The ancient crossing that opened up Central Otago

Black and white photograph of the Kawarau Gorge taken in 1865 by Joseph Perry, showing the natural rock formation Whatatorere where the river narrows. Held in the Hocken Collections, University of Otago

Before there were roads through Central Otago, before bridges, before the gold rush changed everything, there was a place called Whatatorere. It sat in the Kawarau Gorge near Roaring Meg, where the river narrows to little more than a metre. For Māori, it was one of the most important features in the South Island: the […]

The Kiwi Art Trail is Almost Over – Don’t Miss It

Shebikeshebikes other trail mascots Ruru = Porky Piwakawaka = Fanny Pukeko = Swampy Sheep = Dags

We have loved being part of the Kiwi Art Trail 2026. Our “Eye of the Kiwi” sculpture here at the Clyde depot has been a real hit, and it’s been brilliant watching so many local families dust off the bikes and head out to spot kiwi sculptures along the Otago Rail Trail and River Track. […]

Alexandra Wine Tours – Central Otago’s best kept secret

An excerpt of the Alexandra Basin Wine Growers Map. It's a guide to the various vineyards in Alexandra

Discover the Alexandra Basin wine region, Central Otago’s best kept secret. Shaped by goldrush history and a striking cool-climate landscape, it produces distinctive, award-winning wines. Tastings are personal, often hosted by the vineyard owner who crafted the bottle. Explore relaxed cellar doors and vineyard scenery by bicycle on an unforgettable Central Otago wine experience.

The Best Sections of the Otago Rail Trail: A Complete Guide

Not sure which part of the Rail Trail to ride? This guide highlights the best sections for day rides, from dramatic gorges and historic tunnels to relaxed riverside stretches with cafés and vineyards. Discover distances, scenery, and local insights to help you choose the perfect ride.

Olivers of Clyde: The Heart of Luxury Cycling Experiences in Central Otago

Historic stone-walled room at Olivers Lodge in Clyde showcasing original 1869 schist architecture, vintage timber doors, ornate Persian rugs, and elegant period furnishings creating an authentic luxury accommodation experience for Otago Central Rail Trail cyclists

Experience timeless charm and boutique comfort at Olivers of Clyde, a beautifully restored heritage lodge in Central Otago. Enjoy elegant accommodation, exceptional dining, and a prime location near the Otago Central Rail Trail and renowned vineyards, making it an ideal base for a relaxed and memorable cycling escape.

World Recognition Meets Local Ambition

Cartoon illustration of a globe titled "The Worlds Most Beautiful Rail Trails for Cycling - Momentum Magazine" across a banner at the top. Wooden signposts with names of rail trails are planted on different continents: "Otago Central Rail Trail" with a kiwi bird icon on New Zealand, "Great Victorian Rail Trail" on Australia, "P'tit Train du Nord" and "Kettle Valley Rail Trail" on North America, "Great Allegheny Passage" on North America, and "La Loire à Vélo" and "Vennbahn" on Europe. The globe shows blue oceans, green landmasses, and white clouds under a sunny sky.

Discover how the Otago Central Rail Trail combines global recognition with strong local vision. Ride through historic landscapes, remarkable engineering, and welcoming Central Otago towns while experiencing one of New Zealand’s most celebrated cycling journeys. Learn why this trail continues to inspire riders from around the world.

Queenstown Bike Rental: 3 Central Otago Rides Worth the Short Drive

Matthew, the lead mechanic at SheBikesHeBikes, cycling along a dramatic cliffside section of the Lake Dunstan Trail. He is riding an e-bike on a narrow, engineered pathway that clings to the rugged rock face, with the vast, deep blue waters of the lake and the rolling Otago mountains visible in the background under a bright, clear sky.

Staying in Queenstown and looking for rewarding rides beyond the busy lakefront? Discover three memorable cycling routes just a short drive away in Central Otago. From relaxed lakeside trails to quiet country scenery, each ride offers easy access, beautiful landscapes, and a refreshing taste of the region’s slower pace and open spaces.