Central Otago

The Roads That Trump Queenstown

SH85 and 87 are, for me, the best argument for travelling this country in a campervan. Off the beaten track, wide open, and full of the kind of random moments you can't plan for. I'd take a day on these roads over an extra day in Queenstown or Wanaka every time. The highway itself is good, but it's the detours that really do it.

Pubs, Pies and a Blue Lake

St Bathans is the standout stop. The Vulcan Hotel is my personal favourite pub in the South Island, old school southern hospitality at its finest. Right next door is the Blue Lake walk, about 45 minutes around or just head down for a swim. Use the designated campsite just up the road though. Freedom camping at the pub or the lake doesn't go down well with locals. Further along, Waipata has another great country pub and the legendary Waipata Pie Co. Do not skip it.

Power of the Dog Country

The Ida Valley is chalk and cheese from anything else on the South Island. Wide open, sparse, and genuinely cinematic. Jane Campion filmed Power of the Dog here standing in for a Montana ranch, which tells you everything. The Ophir Historic Bridge is worth a stop too, takes you a little further back in time. Naseby is good for lunch, a stroll, and if you're up for something a bit different, curling of all things. Low key good fun. There's also decent camping out this way if you're staying the night.

If you're pushing through Cromwell, the RANKERS promo code is worth knowing about for cycling and mountain biking in the area. Central Otago has some serious trail country and it's a good way to slow down and actually feel the place.