What to do there
Otago is a multi-faceted area that abounds in recreational opportunities, from skiing or snowboarding on some of the world’s best mountains to its beautiful ever-changing landscapes. There are adrenaline rushes galore – from jet boating through the Shotover River to the world famous AJ Hackett bungee. Or try your hand at gold panning - you never know your luck.
Fantastic food is available in this region as the local produce is wonderful and fresh, from many varieties of fruit and vegetables to local meats and fish. Wine has become one of Central Otago's latest claims to fame and many of the well-respected wineries of this region offer tastings throughout the summer. Central Otago has many river basins and deep river gorges which are great for whitewater rafting. The towns of Alexandra, Clyde, Cromwell, Roxburgh and Ranfurly are steeped in history and there are many reminders of the gold rush days. Alexandra, the main town on the Clutha River, is the centre for stone fruit, particularly golden apricots. Hydro-electric dams have been constructed along the Clutha River and these have formed Lake Roxburgh and Lake Dunstan, which now offer a range of recreational opportunities, from power boating and fishing to windsurfing and sailing. Starting in the west, the geography of Otago consists of high alpine mountains. The highest peak in Otago is Mount Aspiring/Tititea, which is on the Main Divide.
From the high mountains the rivers discharge into large glacial lakes. Lakes Wakatipu, Wanaka and Hawea form the sources of the Clutha, the largest river (by discharge) in New Zealand. The Clutha flows through Otago and discharges near Balclutha. Water sports activities are at their best here.
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