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OUR TOP DESTINATION FOR NEW ZEALAND

1. Aoraki/Mt. Cook
2. Abel Tasman National Park
3. Mount Maunganui
4. Raglan
5. New Plymouth

Introducing Otago

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   Welcome to Otago

   Otago commands a large portion of the South Island, in terms of space, variety and activities. Dunedin, the provincial capital, is the most Scottish of New Zealand’s cities, home to the oldest university and the gateway to the spectacular Otago Peninsula. Queenstown, sitting on the shores of the majestic Lake Wakatipu, is the self-professed Adventure Capital of the World and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Zealand. Ripe with walking tracks and other natural activities, Queenstown is a destination not just for the adrenaline set. Wanaka, less than an hour away, is a favorite spot for domestic and international visitors and has a more laid-back manner. The gold country of Central Otago has some of the most incredible scenery around – and makes for some easy-going poking and prodding around small-town New Zealand.

   Getting Here

   By Air

   Otago is served by international airports in both Dunedin and Queenstown. See those sections for details.

   By Car

   I live at the top of the South Island and when I think of heading to any of the towns of Otago, I am immediately in a quandary. Should I blast down along SH1 to Dunedin and then head inland, take my time and tour around SH72 and then SH8 through the middle of the island, or should I drive to theWest Coast and enter via SH6? My decision isn’t usually made until I back out of the driveway and see which way my car points and, even then, I’m not sure. I suppose it all depends on the time at hand and the focus of your trip.

Otago, New Zealand, South Island, Dunedin, Lake Wakatipu, Otago Peninsula, South Island, Travel Guide

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