We Work in Otago: Here Are Our Top 5 Experiences
Kia ora and welcome to our backyard! Otago is where we live, work, and play - so naturally, we’ve spent countless days exploring its stunning landscapes and vibrant towns. If you’re planning a self-drive holiday in this special part of Aotearoa, check out these five must-do experiences. Best of all, they can fit seamlessly into many of our South Island tours.
1. Discover Dunedin’s Heritage & Coastal Wildlife
Why We Love It:
Dunedin is a charismatic city with its blend of Scottish heritage, Victorian-era architecture, and a lively student atmosphere. But it’s not just about the city centre - head out to the Otago Peninsula for rugged coastal views and the chance to spot some of New Zealand’s rarest wildlife.
Top Highlights:
Stroll past the iconic Dunedin Railway Station and First Church of Otago.
Head to the Otago Peninsula for the Royal Albatross Centre, where you might catch albatross in flight.
Venture to Sandfly Bay or Allan’s Beach to see sea lions and yellow-eyed penguins (hoiho).
Insider Tip:
Bring warm layers! Dunedin can be chilly - even if the day starts out sunny.
Tours that Include (or Can Include) Dunedin:
Check out our 14 Day Classic South Island Tour itinerary, which dedicates time to Dunedin’s heritage. If you’d like more wildlife experiences, let us know when you book - our team can customise the itinerary for extra days on the Peninsula.
Approximate Costs (NZD):
Royal Albatross Centre tours: $40–$50 per adult
Coastal lookouts and beaches: Free (although we encourage koha/donations to conservation projects)
2. Savour Central Otago’s World-Class Wines
Why We Love It:
Central Otago’s dramatic landscapes and continental climate produce some of the best pinot noir in the world - along with standout whites and rosés. Vineyards sprawl across the Gibbston Valley, Bannockburn, and beyond, offering panoramic views alongside tastings.
Top Highlights:
Visit cellar doors for tastings (many offer cheese platters or gourmet nibbles).
Explore wine caves, like those in Gibbston Valley, for a unique sampling experience.
Enjoy farm-fresh, locally sourced meals at on-site winery restaurants.
Insider Tip:
If you’re flying home, ask about shipping - many wineries can send bottles straight to your door.
Tours that Feature Central Otago Wine Country:
Our 12 Day Ultimate Southern Adventure passes through Queenstown and the Gibbston Valley region - perfect for wine enthusiasts. Alternatively, the 30 Day Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip can be tailored to include extra cellar-door stops.
Approximate Costs (NZD):
Wine tastings: $5–$15 per person (often waived if you purchase a bottle)
Winery meals: $25–$40 for mains
3. Embrace Adventure in Queenstown
Why We Love It:
Queenstown is dubbed the “Adventure Capital of the World” for good reason - bungy jumps, jet boats, and skydives are all on tap. But beyond the adrenaline, this alpine resort town offers incredible lakeside scenery, bustling nightlife, and mouth-watering dining options.
Top Highlights:
Get your heart racing with a jet boat ride on the Shotover or Kawarau River.
Take the Skyline Gondola for panoramic views over Lake Wakatipu, then whizz down the luge.
Drive to nearby Glenorchy, a jaw-dropping route famed for its Lord of the Rings scenery.
Insider Tip:
Travelling in autumn or spring can mean fewer crowds and better deals on accommodation.
Tours that Include Queenstown:
Our 12 Day Ultimate Southern Adventure features the best experiences in Queenstown.
The 14 Day South Island Campervan and Motorhome Tour also spends time here - just let us know if you’d like to add extra activities.
Approximate Costs (NZD):
Jet boating or bungy jumping: $150–$200+
Skyline Gondola ride: About $40 per adult (combo tickets for luge rides available)
4. Find Serenity in Wanaka’s Lakeside Charm
Why We Love It:
Wanaka is Queenstown’s laid-back cousin - offering glorious lake and alpine views, fantastic cafés, and year-round outdoor pursuits. Whether you’re skiing in winter or hiking in summer, Wanaka’s scenery never fails to impress.
Top Highlights:
Roy’s Peak Track (if you’re keen on a challenging, jaw-dropping day hike).
Lakefront walks or bike rides with a stop at local cafés.
Nearby ski resorts (Treble Cone, Cardrona) for wintertime fun.
Insider Tip:
Visiting in autumn? The stunning gold and red foliage against the lake is an Instagrammer’s dream!
Tours that Include Wanaka:
The 14 Days Nature, Culture & Glaciers Tour spends time in Wanaka, but you can also add it to the 21 Day Top to Toe Highlights Tour if you’d like a longer stay to squeeze in a hike or two.
Approximate Costs (NZD):
Hiking tracks: Free (check Department of Conservation alerts before you go)
Ski passes: $120–$140 for a full-day adult pass
5. Cycle the Otago Central Rail Trail
Why We Love It:
Repurposed from a historic railway, the Otago Central Rail Trail offers a 152 km route through spectacular valleys, tunnels, and old gold-mining towns. It’s flat, family-friendly, and brimming with local character.
Top Highlights:
Tackle the trail over a few days, staying in charming towns like Clyde, Lauder, or Wedderburn.
Pop into local pubs, cafés, and museums along the way for a dose of country hospitality.
Enjoy unique photo ops at old train stations and around farmland vistas.
Insider Tip:
Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak season - many places have limited rooms.
Tours that Can Include the Rail Trail:
Many of our tours such as the 12 Day Ultimate Southern Adventure or 12 Day Ultimate Rail & Drive Explorer can be customised to include Rail Trail cycling segments. Let us know your fitness level and timing, and we’ll organise the best spots to eat, sleep, and explore on the route.
Approximate Costs (NZD):
Bike hire: $50–$70 per day (e-bikes cost more)
Daily food and accommodation: $100–$200 (depending on your comfort level)
Bring These Otago Highlights to Life on Your Own Self-Drive Tour
Whether it’s uncovering Dunedin’s heritage, sipping pinot noir in Central Otago, or pedalling along the historic Rail Trail, Otago is the perfect playground for travellers seeking both adventure and relaxation. At New Zealand Driving Holidays, we’re here to help you experience it all - on your terms.
Ready to plan your Otago escape?
Head over to our Self Drive Packages to see which itinerary suits your style. If you have special requests or want to switch things up, we’re happy to customise a route that checks every item off your Otago must-do list. Just get in contact with us to start planning!
Ngā mihi nui for reading, and we can’t wait to show you around our favourite region soon!
