The trail is your gateway to the small communities that make Central Otago special. Take time to enjoy fun local activities — try your hand at curling, ride the luge, or explore the region’s rich history at your own pace.
Each small town has something to offer off trail for when your finish your day on the trail to add another highlight to your experience.
For something truly unforgettable, join a guided tour of the Clyde Dam — the only place in New Zealand where you can walk through the tunnels, stand beside a working turbine, and step into the control room as staff explain how the country’s power system works.
At the other end of the trail, ride the world famous Taieri Gorge train which runs from the Middlemarch end of the trail to Dunedin - a stunning 2 hour journey.
Railway Heritage
As the Railway served a large country district there were many stops along the route. With the decline and closure of the Railway, many buildings were disposed of b…
Historic Sites
The region prospered on the basis of Central Otago gold in the 19th century, and today there still remain many fine old buildings that are a legacy of those times.
Must Do
Planning to complete our Trail - make sure you set aside some time for our Top SEE & DO picks.
Activities and Tours
Central Otago has impressive mountain ranges, valleys, plains and seasonal weather, which provide opportunities for a wide range of land activities.
Tracks and Walks
Follow one of the many walking tracks and see more of the distinctive and varied scenery or venture into wonderful tussock landscapes and clear blue skies.
Sports and Outdoors
Add even more adventure to your Rail Trail trip - whether you are into adrenaline-pumping action, or you prefer more relaxed sit-back-and-enjoy-spectacular-scenery t…