Follow the trails of pioneers, gold rush legends, and breathtaking
landscapes on this unforgettable journey from Queenstown to Middlemarch, an
odyssey through the heart of Central Otago.

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel in Queenstown, a vibrant alpine
town world-famous for its dramatic scenery, adventure sports, and cinematic
landscapes. Settle into one of our luxurious Mercedes-Benz vehicles and travel
in comfort and style as you depart this hub of excitement and natural beauty,
heading into a region shaped by gold rush history, carved by ancient rivers,
and rich with untold stories.

Winding through gorges, past lakes, and into preserved gold rush towns, you’ll
explore the best of Central Otago before reaching Middelmarch.

Itinerary Highlights:

1. Queenstown
   
   Begin your journey with a hotel pickup in Queenstown, the adventure capital of
   New Zealand. As you depart, travel east through the iconic Gibbston wine
   region and the dramatic Kawarau Gorge , where gold rush history and rugged
   beauty combine.

   
   

2. Lake Dunstan & Cromwell
   
   Drive alongside the shimmering waters of Lake Dunstan and Cromwell , a
   town rich in gold mining history and nestled at the confluence of the Clutha
   and Kawarau Rivers.

   
   

3. Clyde
   
   Stop for morning tea (available for purchase) at a local cafe in the
   charming and historic town of Clyde, with its beautifully preserved gold rush
   architecture and heritage-focused atmosphere.

   
   

4. Ophir Bridge
   
   Pause for photos at this picturesque 1880 suspension bridge — a testament to
   19th-century engineering that spans the Manuherikia River in one of Central
   Otago’s oldest settlements.

   
   

5. St Bathans
   
   Wander through this atmospheric ghost town, where gold once ruled and stories
   still echo. Marvel at the haunting Blue Lake , formed by mining, and
   explore well-preserved buildings from a bygone era.

   
   

6. Middlemarch
   
   Nestled at the foot of the Rock and Pillar Range, Middlemarch is a charming
   rural town that marks the start (or end!) of the iconic Otago Central Rail
   Trail. With its wide skies, rustic landscapes, and warm southern hospitality,
   it’s the perfect place to experience the quiet beauty of inland Otago. Whether
   you’re soaking in the history of the old rail line, enjoying a coffee in a
   local café, or just taking in the dramatic high country scenery, Middlemarch
   offers a peaceful pause and a true slice of classic Kiwi heartland.

   
   

Tour Inclusions:

• Small group experience (max 15 guests)

  
  

• Fully guided road journey from Queenstown to Middlemarch

  
  

• Luxury Mercedes-Benz transport

  
  

• Morning tea stop (food available for purchase)

  
  

• Water and snacks provided

  
  

• Hotel pickup in Queenstown

  
  

At Cheeky Kiwi Travel , we believe the journey is just as memorable as the
destination. With passionate guides, thoughtfully designed itineraries, and
our signature small-group approach, we turn travel into a rich and personal
experience — one full of surprises, stories, and scenic wonders.

Questions? Visit our FAQs page — we’re here to help!