Between the towering Aoraki Mount Cook and the mystical Moeraki Boulders lies a world of thrilling adventures, award-winning hospitality, and wild beauty.

While Waitaki is home to New Zealand’s longest and most stunning cycle trail – Alps 2 Ocean – this magnificent landscape is an unforgettable road trip. Whether you start from Dunedin (90 minutes’ drive away) or Christchurch (a scenic three-and-a-half-hour drive), your camera and walking shoes will be your most essential companions.

Take the scenic route off State Highway 1 to the historic coastal town of Ōamaru – known for its historic Victorian precinct. You’ll find award-winning restaurants and cafés throughout where you can fuel up for a ride on a real Penny Farthing, dive deep into history at the Waitaki Museum or Whitestone City, then relish in the downtime wandering through galleries and boutiques.

If you’re a Bougie Foodie, drop in for a tipple at Kurow. This unique wine region is known for its award-winning wines and rich, limestone soil. Cosy up with a Pinot Noir at VALLI’s Wine Bar or stroll along the vines at River T Wines. Try delectable wine pairings and share plates at Cucina or The Criterion, or indulge in comfort food with a twist at Whitestone Cheese Diner & Deli.

For an experience to rest and recharge, book into a glamping retreat. Wake up in a treehouse, a dome, or a lakeside chalet, before enjoying a morning brew at a café. Valley Views Glamping has just been placed in TripAdvisor’s Best of the Best Awards, placing them in the top one per cent of hotels worldwide. Escape to their domes overlooking the Hakataramea Valley, enjoy a rustic home-cooked meal from your hosts, then draw a long, hot bath in the forest to get away from it all.

If you’re after the refined elegance of historic accommodation, spend a night in the first stone dwelling in Ōamaru, Casa Nova House, or stargaze to your heart’s content at Pen-y-bryn, a Victorian-era masterpiece. For the ultimate indulgence, book a weekend at The Lindis, a luxury resort nestled in the heart of the Ahuriri Valley. While you’re there, why not angle in the Ahuriri River, horse trek around the Ben Avon Station, or climb to the top for panoramic views and a chef-made sharing menu as part of The Black Diamond Signature Experience.

If you’re an active adventurer, spend some time in the Waitaki Valley. Get the bike ready for the Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail – from the Southern Alps to the Pacific Ocean, it’s an epic journey for any discerning adventurer. Whether you decide to do all of it or just sections of it, rent an e-bike or bring your own two wheels, you’re sure to pass through stunning views and the most intriguing townships.

Hike to the top of Kurow Hill for breathtaking views of the Waitaki River, or take the family on a stroll across wetlands, forests, or along Benmore Peninsula. Recover those muscles with a soak at the Ōmārama Hot Tubs, then indulge in retail therapy at Whistle + Pop or Jessica Flora along Kurow’s Main Street.

However you like to wander, you can do it in Waitaki. Head to waitakinz.com/itineraries for a tailor-made winter adventure.

A place to wander in the heart of winter