arrowtown That You Shouldn't Miss
Arrowtown is an historic gold mining town in the Otago region of the South Island of New Zealand. Arrowtown is located on the banks of the Arrow River approximately 7.5 km from State Highway 6. There is also road access directly to Queenstown via the Shotover Gorge and a third route via the picturesque Lake Hayes.
Restaurants in Arrowtown
1. Arrowtown Wine Store
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 9 reviews
We are passionate about what we sell, whether you are after wine (local, national or international), beer (craft, ale, lager, or fill-your-own riggers), spirits or delicious gourmet deli foods, we can help you find just what you are after or assist you in
2. The Stitching Post
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 10 reviews
The Stitching Post is a Patchwork and Wool shop located in the quaint, historic town of Arrowtown. We have a large range of New Zealand made wools, and 100% cotton fabrics with NZ designs. Also, books, patterns and tools.
Reviewed By 606sylviah
We loved this little town ,seemed we back in cowboy days ,Absolutley charming . Lovely shops and I found to my delight a Quilting shopwhere I spent quite a lot of money
3. A Little Something
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 26 reviews
Local gifts, arts and crafts and the home of Gold Panning in Arrowtown. A Little Something, formerly Honey & Cocoa, collate together the best locally made crafts and goods such as local jewellery, art, ceramics, cards, balms, nut butters and honey- with excellent New Zealand products such as Merino Kids and Matakana Botanicals. We also stock Arrowtown essentials here such as Moana Rd Sunglasses and NZ made insect repellent and sunblock. A must when you hit the rivers looking for gold. A Little Something has hands on gold panning tutorials outside the store, then hire some gear and spend the afternoon in one of the most picturesque locations in the world. Will you find gold?
Reviewed By 632kelseyn
Ordered online, received very quickly, and extremely satisfied with the 950 MGO manuka honey. Trustworthy information and wonderful product! Looking forward to planning a trip so that I can visit the store in person.
4. Arrowtown Village
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,627 reviews
Arrowtown’s surprises at every corner with new activities, restaurants, cafes and accommodation options. You don’t have to dig far in this sophisticated, yet quaint village to find why this charming town oozes heritage whether the newly restored miner’s cottages, the latest exhibit at the Lakes District Museum or the magnificent trails. Arrowtown is renowned for its café and restaurant culture. Whether fine dining, or enjoying a casual pizza or pie, there are delicious options for every budget and time span. Boutique beers and local wines are just some of the beverages on offer. Arrowtown’s tree lined streets, shops and cafes housed in original buildings and its proximity to walking /cycling tracks, vineyards, golf courses and ski fields, make it a must visit destination. Arrowtown sits only 20 minutes from Queenstown and a mere 15 minutes from Queenstown airport.
Reviewed By carolep957 - Ringwood, Australia
This is a delightful old gold mining town, lovingly maintained, full of history, a few usual gift shops for tourists and within easy drive of Queenstown. We also happened upon the old gaol by accident, driving around and loved the row of miners cottages along main street. In one of the gift shops in the little shopping arcade we met a fellow countrywoman from Bradford in the UK and enjoyed a lovely chat with her. Highly recommend spending a couple of hours at least in this charming place. The Chinese settlement is interesting too and there is a museum in town worth a look.
5. Off The Wall gallery & store
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 27 reviews
6. Lake Hayes Walkway
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 199 reviews
Always check the website for changes that might affect your trip.
Reviewed By 759elib - Sydney, Australia
Lovely sits in quiet isolation, reflecting the neighbouring hills in its placid waters. If you crave an unchallenging two-hour walk, the 8km bike-friendly pathway loops right around it
7. Bush Creek Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 33 reviews
This is a new walking track for medium to fit walkers. It takes you through native forests, similar to the Routeburn track. There is a stream running throughout and it's beautiful. It is still in the making but the track well formed as far as it goes. Takes about 1-2 hours return. One of the best around and easy access.
Reviewed By Val063
If you're not an intrepid trekker or big track walker, go walking the Bush Creek Trail. Park your car in the car park below the Arrowtown shops and walk alongside the bubbling creek amongst the trees. Take a picnic, or some yummy food from the Bakery, and enjoy the peace.
8. Tobins Track
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 82 reviews
Reviewed By ashevillefab5 - Asheville, United States
Lovely walk along the river near downtown, then up the hill on Torins track. Its not a steep incline, as it is a gravel road, but it is uphill the whole way. Gorgeous view over the valley when you get to the top. Also saw mountain bikers and runners. You can keep going and get to Karawhau gorge. We hit this on the day of a big mountainbiking/triathalon which was fun!
9. The Blue Door Arrowtown
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 106 reviews
Reviewed By debral517 - Auckland, New Zealand
Fabulous place for a pre-dinner drink. Try one of the house speciality cocktails- you won’t be disappointed! Will definitely be searching out the blood door on our next visit.
10. Remarkable Sweet Shop - Arrowtown
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 106 reviews
Established in 2004, Remarkable Sweet Shop offers three exciting stores; historic Arrowtown, stunning central Queenstown and Queenstown Airport - each offering their own unique personality and flare. Our traditional sweet shops (Queenstown, Arrowtown, Queenstown Airport) are famous as a destination for our floor-to-ceiling extravaganza of imported and local sweets and chocolates, homemade fudge and nougat; and exceptional service and interaction with our specialist staff, who offer free fudge tastings to everyone.
Reviewed By ShelleyM512 - Albany, New Zealand
Like a kid in a candy store. This did not disappoint. They offer samples of the fudge to try and have a huge range to suit everyone. Lots of other types of lolly available too, very hard to choose. The staff were really lovely and we couldn't help but come out with a box of fudge in 4 flavours. Lasts a long time too. They also have a store in Queenstown and at the airport which was cool. Makes a really nice gift for family and friends.
