Itinerary: Queenstown to Christchurch via Cromwell
Hot, dry climes cultivate golden fruits and award winning wines below tawny hills, where fine-wool Merino sheep graze. Wildflowers line roadsides, and powerful rivers cut awesome gorges to Lake Dunstan and the expanding town of
Cromwell.
Tarras, a small rural community at the head of Lake Dunstan, has a reputation for high quality Merino wool products.
Day One: Depart Queenstown mid-morning to Cromwell
New Zealand’s fastest growing wine region, Central Otago is the world’s southernmost wine production area, with many of its vineyards in gorgeous, dramatic settings. Although small, Central Otago is a rapidly developing wine growing region, with an international reputation for Pinot Noir.
Be treated to a journey of discovery at The Big Picture. Taste the fine wines of Central Otago, meet the winemakers and view the stunning scenery through the interactive wine film. Enjoy the local and Mediterranean flavours of the restaurant and the awe inspiring aromas of the Aroma Room. A world’s first in wine presentation designed to satisfy the interactive traveller.
Glimpse past goldmining at Carrick and Bendigo goldfields, and in nearby Bannockburn, a historic town, where sluicing has left its mark. Goldfields Mining Centre has an operational sluice gun, and opportunities to pan for gold. For a different view, take a spectacular jet boat ride on the mighty Kawarau River, through the heart of one of New Zealand’s most historic goldmining regions with Goldfields Jet.
The reconstructed buildings (including stables) of Old Cromwell Historic Precinct are today alive with artists at work. Wander through the buildings and watch the artists at work, taste the produce inspired by the abundance of Central Otago’s wonderful stonefruit from Provisions or sit and have a coffee at the Grain and Seed café.
Enjoy a fun and informative trip on Lake Dunstan with Cromwell Cruizez with knowledgeable hosts and stories about the area. Departs from Old Cromwell Town.
Day Two: Depart Cromwell late morning for Christchurch
For retail therapy stop at The Stables, Rocky Point Pottery just south of Tarras or The Merino Shop in Tarras for high quality Merino wool products.
Visit a High Country Merino Station on an up close and personal farm tour with Southern Lakes Spectrum (minimum of 8 pax). See farm dogs working in the yards, sheep shearing and meet the farm workers over a BBQ lunch.
Approximate drive times
Queenstown to Cromwell 40 min (SH6)
Cromwell to Tarras 15 min (SH8)
Tarras to Christchurch 5 hours (SH8)