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Otago

Otago region is located in the lower South Island of New Zealand. The capital of this region is Dunedin. The Otago region boasts the stunning Southern Lakes District with its capital Queenstown and Central Otago with its renowned Goldfields. Another treasure found in the Otago region is the Pinot Noir wine, which can be sampled at many of the wineries in the area.

With a population of just under 200,000 Otago is one of the least populated regions in New Zealand. The people are not in a hurry down here, it is safe, friendly and without worries. The locals like to work hard and play hard but also relax with plenty of free time. Otago is a great place to bring the family with numerous year round activities for everyone.

Dunedin is the capital of the region and home of New Zealands first University. Dunedin, Celtic for New Edinburgh, was founded by Scottish settlers in the late 1800's. The town was built in the Victorian style from the wealth that came out of the Otago Goldmines. Near Dunedin is the Otago Peninsula with its treasure trove of marine wildlife. Here you can see Sea Lions, Penguins, Albatross, Seals and many other species up close.

Queenstown and the Southern Lakes District is widely known as the adventure capital of the world, with an almost unlimited range of activities to choose from bungy jumping, skiing, snowboarding, water sports, hunting, tramping or golf, are to name but a few.

Otago also has a wide range of walking tracks from short walks to the internationally renowned Routburn and Rees-Dart tracks. There is also plenty of room for mountain biking or horse trekking throughout the region. The towns of Alexandra, Clyde, Cromwell, Roxburgh and Ranfurly are ideal bases from which to explore the surrounding historic countryside.

For those who prefer the slower pace there are many different museums in Otago to give you an insight into our colourful history.

The region of Otago has a superb range of accommodation to suit all tastes. Hotels, holiday houses, homestays, farmstays, apartments, bed and breakfast, cottages, lodges, from budget to five star, there is something here for everyone.

Otago is a must see for all those travelling in New Zealand. Experience it for yourself.