Arrowtown is a charming historic town located in the Otago region of New Zealand’s South Island, about 20 minutes’ drive from Queenstown.
Known for it’s well-preserved 19th-century buildings, it offers a glimpse into the country’s gold rush era. The town sits alongside the Arrow River, where gold prospectors once panned for gold.
What makes Arrowtown unforgettable?
Step back in time and explore the charming, historic town of Arrowtown, a preserved gem from the gold rush era. Wander along quaint streets lined with over 70 heritage buildings.Arrowtown's gold rush started in the 1860s when gold was discovered in the Arrow River. People from all over the world came to try their luck, turning the small village into a bustling town. The streets were filled with miners, shops, and businesses catering to their needs. Today, Arrowtown preserves this history with old buildings and museums, offering a glimpse into the exciting days of the gold rush. Visitors can walk along the historic streets and imagine what life was like during that adventurous time.
Historic Main Street
Eating out in Arrowtown
A Culinary Adventure
Arrowtown, with its charming streets and rich gold rush history, is more than just a picturesque destination – it’s a culinary hotspot waiting to be explored.
From Cozy cafes to elegant restaurants, eating out in Arrowtown offers an unforgettable experience that combines exceptional food, warm hospitality, and the towns unique heritage.
Fresh, Local Ingredients
One of the highlights of eating out in Arrowtown is the emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Many of the town’s restaurants and cafes are committed to showcasing the best the region’s produce, from tender meats to vibrant vegetables and artisanal cheeses. The dedication to quality and sustainability ensures that every meal is not only delicious but also a true tase of Central Otago.
A Destination for Food and Wine Lovers
With Arrowtown’s close proximity to some of New Zealand’s best vineyards, many restaurants offer an impressive selection of local wines to pair with your meal. Wine enthusiasts can Savor the renowned Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays of Central Otago, expertly matched with dishes that highlight the region’s culinary prowess. Food and wine pairing menus, special tasting events, and seasonal promotions further enhance the dining experience, making Arrowtown a must-visit for any foodie.
Trail Biking
Arrowtown is surrounded by beautiful cycling trails, including the Queenstown Trail. Great riding from Arrowtown, with hire shops to help you.
Arrowtown is a main get-on get-off hub on the famous 110 km Queenstown Trail. There are world class rides past mountains, lakes and rivers. Several of New Zealand’s most attractive bike trails depart from Arrowtown.
Trail maps are available at the Museum in Buckingham Street and can also be downloaded from www.queenstowntrail.co.nz.
Many of Arrowtown’s walking trails are also cycling trails.
You can start and finish your biking adventure in Arrowtown, or else base yourself here for a few days to sample more. Options include a gentle road ride around the historic town, a fast and steep single track, or a relaxing ride along the purpose-built Queenstown Trail mountain bike track.
Arrowtown is bicycle friendly with bike services provided by Better By Bike.
The popular Lake Hayes Loop leads through Millbrook Resort. With cafes and art galleries along the way, you can make this scenic 16 km ride a full day adventure. Lake Hayes is quite shallow and provides the region’s warmest swimming – its sandy beach and shaded parkland at the Arrowtown end of the lake, is a popular place for cyclists to take a dip and picnic.
Ride the spectacular and purpose-built Arrow River Bridges Trail to Gibbston Valley and the Kawarau Bungy Bridge. On this great family ride either try an easy distance or cycle the full 12 kilometres. There are a number of guided, self-guided and transport options available to explore the vineyards further or splash out on a bungy jump.
Many trails are dual cycling/walking. Visit the walking tracks page, look up The Maps and Walking Guides, and the Queenstown Trail maps, or call in to the Lakes District Museum in Arrowtown for more information.
Bring friends or bring the family - there’s a great bike ride waiting for you in Arrowtown, 12 months of the year.
Autumn Colours
Arrowtown is renowned for its vibrant autumn foliage, attracting visitors from around the world to enjoy the spectacular scenery. The Arrowtown Autumn Festival, an annual celebration highlighting the vibrant beauty and rich heritage of Arrowtown, New Zealand. Set during the peak of autumn, this delightful festival offers a week filled with events like live music, parades, market stalls, and art exhibitions. Enjoy the stunning autumn leaves, delve into local culture, and experience the community's warm hospitality. Perfect for locals and tourists alike, the Arrowtown Autumn Festival combines entertainment, tradition, and the breathtaking scenery of one of New Zealand's most picturesque towns.
Chinese Settlement
Discover the Arrowtown Chinese Village, a captivating historic site that offers a glimpse into the lives of Chinese gold miners who settled in the area during the 19th century. Nestled along the Arrow River, this preserved village features traditional huts and artifacts that tell the story of the miners' resilience and cultural heritage. Walking through the village, visitors can explore the restored buildings and learn about the challenges and contributions of the Chinese community in Arrowtown's rich history. The Arrowtown Chinese Village is a unique cultural experience that provides a fascinating window into a significant chapter of New Zealand's past.
Wineries
Internationally recognised as the home of the world’s best Pinot Noir, Queenstown is the home of over 75 wineries. Savor a curated selection of finest wines in a guided tasting session, perfectly paired with local delicacies. A winery visit is not just a taste sensation but a cultural and sensory experience, perfect for wine enthusiasts and those seeking a serene escape into the world of fine wine and stunning landscapes.
Museum
Housed in the historic building, this museum offers an in-depth look at the region’s history, focusing on the gold rush era, early Maori settlement, and European pioneers. It includes interactive displays, artifacts, and exhibits. Gold rush exhibits,Maori history, Victorian-era displays, A gallery featuring local art, and educational programs.
Bungy Jump
From fear to freedom in seconds. The rush of freefalling and the subsequent rebound as the cord snaps back creates an unforgettable experience. Whether from a bridge, cliff, or purpose-built tower, bungy jumping offers a unique blend of fear and excitement that leaves adventurers with an unparalleled sense of accomplishment. AJ Hackett Bungy offers a range of adrenaline-pumping activities, including bungy jumps, swings, and ziplines, at various scenic locations around the Wakatipu Basin.
Skiing
Gliding through a winter wonderland. Queenstown in the wintertime is synonymous with skiing and snowboarding. From late June through until September the mountains come alive with keen skiers and snowboarders tackling the slopes. The closest ski area is Coronet Peak, learn to ski or explore the epic terrain off-piste. Basing yourself in Arrowtown opens up other possibilities for exploring the slopes at Cardrona Alpine Resort, Treble Cone or The Remarkables. For a truly awesome winter ski experience heli-skiing is a must-do.
Very quiet and meticulously maintained motel in a residential neighborhood of Arrowtown but only several minutes from city centre of Arrowtown and 20 minutes from the expense and congestion of Queenstown. For us, this site was the way to go and we are glad we chose this lodging. There were plenty of places to eat in Arrowtown, and still enjoy what there was to offer in the Queenstown region.
We had a lovely stay at the Arrowtown Motels, lovely clean room that was cosy and warm when we arrived. Well equipped and had everything we needed. Location was within walking distance to town and the local four square nice and handy a few doors down. Catherine was lovely to deal with and very accommodating. Would love to come and stay again 😊
There was ample parking room, lavish décor, and a much-welcomed air conditioner. We had a private balcony area which was open when we arrived, so the room was pleasantly cool. Reception trusted us with the key to the laundry after hours. Everything felt spacious and a bit decadent, only partly because our previous stay was at a backpackers.