Otago Central Rail Trail

Celebrate Matariki in the heart of Otago

Matariki, the Māori New Year, is marked by the rising of the Matariki star cluster in the midwinter sky. It is a time to reflect on the year that has passed, celebrate the present, and look ahead with hope to the future.

With the Matariki public holiday falling on Friday 10 July, there's no better time to plan a winter getaway to the Otago Central Rail Trail and the wider Central Otago and Maniototo region.

Our big skies, crisp winter days and internationally recognised dark skies create the perfect setting to connect with the stories, landscapes and stars that make Matariki so special.

Celebrations begin early with Winterstellar events across the region, including:

Matariki & Central Otago Night Sky Celebration – Saturday 4 July. Join a free afternoon of family-friendly activities at Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery, followed by an evening programme celebrating the launch of the Central Otago International Dark Sky Reserve Project. Enjoy guest speakers, night sky stories, guided stargazing and astrophotography opportunities.

Ida Valley Winter Art Show - Thursday 9th July at Oturehua Community Hall. A night of art, community & winter magic

Lohi Linen Matariki Fashion Show – Saturday 11 July, Ranfurly. One of Central Otago's most unique annual events, showcasing locally designed fashion, creativity and community spirit. Held at The Thirsty Moa, this special evening brings together designers, makers and visitors from across the South Island.

🚲 While you're here, explore the Rail Trail by bike, discover historic towns, enjoy cosy cafés, local hospitality, and experience the magic of winter beneath some of New Zealand's clearest night skies.

Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, community or simply a chance to slow down and reconnect, Matariki is the perfect time to visit.
Come and celebrate the Māori New Year under the Otago night skies.

🚴‍♀️ A new cycling adventure is about to hit the big screen.

We're delighted to see the Otago Central Rail Trail featured in TERRA: Bound, a stunning new short film that follows the first known ride of the Southern Way 1000 – Aotearoa New Zealand's newest long-distance bikepacking route.

Featuring cyclist and broadcaster Paddy Gower alongside Kat Bulk, the film showcases the spectacular landscapes, communities and trails that make the lower South Island one of the world's great cycling destinations.

The Southern Way 1000 connects more than 600km of Ngā Haerenga Great Rides, including the Otago Central Rail Trail, taking riders on an epic journey through some of the most remarkable scenery in Otago and Southland.

Premiering this weekend at the NZ Mountain Film & Book Festival in Wānaka, TERRA: Bound is set to inspire riders from New Zealand and around the world to discover the magic of exploring by bike.

As Paddy Gower puts it:

"Epic scenery, epic trails and truly epic country. Every kilometre was special."

Take a look at these images from the film and keep an eye out for the trailer, which we'll be sharing soon.

images: Geoff Marks

🌟 National Volunteer Week 2026 🌟

This week we celebrate National Volunteer Week and the theme "Your Year to Volunteer – Tōu tau ki te tūao", recognising the volunteers who strengthen communities across Aotearoa New Zealand.

The Otago Central Rail Trail Charitable Trust has been built on the dedication of volunteers since its establishment in 1994. Every Trustee and Patron, past and present, has generously given their time, skills and expertise to help protect, enhance and promote one of New Zealand's most iconic Great Rides.

Today we acknowledge and thank our current volunteer Trustees:

• Kate Wilson (Chairperson)
• Sam Inder
• Ken Gillespie
• Colleen Hurd
• Peter Mulvihill

We also recognise Honorary Life Advisory Trustee Daphne Hull MNZM, QSM and Patron John Gibson, whose contributions to the Rail Trail have been extraordinary.

To all those who have served the Trust over the past 32 years — thank you. Your commitment, vision and volunteer spirit have helped create a lasting legacy and the many people who enjoy the trail each year.

💚 Ngā mihi nui for your service.

For more about the Trustees and their work: https://www.otagocentralrailtrail.co.nz/explore-and-discover/trail-trust-2/

A new chapter begins for the Oturehua Railway Hotel !

There’s wonderful news from along the trail, the future of the historic Oturehua Railway Hotel has been secured.

After 17 years of welcoming locals, travellers and Otago Central Rail Trail riders through their doors, Grahame and Liz Jones can now look forward to their next chapter, knowing this much-loved piece of Oturehua history will continue.

A huge thank you to Grahame and Liz for the care, commitment and hospitality they have shared with the community over the years. The Oturehua Railway Hotel has been more than just a pub — it has been a place where stories are shared, friendships are made, and riders, locals and visitors come together.

We’re delighted to welcome Angela Stockdale, owner of the Wedderburn Tavern, who stepped forward to purchase the hotel before the June 1 deadline and ensure this important community hub remains part of Oturehua’s future.

As Angela says, places like this are vital to rural communities — they are gathering places, meeting points and a home away from home. They also play an important role in the Otago Central Rail Trail experience, providing riders with those memorable moments of local hospitality that make the journey so special.

Congratulations to Grahame and Liz on finding the right person to carry the baton forward, and best wishes to Angela as she begins this exciting new chapter.

Here’s to many more years of good company, great stories and warm welcomes at the Oturehua Railway Hotel. 🍻🚲

image credit: Clare Toia-Bailey

Read more about the story in Stuff: https://www.stuff.co.nz/home-property/360989497/historic-central-otago-pub-saved-closure-eleventh-hour and the ODT: https://www.odt.co.nz/regions/central-otago/fears-allayed-after-historic-pub-bought

🚲 It’s not just about the ride – it’s about what you do in between your ride.

Imagine pedalling from winery to winery, stopping for a great coffee, exploring historic treasures, discovering local characters, or finding your next unforgettable experience along the way.

That’s the magic of cycling the Otago Central Rail Trail and trails throughout Otago. The journey becomes part of the destination.

From cellar doors between Clyde and Alexandra on the Otago Central Rail Trail, to curling in Naseby, visiting Historic Hayes and Gilchrist’s Store, or exploring the rich gold mining history of Otago – there’s so much more waiting beyond the trail itself.

Ready to be inspired for your next adventure? Read the Trail Hub article, The Ride Between, and discover why some of the best experiences happen between the start and finish line.

📖 Read the article here: https://www.trailhub.co.nz/inspiration/the-ride-between/

Photo credit: Brooke Sabin

✨ Discover the timeless charm of Oturehua ✨

Nestled in the heart of the Ida Valley, Oturehua is one of those special places that rewards those who slow down and take a look around.

From the ingenuity of Hayes Engineering and the nostalgia of Gilchrist's General Store, to the fascinating stories of the Golden Progress Mine and the stunning landscapes surrounding the Idaburn Dam, there's plenty to explore beyond the trail itself.

Whether you're planning your Otago Central Rail Trail adventure or looking for reasons to stay an extra night, Oturehua offers a genuine slice of rural New Zealand that leaves a lasting impression.

Read our latest blog and discover why this small Central Otago township is one of the trail's hidden gems.

🔗 https://www.otagocentralrailtrail.co.nz/plan/news-and-stories/oturehua-where-summer-stands-still/

📍 Oturehua – "The place where the summer star stands still"

Thinking about your first bikepacking or gravel riding adventure? 🚴‍♀️⛰️

There are some beginner-friendly itineraries across Central Otago and Queenstown — including the iconic Otago Central Rail Trail.

From relaxed “credit card rides” with great coffee and cosy accommodation nearby, through to more adventurous gravel loops and backcountry experiences, there’s something for every level of rider.

One of the best things about riding in Central Otago? You can travel light, take your time, and enjoy the journey at your own pace while soaking up some pretty spectacular scenery along the way.

The Otago Central Rail Trail is the perfect introduction to multi-day riding — and a great gateway into exploring more of the region’s incredible gravel roads and trail network.

Check out the article for inspiration and start planning your next adventure 👇

https://www.trailhub.co.nz/itineraries/5-bikepacking-itineraries-for-beginners/

Winter riding on the Otago Central Rail Trail is something truly special ❄️🚴

Crisp clear skies, snow-dusted landscapes, warm fires, hearty meals and incredible night skies — winter is a beautiful time to experience the trail for those keen for a little adventure.

A few tips to help maximise your enjoyment:
• Wear plenty of layers — merino is highly recommended
• Plan for all weather conditions
• Check the forecast before you ride
• Make sure you’re off the trail well before dark
• Let accommodation providers know your expected arrival time
• Check winter opening hours for cafés and services
• Take time to enjoy the cosy stops along the way

Winter favourites also include indoor curling and outdoor ice skating in Alexandra and Naseby ⛸️

Come prepared and you’ll be rewarded with a truly memorable Otago winter adventure.

More: https://www.otagocentralrailtrail.co.nz/plan/news-and-stories/winter-riding-on-the-rail-trail-crisp-days-big-adventure/

images: Clare Toia-Bailey