World · 26 Places · Best Year-round
Otago is a dramatic and diverse region in the South Island of New Zealand, stretching from the Pacific coastline near Dunedin across the rugged Central Otago highlands to the alpine lakes and mountains around Queenstown and Wanaka. It is one of New Zealand's most iconic and visited destinations, blending world-class adventure sports, wildlife encounters, gold rush history, and award-winning wine production.
Otago spans from the Pacific Ocean coastline to the Southern Alps, encompassing an extraordinary variety of landscapes. Queenstown, the self-proclaimed adventure capital of the world, sits on the shores of Lake Wakatipu surrounded by the Remarkables mountain range and offers bungee jumping, skydiving, jet boating, and skiing. Dunedin, the regional capital, is a vibrant university city with a proud Scottish heritage, stunning wildlife on the Otago Peninsula, and the famous Baldwin Street. Wanaka provides a quieter alpine retreat on the shores of a magnificent lake. Central Otago is New Zealand's premier wine region, producing world-class Pinot Noir, and the area's gold rush history can be traced through heritage towns like Clyde, Cromwell, and Naseby.
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
The 26 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
The world's first commercial bungy jumping site, perched 43 meters above the turquoise Kawarau River. Opened in 1988 by AJ Hackett, this iconic experience lets visitors leap from the historic Kawarau Bridge while watching the action from a free viewing platform below.
Ride the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere to Bob's Peak for panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and The Remarkables. At the top enjoy the luge track, zipline, bungy, stargazing, and a buffet restaurant.
New Zealand's most famous jet boat ride speeds through the narrow Shotover River canyon at 85 km/h, performing thrilling 360-degree spins centimeters from the canyon walls. The Shotover River canyon is one of the most spectacular gorges in New Zealand.
The Otago Peninsula is one of the world's most accessible wildlife sites, home to the world's only mainland royal albatross colony at Taiaroa Head, yellow-eyed penguins (hoiho), little blue penguins, New Zealand sea lions, and fur seals.
One of only two ski fields in the world directly above a major tourist town, The Remarkables overlooks Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu with dramatic alpine scenery. Suitable for beginners through experts with terrain parks, off-piste runs, and ski school.
One of New Zealand's nine Great Walks, the Routeburn Track traverses through Mount Aspiring National Park and Fiordland National Park over 32 km. Stunning alpine scenery includes hanging valleys, mountain tarns, and spectacular views across the Harris Saddle.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
One of Australasia's most celebrated boutique hotels, Eichardt's occupies a landmark Victorian building right on the Queenstown waterfront. Each of the five suites and penthouses is individually designed with hand-crafted furnishings, open fireplaces, and stunning lake views.
A five-star lakefront hotel with spectacular views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables, just a short drive from central Queenstown. The Rees combines luxury rooms and self-contained apartments with the acclaimed Rees Restaurant and an indulgent day spa.
An ultra-exclusive wilderness lodge on the shores of Lake Wakatipu near Glenorchy, Blanket Bay is consistently rated among the world's best lodges. Guests have access to the private beach, helicopter excursions, fishing, and gourmet dining with exceptional wine lists.
Nine private villas perched on a hillside above Queenstown with panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu and the surrounding mountains. Each villa features floor-to-ceiling windows, a private hot tub, fireplace, and butler service.
Cafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
A premier Queenstown steakhouse in a stunning lakefront location, Botswana Butchery specializes in premium New Zealand beef and lamb with an extensive wine list featuring the best of Central Otago Pinot Noir.
Celebrity chef Josh Emett's flagship Queenstown restaurant, Rata showcases premium New Zealand produce with inventive contemporary techniques. Set in a beautiful heritage building with an open kitchen.
The Amisfield Bistro offers a legendary Trust the Chef degustation lunch menu perfectly paired with their award-winning Central Otago wines. Set overlooking the vineyards and lake, the experience is quintessential Otago.
Queenstown's most famous eating institution—enormous, fresh gourmet burgers made with New Zealand beef, free-range chicken, and local produce. Open nearly all night, queues are part of the experience.
A Queenstown institution for over 40 years, The Cow is a tiny, cave-like restaurant in a stone building serving wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta. The cramped atmosphere and blazing open fire make it cozy and memorable.
A waterfront bar and restaurant specializing in grilled meats, craft beers, and classic cocktails. The outdoor terrace has excellent views over Lake Wakatipu and is perfect for a sunny afternoon.
Otago is spread across a large area and a car or campervan is the best way to explore the region fully. Queenstown has good airport connections and some inter-city bus services, but many key attractions require private transport. Driving is on the left-hand side of the road.
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15-40 | $50-120 | $150+ |
| Food (per day) | $10-25 | $30-60 | $80+ |
| Transportation | $5-15 | $20-50 | $75+ |
| Activities | $5-15 | $20-50 | $75+ |
| Daily total | $50-100 | $100-200 | $300+ |
Citizens of Australia, UK, USA, Canada, and many European nations can visit New Zealand visa-free for up to 90 days. All other visitors require a visa or New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA). New Zealand maintains a departure tax included in most airfares. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in Otago is the New Zealand Dollar (NZD). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Otago: English, Māori. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in Otago include AJ Hackett Kawarau Bungy, Queenstown Skyline Gondola & Luge, Shotover Jet, Otago Peninsula Wildlife Encounters, and The Remarkables Ski Area. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
