Things to Do:
Maniototo Adventure Park- Indoor Curling
This is great fun. Kind of like lawn bowls on ice but with 20kg stones!
The Maniototo Adventure Park operates the indoor curling rink, the only dedicated indoor curling rink in the southern hemisphere, which is located in the historic goldfields town of Naseby. It is open all year round so visit at any time and keep cool on those hot summer days. In winter, there is also Outdoor curling, Luge and Ice Skating. A new feature at the park is the Goldrush Luge. Opened in 2023, it is open all year.
This is an ideal family friendly activity. The helpful staff offer a lesson for novices and then you'll be under way, playing the 'roaring game.'
A souvenir shop, bar and viewing area are all part of this modern purpose-built facility that is unique in New Zealand.
Mountain Biking
The Maniototo is one of the premier regions in New Zealand for mountain biking.
Tracks range from beginner to expert in difficulty. Grade 1- Grade 4
The Naseby forest area has a huge range of tracks that all weave through the forestry recreation area. The water race which runs from the Manuherikia River to Naseby has a scenic Grade 1 trail beside it and is suitable for the whole family.
Off The Rails have Mountain Bikes for hire, including Ebikes.
4-Wheel Drive Adventures
There is a lot of country people never get to see! Central Otago and the Maniototo area are full of just such places.
The Old Dunstan Trail (that led into Central Otago from Dunedin) and the Mt.Bustergold workings (located at 4000 ft. above sea level) are examples of places that you'll be able to say you've been!
This is way to access some of the most spectacular scenery in the region.
Off The Rails offer 4WD trips, either half day or full day.
Fishing and Hunting
This area has some of the best fishing in the country. The Taieri River is one of the best kept fisherman's secrets. The headwaters of the Taieri form a large wetland in the Styx Valley. Many species of native and introduced fish breed there.
Local dams and rivers also offer good sport.
The local iSite in Ranfurly has information about where to go..
Talk to Off The Rails staff for places to go.
Tramping and Walks
Walk on some of the great Forest walks in Naseby, the Sowburn River walks in Patearoa, gentle strolls through the townships and Ranfurly's Rural Art Deco walk or more challenging tracks around the area.
For a more experienced tramper explore the newly developed Oteake Conservation Park that takes in the St Bathans, Hawkdun, Ida and St Marys Ranges.
Talk to Off The Rails who will point you in the right direction.
Wine Tour
The region from Queenstown through to Alexandra has some of the most southerly vineyards in the world. Despite this it has become a region famous for Pinot Noir and other varieties.
Why not take a day out from cycling and enjoy a full day touring through wine country. Stop at iconic vineyards, sample their wares and talk with the knowledgeable staff that make the magic happen.
Please talk to us at Off The Rails for options. Note, This is for groups of 4 or more.
Historic Places
The region was originally settled on the back of wool and gold. There are numerous sites of historic importance throughout Central Otago.
They range from structures such buildings and bridges through to altered landforms such as the Blue Lake of St. Bathans.
Hayes Engineering Works at Oturehua is also worthy of a visit.
The iSites throughout the region have helpful and informative brochures to guide your way.
Golf
The area is noted for its picturesque gold courses. (Some have unique water hazards such as a large water race running a few metres in front of the tee!)
Green fees are extremely reasonable at around $15 for 18 holes.
Naseby, Ranfurly and Patearoa all have courses. There is also a shorter course that makes good family entertainment at Wedderburn.
The Ranfurly iSite has plenty of information in a brochure entitled 'Golfing Central Otago.'
