New Zealand’s most inland region is affectionately known as ‘Central’. It boasts a well-preserved gold heritage, growing arts culture and unique, undulating landscape - with snow-capped mountains, clear blue rivers and tussock-clad hills.

The crisp winters and hot, dry summers provide the perfect climate for viticulture. The region’s many wineries produce Pinot Noir and other popular varieties, while local orchards provide seasonal fruits. Restaurants and cafés abound in and around Central’s townships, including Cromwell, Clyde, Alexandra, Roxburgh, Arrowtown, St Bathans and Ranfurly, with local delicacies for every palate.

Central’s blend of small towns with larger main centres means activities for everyone, from cycle tracks to walking tracks, horse riding to fishing. Socialise or find solitude, it’s all catered-for here. The area is also a beautiful gateway to the adventure tourism capital of New Zealand – Queenstown.

Whether indulging your love of skiing or snowboarding in winter, or taking a lakeside summer holiday, Queenstown will not disappoint. Enjoy a scenic flight, try bungy jumping or jetboating, or hop in a gondola to the Skyline where you can dine, luge, mountain bike, or experience a Maori Haka.

With your sense of adventure satisfied, slow the pace a little with a trip over New Zealand’s highest main road, the Crown Range, to visit the ski and summer resort town of Wanaka.

With its lakeside restaurants, cafés and mountain views, Wanaka is another popular tourist town, considered less commercialised than Queenstown. Wanaka is home to the National Transport and Toy Museum, Puzzling World and the biennial Warbirds over Wanaka airshow, as well as music festivals and sporting events throughout the year.