Your winter guide to off-mountain Tohu Whenua experiences in Central Otago

If you are heading to the slopes of Queenstown and Wānaka this hōtoke, explore some Tohu Whenua sites at the foot of the mountains to get more out of your winter getaway.

Here are four Tohu Whenua experiences to take you deeper into the heritage of this special region. This season, you'll have these places to yourself - winter is the perfect time to reconnect and explore without the crowds. 

two cyclists on bridge, on gravel trail, hills with snow in background
A fresh sparkling day on the Otago Central Rail Trail

Cycling solace on the Otago Central Rail Trail

If you’re keen on a winter cycle, the iconic Otago Central Rail Trail will give you and your whānau breathtaking views wrapped in incredible history. So long as you have gloves and warm gear, you'll love the crisp, cold, clear days. The cycle journey follows the Otago Central railway line that once connected isolated communities in Central Otago with Ōtepoti Dunedin. While the full trail takes 3-4 days, there are several entry points along the way that cater for those looking for a shorter ride.

 

man and woman drink a glass of wine, old steamship and snowy mountains in background
Winter drinks by Lake Whakatipu

All aboard the TSS Earnslaw

For a different perspective of Tāhuna Queenstown's spectacular alpine scenery, book a 90-minute lake cruise or take an all-day Earnslaw adventure by getting off at Walter Peak for your choice of guided farm tours, horse treks, cycle trails or gourmet bbq cuisine. The TSS Earnslaw, which has sailed across Lake Whakatipu since 1912, is an integral part of Tahuna Queenstown’s pioneering history and a local icon.

 

Large trees and small stone huts covered in snow.
The Chinese Miners' Village under a blanket of snow

Explore Arrowtown’s golden charm

Stepping into the restored huts of Arrowtown’s Chinese Settlement is an Otago must-see. This idyllic town is a chance to step back in time as you take your pick of award winning cafés, galleries and shops in the historic facades of Buckingham Street. If you’re in need of an inside activity day, book in for a movie at the boutique cinema and be sure to check out the excellent Lakes District Museum.

 

aerial view of two cyclists on wooden bridge over blue river
A bird's eye view of this spectacular feat of engineering

A walk, bungy or bike at Kawarau Suspension Bridge

Whether you’re ready to bungy or just keen to watch or walk around, the birthplace of bungy tourism is worth a visit. Historic Kawarau Suspension Bridge is an innovative feat of engineering that has withstood notorious canyon winds for over 140 years. The site of the world’s original commercial bungy venture can be explored via foot or cycle and is just a short drive from the centre of Tāhuna Queenstown.

 

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The Tohu Whenua guide to Otago

Homes of invention and innovation, water cruises, ancestral landscapes and cycle trails bursting with history are just some of the Tohu Whenua highlights in this region.

Heritage places your kids will love

Be a history detective. Get hands-on in an inventor’s workshop. Visit a pā site. Learn to bind books at our oldest printery. Make damper at a historic farm. Tohu Whenua heritage landmarks are great for kids!

Heritage + café destinations

Feed your curiosity and your puku! Stop off at these destinations where you can learn about history where it happened, with the added bonus of some delicious kai.

Four incredible Tohu Whenua walks around the motu

Whether you call it tramping, hiking or just plain walking – the perfect way to encounter Aotearoa New Zealand’s unique history and culture is on foot. Here are four extraordinary walks in the Tohu Whenua itinerary.

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