Tuesday 22 April. Today, we fly to Queenstown. Upon arrival, we pick up our vehicle and head to the charming town of Arrowtown. Take your time to stretch your legs and explore this beautiful alpine retreat. Enjoy lunch at your leisure—perhaps a visit to Nadia Lim’s Royalburn Farm Store?

After lunch, we continue our journey to Clyde. Upon arrival, we check in to Dunstan House, a beautifully restored heritage-listed building dating back to the late 1800s. Once settled, you can relax in the comfort of your room or explore Clyde’s historic precinct. Stroll among the historic buildings, visit the local museums or browse boutique shops offering merino wool products, art, homeware, jewellery, wine, and artisan goods.

In the evening, we embrace the town’s rich history as we enjoy dinner at the fabulous historic Post Office Restaurant.

(Dinner)

Wednesday 23 April. This morning, we meet our local guide, who will accompany us for the next few days, offering a personalised experience in this unique region. Central Otago is a land of history, heart, and beauty, set against a stunning backdrop of rocky landscapes and golden tussock plains.

We begin with a visit to Alexandra, famously known as New Zealand’s hottest, driest, and coldest town—a fascinating claim to fame! 

From there, we continue to Naseby, where we enjoy lunch and visit the Naseby Curling Rink for a demonstration of this intriguing sport. Try your hand at curling—you might just uncover a hidden talent and become the next national champion!

After some fun on the ice, we journey along the Dansey’s Pass Road and make our way to the Dansey’s Pass Hotel for our three-night stay. Nestled deep within the Kyeburn Diggings, the hotel has a colorful history dating back to the 1860s, when it served a bustling gold prospecting community of 2,000 people.

The hotel, originally built in 1862, has its foundations in stonework crafted by a mason known as “Happy Bill.” His unique payment? One pint of beer for every schist boulder he shaped and laid. According to legend, after an especially busy day, Happy Bill fell into an open grave at the nearby cemetery and slept soundly through the night!

We arrive at the beautifully refurbished Dansey’s Pass Hotel in time for dinner and look forward to a peaceful night’s rest amidst its historic charm.

Breakfast, Dinner.

Thursday 24 April. Today, two things can happen; if the weather plays ball we will be picked up by a local 4WD tour operator and taken on a breathtaking trip up into the mountains. And if the changeable conditions of these mountains cast any doubt on this experience we will track out to the original Dunstan Trail and visit the Poolburn Reservoir. Both these trips offer exceptional vistas over the rough and ready landscapes of the Central Otago.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Friday 25 April. We begin the day with a visit to Wedderburn, where we meet the Duncan family, fourth-generation farmers who take us on a guided tour of their working farm.

Next, we visit Clachanburn Garden, where Jane Falconer warmly welcomes us to her enchanting country garden. Nestled in the stark beauty of the Maniototo, this lush oasis features rolling lawns and vibrant borders that flow gracefully to two large ponds. With rugged hills on one side and distant mountains beyond, the garden creates a striking contrast to the dry Central Otago landscape. Jane has also prepared a delicious shared lunch for us to enjoy.

After a day of touring and uncovering the area’s rich history, we return to the hotel for some well-deserved rest and relaxation. In the evening, we gather for dinner at the Royal Hotel in Naseby, wrapping up another memorable day.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Saturday 26 April. This morning, we pack our bags and bid farewell to this beautiful part of the country. Our first stop is back in Clyde, where we depart on a fascinating tour of the dam! (This tour requires a moderate level of fitness, as there are some stairs to navigate. If this isn’t suitable, you are welcome to spend your time exploring more of Clyde at your leisure).

After our tour, we continue our journey to Queenstown Airport, marking the end of this unforgettable experience in Central Otago. 

Breakfast.