Otago is a dramatic and diverse region in the South Island of New Zealand, stretching from the Pacific coastline near Dunedin across the rugged Central Otago highlands to the alpine lakes and mountains around Queenstown and Wanaka. It is one of New Zealand's most iconic and visited destinations, blending world-class adventure sports, wildlife encounters, gold rush history, and award-winning wine production.
Top attractions
The most popular and significant attractions in Otago.
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1
AJ Hackett Kawarau Bungy
The world's first commercial bungy jumping site, perched 43 meters above the turquoise Kawarau River. Opened in 1988 by AJ Hackett, this iconic experience lets visitors leap from the historic Kawarau Bridge while watching the action from a free viewing platform below.
Tip: Book online in advance, especially in summer. Non-jumpers can watch from the free viewing deck. Photography and video packages available.
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2
Queenstown Skyline Gondola & Luge
Ride the steepest cable car in the Southern Hemisphere to Bob's Peak for panoramic views of Queenstown, Lake Wakatipu, and The Remarkables. At the top enjoy the luge track, zipline, bungy, stargazing, and a buffet restaurant.
Tip: Combine with a luge ride for great value. Dinner at the summit restaurant offers spectacular sunset views. Book the buffet dinner in advance.
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3
Shotover Jet
New Zealand's most famous jet boat ride speeds through the narrow Shotover River canyon at 85 km/h, performing thrilling 360-degree spins centimeters from the canyon walls. The Shotover River canyon is one of the most spectacular gorges in New Zealand.
Tip: Wear warm clothes as you will get wet. Free shuttles from central Queenstown. No experience or fitness required.
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4
Otago Peninsula Wildlife Encounters
The Otago Peninsula is one of the world's most accessible wildlife sites, home to the world's only mainland royal albatross colony at Taiaroa Head, yellow-eyed penguins (hoiho), little blue penguins, New Zealand sea lions, and fur seals.
Tip: Book wildlife tours well in advance in summer. Dress in layers—the peninsula is exposed and windy. Binoculars recommended.
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5
The Remarkables Ski Area
One of only two ski fields in the world directly above a major tourist town, The Remarkables overlooks Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu with dramatic alpine scenery. Suitable for beginners through experts with terrain parks, off-piste runs, and ski school.
Tip: Book lift passes online for discount. Shuttle buses run from Queenstown town center. Beginners should enroll in ski school.
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6
Routeburn Track
One of New Zealand's nine Great Walks, the Routeburn Track traverses through Mount Aspiring National Park and Fiordland National Park over 32 km. Stunning alpine scenery includes hanging valleys, mountain tarns, and spectacular views across the Harris Saddle.
Tip: Book DOC huts well in advance—they sell out months ahead. Day walks from the Queenstown end are free. Water-proof gear essential.
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7
Fergburger
Queenstown's legendary burger institution, famous for enormous, gourmet burgers made with fresh New Zealand beef and locally sourced ingredients. Open nearly around the clock, with queues that regularly extend out the door—a true Queenstown rite of passage.
Tip: Try the 'Bun Laden' (lamb) or 'Big Al' (chicken). The queue moves quickly. Order online for faster pickup.
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8
Lake Wanaka
One of New Zealand's most photographed lakes, Lake Wanaka is a stunning glacial lake surrounded by mountains. The iconic 'Wanaka Tree'—a lone willow growing from the lake's edge—is one of New Zealand's most Instagram-famous images. Ideal for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and lakeside walks.
Tip: The Wanaka Tree is on the eastern shore near town—walk along the lakefront. Paddleboard and kayak rentals available nearby. Mount Roy track offers great lake views.
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9
Baldwin Street
Listed in the Guinness Book of Records as one of the world's steepest residential streets, Baldwin Street in Dunedin has a gradient of 1 in 2.86 (35%) at its steepest. Walking up is a challenge; the annual Baldwin Street Gutbuster race has runners tackling it repeatedly.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes. Walk up the side for easier footing. Cadbury used to roll chocolates down the street during the annual event.
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10
Dunedin Railway Station
Built in 1906 in Flemish Renaissance style, Dunedin Railway Station is considered one of the most photographed buildings in New Zealand and one of the most decorated railway stations in the Southern Hemisphere. The interior features a magnificent mosaic tile floor with over 750,000 Royal Doulton porcelain tiles.
Tip: Take the Taieri Gorge Railway scenic train for a spectacular journey. The station also houses an art gallery and sports museum.
Tips for visiting attractions
Make the most of your sightseeing time.
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday light.
Book tickets online in advance for major attractions to skip long queues and sometimes save money.
Many cities offer multi-attraction passes that include public transport. Calculate whether they save you money based on your itinerary.