CENTRAL OTAGO AWAITS
As we delve deeper into the winter months, the brave amongst us face the chill-factor front on and embrace all things arctic. Weekend excursions for skiing and adventure sports are ideally suited to the region of Central Otago.
From the far reaches of Lake Hawea, right down to the stark landscape of Bannockburn Sluicings, to the famed cobbled streets of Queenstown and the thrill of thriving Wanaka – you’ve got a perfect Aotearoa destination to live out your winter getaway.
Avenues sets off on a chilly course, taking us through the icy arcadia; Central Otago.
THE REES HOTEL
Wake up with Lake Wakatipu on your doorstep in an exclusive, five-star experience. The Rees Hotel Queenstown is quiet, private, and sophisticated, meaning you can spend time in its library, or catch a sunrise on the private beach, or take a dip off its wharf if you dare! From three-bedroom apartments to classic hotel room options, there’s a space to suit all.
NEVIS HIGHWIRE
For the daredevil at heart, you can’t go past a visit to Queenstown’s Nevis Highwire Platform. The bungy – notoriously quoted as ‘definitely putting the cement in your coffee’ – will give you 134 metres of freefall with the most perfect view, if you can manage to keep your eyes open!
MILFORD GALLERY
Milford Gallery in Queenstown showcases many significant works from New Zealand contemporary artists. Located close to the lakeside, and not far from the botanical gardens, the main downstairs gallery allows for the installation of a large number of works while maintaining an intimate gallery experience.
BEN LOMOND SADDLE
A mere few minutes from Queenstown, you can begin a trek to magnificent lake and mountain views. The saddle does require an advanced level of fitness, as the last push is very steep, but the top rewards you with exceptional views and on clear days, you can spot Pikirakatahi (Mount Earnslaw) and Tititea (Mount Aspiring).
CHARD FARM
Since the late ’80s, the family behind Chard Farm have produced top-tier ‘cool climate’ wines. With five vineyards from Cromwell to Gibbston, they specialise in single-vineyard Pinot Noirs. Their winemaking philosophy is that people enjoy drinking interesting wines, rather than tasting special wines. Wines are ‘to be enjoyed with food, conversation, and contemplation’.
JACK’S POINT GOLF
With a backdrop of 2300 vertical metres of the Remarkables mountain range and an armchair view of an outstanding lake panoramas,
Jack’s Point Golf course is one of the most visually spectacular in the world. As an 18 hole par 72 championship course, it provides all golfers an unforgettable golf experience.
NOMAD 4WD SAFARIS
Nomad Safaris 4WD tours encompass everything from Lord of the Rings tours to historical gold mining tours. The tours explore locations around the Wakatipu basin, including Arrowtown, Glenorchy, and Paradise as well as backcountry locations such as Skippers Canyon and Macetown. Best of all, Nomad is actively involved in the care and preservation of heritage areas.
UNDERDOG SLED TOURS
You can experience the thrill of a sled dog team running through the high trails of the Southern Alps. With a mix of Alaskan and Siberian huskies and a couple of Alaskan Malamutes, the tours are run through the stunning trails provided by the Snow Farm, Cardrona. Just you, a dog team, and trails to explore.
CRUISE LAKE WANAKA
Why not have an adventure on the water with a cruise to one of Wanaka’s hidden attractions? Cruise to a deserted island
and take a guided walk to the summit for outstanding views. A lake cruise will immerse you in the exceptional natural beauty that can only be experienced by boat.
#THATWANAKATREE
Roys Bay is the home to #ThatWanakaTree, a photography phenomenon that inspires visitors from around the world. This humble solo Willow tree started life 70 years ago as a fence post and is quite possibly one of the most famous lone trees in the world.
PUZZLING WORLD
Since the early ’70s, Puzzling World has been messing with people’s heads! With a mix of bizarre buildings, rooms of illusion, and the world-famous ‘Great Maze’, this attraction is designed to baffle your brain and challenge your perceptions of reality. Your world will never be the same again...
ALCHEMY
Touted as the ‘café locals patronise’, Ardmore Street’s Alchemy is centred on the keystone of healthy local ingredients. It’s a classic Kiwi mix of good coffee, great brunch, and thanks to its additional dinner hours, there are also shared-plate options, and a decent wine and beer selection. It’s a must-visit.