Port Chalmers 

Originally named Koputai by Kai Tahu, Port Chalmers became an important trading port for sealers and whalers in the early 19th century. By 1863 it was the third largest port in Australasia, fuelled by the Otago gold rush. It went on to farewell New Zealand's first cargo of refrigerated meat in 1882, and explorers like Robert Falcon Scott and Ernest Shackleton as they embarked on their Antarctic expeditions. The wealth of the port, and the role it played in shaping early New Zealand, is reflected in its fine collection of bluestone buildings and rich maritime history.

For more information on Port Chalmers visit: www.portchalmers.com

The Taieri Plains are just 15 minutes drive from Dunedin City, situated in the hinterland and including centres such as Mosgiel (the second largest settlement within Dunedin City), Allanton and Outram.  This agriculturally rich area boasts the Taieri River and Dunedin's International Airport as well as scenic views of the surrounding mountain ranges.  The Taieri plains are also famous for the Taeiri Gorge Railway which runs straight through this grand landscape en route to Middlemarch. 

For more information on the Taieri Gorge Railway visit:  www.taieri.co.nz 

The Waitaki Valley links North Otago to Central Otago and encompasses a diverse range of scenery from rolling farmland to a pristine alpine playground, with orchards, vineyards and villages lying  in between.  The coastline between Oamaru and Palmerston offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean, uncrowded beaches and a host of friendly villages and townships, each with its distinctive character.  Be sure to stop by the Moeraki Boulders or take one of the many scenic walks or tours which encapulate the beauty of the region. 

For more information or to visit the Waitaki, go to:  www.visitoamaru.co.nz

Clutha District

Friendly locals, a warm welcome and plenty to see and do make Clutha Country an increasingly popular visitor destination. Just half an hour south of Dunedin airport, the Clutha district is the gateway to Southland and Central Otago. With spectacular scenery along our rocky coastal shores, rich wetlands abundant in birdlife, lush rolling hills and untouched native forests, the district offers so much to the outdoor enthusiast. Fishing, hunting, surfing, watersports and bushwalks are popular activities, while history lovers will love the quaint township of Lawrence, with its rich history of gold rush days. Take the Southern Scenic Route through the Catlins into Southland, follow the gold trail through Lawrence and beyond, or visit the Blue Mountains for more rugged pursuits.

Palmerston

Situated just over half an hour's drive north of Dunedin, Palmerston thrives as a rural centre serving the productive  farmland surrounding it. Its clear air and warm sunshine have made it an increasingly popular holiday destination.  Palmerston is also the gateway to the Otago Goldfields Heritage Trail, a self drive tour of relics of the Central Otago gold rush.  The town is also close to Macraes Flat, the home of the Macraes Gold Mine.  

For more information on the area visit:  www.eastotago.co.nz 

Omakau is a small town nestled in the Manuherikia District of Central Otago, just under half an hour's drive from Alexandra.  It is a popular stop-over for cyclists ana walkers on the Otago Central Rail Trail.  The area, reknowned for its arts, handicrafts and swimming holes, is also well-known for the townships of Ophir and St. Bathans, both gold-rush settlements in their day.  With local hospitality spots dotted over the district and no shortage of historical architecture and artifacts, Omakau and the Manuherikia area is another of Central Otago's idyllic gems.

For more information visit:  www.otagocentralrailtrail.co.nz

Queenstown, regarded as the world's adventure capital, is a mecca for entertainment, adventure, retail and recreation, just to name a fewof its attractions.  Rugged mountains, majestic lakes, crystal-clear air, and so much to do.  From bungy-jumping to wine trails, jet boating to tramping, dining out to skiing, the tricky part of your stay is trying to fit it all in!  You won't be left disappointed and most certainly won't want to leave.  Only about 3.5 hour's drive inland from Dunedin, Queenstown and its surrounds is a destination you must secure in your travel plans. 

For more information on Queenstown visit:  www.queenstown-nz.co.nz

Southland’s spectacular scenery, unique wildlife and rich heritage draw trampers, sightseers, adventurers, naturalists and culture buffs alike … or those simply looking for an idyllic peaceful retreat, a world away from the rigours of everyday life.  Marked by tourism "off the beaten track", Southland, the Catlins and Stewart island all offer a unique experience.  Largely untouched by the "over crowding" of commercial tourism, they represent those rare getwaways where you truly do get away from it all.  From fiords and beaches to rainforests and wildlife, this southernmost area of New Zealand is an empowering destination. 

For more information visit:  www.southlandnz.com