Cromwell

Located in Central Otago Cromwell is a destination that is central to everywhere! It is a special place not to be missed. From rugged to rolling hills, two great rivers and the sparking pristine waters of Lake Dunstan - the natural beauty of the area is overwhelming.

The Cromwell basin is home to a host of award-winning wineries; many with cellar doors and restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the scenery while enjoying some the world’s finest pinot noir.

Situated on the shore of Lake Dunstan, Cromwell is an idyllic location for swimming, fishing, boating and water sports in summer. In winter, there are five ski fields all within comfortable driving distances. It is also home to the famous Highland's Motorsport Park, a popular visitor attraction with activities for the whole family. 

The Lake Dunstan Trail that follows the shores of Lake Dunstan between Cromwell and Clyde is a popular day ride. It’s recommended that riders choose sections to suit their skill level, with the easiest parts of the trail between Pisa Moorings and Bannockburn. Once you enter the Cromwell Gorge the trail becomes more challenging so is recommended for experienced cyclists only. Something to watch out for is the highly anticipated opening of the Kawarau Gorge Trail linking Gibbston and Bannockburn likely to be early 2026.

For those that are looking for a slightly slower pace, try a round of golf. Choose from 18 holes on New Zealand’s most inland links course, mini golf or frisbee golf. The area also has a rich heritage past with remnants of goldfields to explore and wonder at the tenacity of those that came before. The Bannockburn Sluicing’s is considered to be so significant it is now a Tohu Whenua site. Be sure to take a wander down to the Cromwell Heritage Precinct for a selection of boutique shops, art galleries and cosy cafes.

Cromwell is renowned for its seasonal produce, and roadside stalls or the weekly farmers and craft market are great places to stock up on flavours from the region. In summer choose from cherries, apricots, peaches, nectarines, plums, apples and pears. It’s hard to miss the importance of fruit growing to this region with the perfect photo stop being the large fruit sculpture that sits in front of the town centre. It was designed and erected by the Lions Club of Cromwell when the town was moved to its new location after the Hydro Dam at Clyde created Lake Dunstan which flooded the heart of the original township.