Central Otago Wine Trail
New Zealand
The world's southernmost wine region hugs valley roads between Queenstown and Wanaka, vineyards fighting for space between rugged schist mountains and the Kawarau River gorge. Central Otago Pinot Noir and Riesling rival anything from Burgundy or Alsace.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Queenstown
Adventure capital with serious wine depth. The drive east on SH6 enters Kawarau Gorge vineyard country within minutes of leaving town.
- Gibbston Valley
New Zealand's highest-altitude wine subregion, vines planted in gorge walls at 300 m. The winery's cave cellar is cut directly into schist rock.
- Cromwell
Stone fruit and wine capital of the South Island. The cherries, apricots, and peaches grown here are as good as the surrounding Pinot Noir.
- Bannockburn
A tiny settlement among some of the Southern Hemisphere's best Pinot Noir. Felton Road and Mt Difficulty both pour here on schist terraces.
- Wanaka
A quieter Queenstown at the foot of Lake Wanaka. Rippon Vineyard sits above the lake with one of the world's most photogenic vine settings.
Where to Eat
- Gibbston Valley Winery RestaurantNew Zealand
Enjoy seasonal dishes paired with award-winning wines in a picturesque vineyard setting.
- Carrick Winery's Waikana RoomContemporary
Savor organic wines alongside seasonal, sustainable dishes with stunning lake views.
- Akarua Wines & Kitchen by ArtisanModern New Zealand
Dine in a historic cottage amidst gardens, offering sharing plates and Akarua wines.
Things to Do
- Gibbston Valley Wine Cave TourTour
Explore New Zealand's largest wine cave and learn about the winemaking process.
- Kawarau Gorge TrailHike
Cycle or walk a scenic 32 km trail linking Queenstown to Cromwell through vineyards.
- Rippon Vineyard Tasting RoomWine Tasting
Taste biodynamic wines with panoramic views of Lake Wānaka and the Southern Alps.