Otago - From North To South

The Otago Region of New Zealand is situated on the South Island and is a region of stark and beautiful contrasts. From stunning mountain landscapes and gold mines to large rural areas with sheep, paddocks, rivers, lakes and sandy beaches, Otago is rich in culture and natural beauty and is the perfect destination for your next campervan holiday.

Otago is isolated from the rest of New Zealand, in its uniqueness, tranquillity and serenity. However, this does not mean that you won't be able to find a fantastic campervan to enjoy your holiday in. There are several locations across the region, with most Campervan Hire New Zealand depots found in the city of Queenstown. From here you can embark on the campervan adventure of your life and discover all the hidden secrets of Otago.

Magnificent landscapes encapsulate the region meaning that there is always something new and different to explore. From the coastline of pure white sand beaches, inland to the grassy plains and rolling hills, you can experience it all at your own leisure and embark on some of the most stunning driving routes in the world. Otago is cleverly divided into three main regions, the north, south and central, with each complimenting each other nicely. Then there are the two major cities, Queenstown and Dunedin, offering cosmopolitan adventures that can be enjoyed all year round!

North Otago

If green pastures, old buildings and Whitestone architecture is what you are searching for, than look no further than North Otago. This area begins just a short drive up from Dunedin, with the coastal drive simply breathtaking. The most prominent town in North Otago would have to be, Oamaru, a pleasant coastal settlement that is the perfect place to base yourself for an in-depth discovery of the north.

While staying in North Otago, you will come across such treasures as the North Otago Museum. This classic building will take you back in time to the days of the past, giving you a broader understanding of how the region has thrived over the years. Drive your campervan slightly inland and you will become lost in the beauty of the Waitaki Valley. This stunning area is home to the townships of Duntroon, Kurow, Otematata and Omarama. These are perfect places to explore if you love quiet, country towns and just want to have a relaxing time. The Waitaki Valley will surprise you and tantalise your adventurous streak, making it the highlight of your North Otago experience.

Central Otago

The Central Otago region is home to the towns of Alexandra, Clyde, Cromwell, Roxburgh and Ranfurly. The centre of the Otago region enjoys a continental climate, with New Zealand's coldest winters and hottest summers. However, don't let this deter you because this area really is quite stunning. There are several lakes in the area, including Lake Roxburgh and Lake Dunstan. These recreational hotspots offer everything from power boating and fishing to wind surfing and sailing. This will give you the perfect opportunity to get out on the water and have some of the bets fun you could imagine.

South Otago

The Southern part of Otago features a white sandy coastline that stretches as far as the eye can see and is surrounded by forests, rivers and wildlife. The most stunning highlight of this region would no doubt be the Southern Scenic Route. This amazing driving experience will take you through some of the most picturesque, yet quaint towns that you could find in New Zealand. The quiet seaside village of Taieri Mouth offers a pleasant experience where you can simply sit back, relax and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of seaside living.

A little further down the beaten track, you will come across the lakeside town of Waihola and the beauty of Milton. The towns are just stunning and will simply take your breath away. The highlight of the route would have to be the town of Balclutha, which is essentially the gateway to the Caitlins and the South Coast. However, this is a whole different experience and one that you should spend another entire campervan holiday on!

The Otago region of New Zealand makes for the ultimate campervans New Zealand adventure. There are countless places to stay and with a new and fresh town basically around every corner, you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing what places to explore in depth. The Otago experience will cement itself in your collection of happy memories and will stay with you forever!

Christine Barton