Jon Algie 
I’m sure dams and reservoirs don’t seem like the most interesting places to see, but the dams in Central Otago are! They’re all surrounded by beautiful scenery and it’s worth seeking a few out on your next trip to Central Otago. Butchers Dam The Reservoir at Butchers Dam is beautiful on a clear, calm day … Read more
Most people who are either from New Zealand or live there know about Stewart Island. They know that it’s full of forests and birds and wild coastlines, and that hardly anyone lives there. I’ve already shown you some of the nature on offer around Stewart Island, so today I thought I’d give you a look … Read more
Arrowtown is often seen as a day trip destination, but there is heaps to keep you busy, whether you’re there for a few hours or a few days. Towns don’t get much cuter than Arrowtown, and the hills surrounding it are home to heaps of walking trails. We’ve been to Arrowtown half a dozen times … Read more
One of the most interesting historic sights in the Queenstown area, Arrowtown’s historic Chinese Settlement is a fun place for a stroll, and to learn about the lives of Chinese goldminers during the Otago goldrush. It’s free, quick to walk around and is located right in the heart of Arrowtown. Arrowtown Chinese Settlement Chinese goldminers, … Read more
Travelling around Central Otago and looking for a walk with interesting history, great views and picturesque vineyards? Consider checking out the Bannockburn Sluicings, a former mining area close to Cromwell. The loop track is easy and there’s heaps to see along the way, as you’re about to find out. Bannockburn Sluicings Loop Track You can … Read more
Queenstown is best known for its mountain views, adventure sports and nightlife, but it also has some great beaches! Whether you’re visiting in summer and want somewhere to chill out and swim, or you’re there at a colder time of year and want something pretty to look at, these beaches in Queenstown will fit the … Read more
Alexandra is one of the biggest towns in Central Otago, and chances are that if you’re travelling around the region you’ll end up there eventually. It could be tempting to do some shopping at the Warehouse, grab some KFC and move on, but there are heaps of fun things to do in Alexandra, both in … Read more
Often overshadowed by the more popular lakes nearby (Wānaka, Te Anau and Wakatipu), Lake Hāwea is just as scenic and usually a lot less crowded. The Gladstone Track is the perfect mid-range hike — you’ll see beautiful views of the beach, lake and mountains from above, with plenty of chances to get down to beach … Read more
If you’re looking for a walk in Arrowtown with a good variety of views, look no further than the Sawpit Gully Track. This hike takes you along the Arrow River and then down into Sawpit Gully, eventually winding up the hill for beautiful views above Arrowtown, Lake Hayes and the Remarkables. Keep reading for everything … Read more
Arrowtown is one of the cutest and most interesting small towns in New Zealand. It boomed during the goldrush, with the Arrow River teeming with gold (and miners searching for it). The Arrow River Trail takes you along a short section of this picturesque river and connects with other tracks heading into the hills. The … Read more